Best place to celebrate Diwali with friends and family

Diwali, also called Deepavali, is the Festival of Lights and one of the most joyful times of the year. In Singapore, Diwali is not just an Indian celebration—it is a multicultural event that brings people of all backgrounds together. Beautiful lights, colourful outfits, traditional food, and exciting activities fill the city. But where are the best places to celebrate Diwali in Singapore?

Whether you're planning a family dinner, a cultural outing, or a grand party, this guide covers the best Diwali venues in Singapore, famous Indian festival locations, and the most loved Diwali restaurants for a memorable celebration.

What Makes a Great Diwali Celebration?

Before choosing where to go, let’s understand what makes Diwali so special. The celebration is all about light, joy, and togetherness. People decorate their homes with oil lamps (diyas), dress up in traditional clothes, exchange sweets, and enjoy delicious food with loved ones.

A great Diwali celebration includes:

Beautiful decorations and lights
Traditional Indian food and sweets
Music, dance, and cultural performances
A warm and welcoming environment

In Singapore, you can find all these elements in different Diwali venues, from vibrant public spaces to cozy family-friendly restaurants.

Akasa – One of the Best Diwali Restaurants in Singapore

When it comes to Diwali dining, few places match the elegance and taste of Akasa. Known for its fine Indian dining, Akasa offers a complete Diwali experience—from royal interiors to festive menus.

Why Akasa Is a Top Pick:

Serves festive thalis, tandoori platters, and traditional sweets
Offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
Provides private event spaces for family or office Diwali parties
Known for its royal décor and Indian sweets

If you're looking for the best Diwali restaurants that offer both luxury and tradition, Akasa is a must-visit.

Little India – The Heart of Diwali in Singapore

If there’s one place that defines the spirit of Diwali in Singapore, it’s Little India. Every year, Serangoon Road and Race Course Road light up with stunning arches, colourful lights, and festive decorations. This area transforms into one of the most visited Indian festival locations during the Diwali season.

What to Do in Little India:

Walk under the Deepavali light-up arches
Shop at Diwali bazaars for clothes, sweets, and gifts
Visit the Indian Heritage Centre for Diwali-themed exhibitions
Try authentic Indian street food at Tekka Centre
Take photos with stunning light displays

Little India is the go-to place for cultural vibes, and it's perfect for locals and tourists alike who want to experience the true essence of Diwali.

Community Centres – Celebrate with Locals

During the Diwali season, many community clubs and centres across Singapore host public celebrations. These are ideal Diwali venues in Singapore for those who want to join in a neighbourhood celebration.

What You’ll Find:

Rangoli-making competitions
Henna art booths
Diwali music and dance performances
Food stalls and festive games
Workshops for kids and families

These events are often free and open to all, making them perfect for new residents and expats looking to connect with the local Indian community.

Indian Heritage Centre – Dive into Diwali History and Culture

Located in Little India, the Indian Heritage Centre is a must-visit during Diwali. Every year, it hosts exhibitions and workshops that help visitors learn about the roots and customs of the Festival of Lights.

Highlights:

Diwali-themed art installations and displays
Rangoli-making sessions and heritage trails
Cultural storytelling and craft workshops
Evening light displays on the building façade

This is a great spot for families and culture lovers to explore the deeper meaning of Diwali.

Clarke Quay – Celebrate Diwali by the River

For a more modern Diwali vibe, Clarke Quay offers riverside dining and nightlife. During Diwali, many Indian restaurants in this area host special festive menus and light-themed events.

What to Expect:

Festive Indian dinners by the river
Diya lighting and decor in some venues
Diwali-themed DJ nights and live music
Great for young adults and working professionals

A perfect mix of celebration and chill.

Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay (Kalaa Utsavam Festival)

Every year around Diwali, the Esplanade hosts Kalaa Utsavam, a festival of Indian arts that includes music, dance, and drama.

Why It’s Special:

Classical and contemporary Indian performances
Family-friendly shows and workshops
Outdoor Indian art installations
Indian food pop-ups during the festival

It’s a cultural experience and performance showcase that adds richness to your Diwali celebration.

Gardens by the Bay – Light-Up and Cultural Events

While not traditionally associated with Indian festivals, Gardens by the Bay sometimes hosts multicultural events around festive periods like Diwali.

Key Features:

Diwali light installations in the Flower Dome (select years)
Cultural shows and community stalls
Great photo spots with Indian attire
Relaxing space for family walks post-celebration

Check the event calendar around Deepavali for themed activities.

Sentosa – Celebrate Diwali by the Beach

For those who want a unique Diwali experience, Sentosa Island offers beach resorts, private villas, and Indian restaurants perfect for hosting festive dinners.

Celebration Ideas:

Host a Diwali barbecue or beach party
Book a family staycation with catered Indian food
Watch fireworks (if scheduled) while enjoying sweets
Sunset diya lighting at the beach

This is great for those who want a serene yet special Deepavali.

