Celebrating Diwali 2025: the festival of lights

Published on 14 Oct 2025

2:1 min estimated read time

by Simon Clark

UEL Staff

Graduate School

Disclaimer: The content on this blog is the opinion of the author and it was correct at the time of writing

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and across the world by millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Its name, derived from the Sanskrit word “Deepavali,” means "rows of lit lamps," symbolising the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

This vibrant festival usually takes place between October and November, depending on the lunar calendar, and spans five days of celebration, each with its own meaning and significance.

Diwali’s date varies from year to year, but it is usually celebrated between October and November.

Diwali celebrations in 2025 begin on Monday, 20 October.

Traditional diya lamps lit during diwali celebration

Diwali traditions and practices

Lighting diyas and candles: The most iconic tradition of Diwali is lighting oil lamps, or diyas, which are placed around homes, in courtyards, and on rooftops to symbolise the victory of light over darkness. Electric lights and candles are also used to decorate homes and public places, creating a festive and luminous atmosphere.

Fireworks and sparklers: Bursting fireworks is a much-loved tradition, symbolising joy and warding off evil spirits. Colourful pyrotechnics light up the night sky during the main Diwali night, while children enjoy sparklers and other small fireworks.

Rangoli: Colourful rangoli designs adorn the entrance of homes during Diwali. Made from powdered colours, flower petals, or rice, rangoli is an artistic expression that is believed to welcome guests and invite good fortune into the home.

Exchanging gifts and sweets: Diwali is a time for giving and sharing. People exchange gifts like clothes, jewellery, sweets, and dry fruits with friends, family, and colleagues. Popular sweets include laddoos, barfis, and kaju katli. It's also a time for sharing meals, hosting parties, and celebrating with loved ones.

Lakshmi Puja: The religious core of Diwali centres around worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, the bringer of wealth and prosperity. Families perform special rituals to honour her, seeking her blessings for the coming year. Prayers are also offered to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

Diwali in London

There's a huge range of Diwali celebrations taking place throughout the city.

Diwali on the Square 2025 is the annual Diwali celebration in Trafalgar Square, open to everyone looking for some fun and colour. It took place this year on 12 October, and will be back next year.

Greenwich Peninsula hosts Diwali on the Peninsula (18 October from 2-7pm) with food, dancing, music and light, as well as a procession and mass dance.