ELL’s guide to celebrating Diwali in South London

Collage showing Diwali festivities. Pic: Krisha Valia

As the vibrant Festival of Lights approaches, communities across the city are preparing to celebrate Diwali in grand style. Whether you’re looking for cultural performances or delicious Indian feasts, there’s no shortage of exciting events to light up your Diwali festivities.

Diwali will be celebrated this year on October 31 and November 1 this year. 

To mark this joyous occasion, Eastlondonlines presents a curated list of exciting Diwali events happening across the ELL boroughs, ensuring you can immerse yourself in the festivities and experience the magic of this special time. 

Lewisham 

Diwali party at Babur 

Join Babur’s candlelit party with Bollywood dance performances and a ‘Diwali Special’ tasting menu. 

When: Wednesday, October 30

Where: Babur, 119 Brockley Rise, Forest Hill, London SE23 1JP

Cost: £60.00 

Book here 

Blackheath Diwali Celebrations

Blackheath Halls is hosting an array of celebrations, including classical dance performances, Bollywood music, and traditional Indian food. 

When: Saturday, October 26 (please note that bookings close on October 18) 

Where: Great Hall, Blackheath 

Cost: £60, £30 U18’s 

Book here 

Croydon 

Diwali and Govardhan Puja celebrations 

Celebrate Diwali with Krishna Avanti School for an evening filled with prayers, cultural performances, and Diwali rituals. 

When: Saturday, November 2 

Where: Krishna Avanti Primary School, Croydon 

Cost: Free 

Book here 

Tower Hamlets 

Diwali with Kricket 

Kricket welcomes you to its Diwali Party, complete with music, henna artists, Indian food, bottomless Chai, and a unique piece of Diwali inspired artwork for you to take home, designed by Natasha Kumar. 

When: Saturday, November 2 

Where: Kricket at Canary Wharf

Cost: £30, £15 U18’s 

Book here 

Diwali inspired exhibit 

Artist Saroj Patel explores Indian myths and astrology through her artwork, for which she uses sari fabrics, beads, bells etc.to bring her piece together.  

When: Saturday, October 26 to Monday, November 4 

Where: Jubilee Place, Level -1, Canary Wharf 

Cost: Free 

Hackney 

Deeva D’s divine Diwali 

Come celebrate Diwali with Bollywood dancing, drag, Burlesque. Deeva D’s party is a chance to enjoy the festival, and learn about Diwali. 

When: Tuesday, November 5 

Where: The Divine, 33-35 Stoke Newington Road

Cost: starting from £12 

Restrictions: 18+ only 

Book here 

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