Indian Association Singapore – Community Deepavali Events

The Indian Association often hosts large-scale Diwali dinners and cultural events for members and the public.

Why It’s Worth Checking Out:

Large indoor events with performances and dinner
Indian dress competitions, music, and giveaways
Family-friendly setting with affordable entry
Networking and community spirit

This is ideal for meeting new people while celebrating in a festive, structured setting.

Temples and Indian Religious Centres

Temples play a central role in traditional Diwali celebrations. Some of the most respected Indian festival locations in Singapore include:

Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple (Serangoon Road)
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple (Little India)
Sri Mariamman Temple (Chinatown)

These temples often hold special prayers, oil lamp ceremonies, and community meals. They are peaceful, spiritual spaces to experience the deeper meaning of Diwali.

Diwali Party Venues – Hotels and Event Halls

Planning a grand Diwali party? Many hotels and private halls offer customised Diwali packages. These make for excellent Diwali venues in Singapore when you want to host a large celebration.

Common Features:

Themed décor with lights and flowers
Indian food buffets or set menus
Live DJ or Bollywood music
Dance floor and open mic sessions

You can also consider buffet catering for private events with Indian dishes from Akasa.

Diwali at Home – Make It Personal

If you prefer to celebrate at home, that’s still a great way to enjoy Diwali. You can decorate your home with fairy lights, diyas, and fresh flowers. Invite close friends or family over for a home-cooked or catered meal.

For easy planning:

Order sweets and savouries
Use vegetarian catering services for plant-based guests
Play classic Diwali songs and set up games like bingo or diya painting

This is a great option for small, warm celebrations with personal touches.

Indian Restaurants with Diwali Promotions

Several Indian restaurants in Singapore offer Diwali promotions. Besides Akasa, some others that you may find offering festive menus include:

Punjab Grill

Tandoori Corner

Shahi Maharani

Komala Vilas (for pure vegetarian fare)

Look for early reservations, set menus, and family combos. If you’re dining out, these are some of the best Diwali restaurants in Singapore for different budgets and preferences.

Hotels Offering Diwali Staycations

Some premium hotels offer Diwali staycation packages that include festive meals and themed rooms. It’s a unique way to celebrate Diwali if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary.

What to look for:

Indian dinner buffets
In-room dining with Diwali platters
Light-up views from the room
Cultural entertainment (in select hotels)

Pair this with dining from Akasa for a truly indulgent celebration.

Tips to Choose the Right Diwali Venue in Singapore

Choosing the best Diwali venue in Singapore depends on your needs. Here’s how to make the right choice:

Situation

Suggested Venue

Family Celebration

Akasa or Home with Catering

Cultural Experience

Little India or Temples

Office or Group Party

Hotel Event Hall

Budget Celebration

Community Centre or Local Restaurant

Kid-Friendly Event

Community Club Events

What to Eat at a Diwali Celebration

Food is the heart of Diwali. A typical Diwali meal includes:

Starters

Samosas

Paneer Tikka

Tandoori Kebabs

Main Dishes

Butter Chicken

Palak Paneer

Biryani

Dal Makhani with Naan

Sweets

Gulab Jamun

Kaju Katli

Ladoo

Rasmalai

How to Decorate a Diwali Venue

No matter where you celebrate, décor adds charm to your Diwali. Popular options include:

Oil lamps and tealights
Fairy lights
Rangoli (floor art with colours or flowers)
Marigold garlands
Traditional Indian fabrics for table settings

You can find these items in Little India markets or online.

Family-Friendly Diwali Activities in Singapore

If you’re celebrating Diwali with kids, try these fun activities:

Create Diya lamps with clay
Colour rangoli art sheets
Watch a Bollywood movie
Bake Indian sweets at home
Visit a Diwali carnival at a community club

These simple things make Diwali fun and memorable for the whole family.

Why Singapore Is One of the Best Places to Celebrate Diwali

With its vibrant Indian community, government support for multicultural events, and rich local interest in cultural festivals, Singapore is one of the best places to celebrate Diwali outside India. Here’s why:

Diverse celebration styles – From spiritual to luxurious
Inclusive events – Open to all cultures
Amazing food scene – From fine dining to takeaways
Safe and clean venues – Ideal for families

Whether you’re attending a public event or enjoying a private feast, Diwali in Singapore is truly magical.

Conclusion

Looking for the best place to celebrate Diwali in Singapore? From the bright lights of Little India to the luxurious menus at Akasa, you’re spoiled for choice. Whether you want a grand party or a quiet celebration at home, Singapore has the right venue, food, and atmosphere for your Diwali joy.

Let your Festival of Lights shine bright this year—explore, eat, enjoy, and celebrate together.

Best Place to Celebrate Diwali: Top Diwali Venues, Restaurants, and Festival Spots in Singapore