Date and holiday
- Deepavali 2026: Sunday 8 November 2026.
- Public holiday in lieu: Monday 9 November 2026.
- Long weekend: Saturday 7 to Monday 9 November for most people working Monday to Friday.
Deepavali is one of Singapore's 11 gazetted public holidays. Next year it falls on Thursday 28 October 2027; see our full list of Singapore public holidays for 2027.
What Deepavali means
Deepavali, the festival of lights, is one of the most important festivals for Hindus, and is also observed by many Sikhs and Jains. Its name comes from the Sanskrit for "row of lamps".
It celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. In the South Indian tradition followed by many Singaporean Indians, it marks Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura. In North India, it is linked with Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya, and with Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
How it is celebrated
- Oil lamps (diyas) and lights decorate homes and streets.
- Kolam (rangoli) patterns made of coloured rice, powder or flowers are drawn at entrances to welcome guests and good fortune.
- An oil bath before sunrise on Deepavali morning is a tradition for many Tamil families, followed by new clothes.
- Temple prayers, then visits to family and friends, often as open houses.
- Food: sweets such as murukku, laddu and halwa, and festive meals.
Little India during Deepavali
Singapore's Little India is the heart of the celebrations:
- Street light-ups along Serangoon Road usually run for several weeks around the festival, with a bazaar selling decorations, clothes, flowers and food.
- Shops stay open late in the days before Deepavali.
- Temples, such as Sri Srinivasa Perumal and Sri Veeramakaliamman, hold special prayers.
Expect big crowds, especially on the evenings and weekend before Deepavali. Taking the MRT (Little India and Farrer Park stations) is easier than driving.
For this year's programme, dates and events, check the Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association and Singapore Tourism Board listings.
Etiquette for visitors
- Remove your shoes before entering homes and temples.
- Dress modestly in temples, covering shoulders and knees.
- Ask before photographing people or temple interiors.
- Bring a small gift when visiting a home: sweets, fruit or a box of cookies. Avoid leather gifts and alcohol unless you know the hosts welcome them.
- Wear bright colours if you are invited to celebrate; black and white are traditionally avoided at festive occasions.
- Greet people with "Happy Deepavali".
Haze and weather
Deepavali 2026 falls during a period when Singapore has seen haze. If you plan to spend time outdoors, check the PSI first and see our Singapore haze guide. November also brings the northeast monsoon, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, so carry an umbrella.
Making the most of the long weekend
- Stay in Singapore: visit Little India, join a friend's open house, or enjoy quieter malls and attractions on Monday.
- Short trips: Johor Bahru, Malacca, Bintan and Batam are popular for three-day weekends. Expect heavy traffic at the Causeway and Second Link.
- Further afield: see our top Asia destinations, and book flights early.
Key takeaways
- Deepavali falls on Sunday 8 November 2026; Monday 9 November is a public holiday.
- It is the festival of lights, celebrating good over evil.
- Little India hosts light-ups, a bazaar and temple celebrations.
- Deepavali 2027 falls on Thursday 28 October 2027.