Diwali is the five-day festival of lights, celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists across the world. This year Diwali begins on Tuesday 2 November, with the main day of celebrations taking place on Thursday 4 November.
The word Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word deepavali, meaning "rows of lighted lamps". It is a festival of new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. Stretching beyond cultures and religions, Diwali celebrates the vision of oneness and of unity in the midst of diversity.
Here’s some ideas to celebrate Diwali 2021.
In London, the annual Diwali on Trafalgar Square celebration took place on Saturday 23 October. You can watch a replay of the live-streamed celebrations.
This weekend, Saturday 30 to Sunday 31 October, you can visit the Museum of the Home for their Diwali Family Weekend with rangoli and diya making, dancing, and storytelling.
Greenwich's National Maritime Museum will be hosting a free Diwali event this Sunday, 31 October, including Stories of Light, lantern making, and a lantern parade.
Head to Byron Park in Harrow next Saturday, 6 November, for a combined Bonfire Night and Diwali celebration. There will be a Diwali dance performance, Diwali art and henna tattoos, as well as a funfair, bar, face-painting and firework display.
Here are some easy Diwali decoration ideas that you could use to light up and decorate your home during the festivities.
Greenwich’s National Maritime Museum also shares craft activities from artist Meera Chauda to celebrate the festival of light. Make a rangoli decoration or a Diwali lantern.
Desserts and Diwali go hand in hand. Traditionally called mithai, sweets are enjoyed as a small gesture of joy. Why not try to make your own sweet treats to enjoy throughout the celebrations.
We wish those observing the festival this year a very safe and healthy Diwali!