Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most significant celebrations for Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide, and its impact is strongly felt in the UK. With over 1.5 million Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains living in the country, Diwali has become a widely celebrated festival, drawing people from all walks of life to experience its vibrant and joyous atmosphere. Leicester, known for hosting one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India, attracts more than 40,000 people annually to its famous Golden Mile for the light switch-on ceremony. In London, Diwali celebrations at iconic locations like Trafalgar Square bring in up to 35,000 attendees, showcasing the festival’s growing popularity and multicultural appeal.
The UK’s rich and diverse Diwali celebrations are not just about tradition; they also bring a significant boost to local economies, especially in cities like Leicester and London, where Diwali-related events generate millions of pounds in revenue from tourism, hospitality, and retail. With a mixture of cultural performances, religious ceremonies, and stunning light displays, the UK offers some of the most memorable and inclusive Diwali experiences outside of South Asia.
Best Places to Celebrate Diwali in the UK 2025
1. Leicester: The Diwali Capital of the UK
When it comes to Diwali celebrations, Leicester undoubtedly holds the crown. Leicester’s Diwali festivities are renowned as some of the largest outside of India, attracting tens of thousands of visitors from all over the country. The city’s famous Golden Mile, located on Belgrave Road, transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights, colors, and sounds during the Diwali season.
Highlights:
- Switch-On of the Lights: The Diwali lights switch-on event in Leicester is one of the key attractions, typically taking place two weeks before Diwali. Thousands gather on Belgrave Road to witness the ceremonial lighting, followed by fireworks, performances, and food stalls.
- Diwali Day: On the day of Diwali, the Golden Mile comes alive with cultural performances, music, dance, and an impressive firework display, lighting up the night sky. The celebrations often include a funfair and food stalls serving a variety of traditional Indian snacks and sweets.
- Community Spirit: Leicester’s celebration is a fantastic example of community cohesion, where people from all faiths come together to enjoy the festivities, making it a truly inclusive event.
2. London: A Multicultural Diwali Extravaganza
As the UK’s capital and a melting pot of cultures, London offers a wide range of Diwali events catering to different tastes. From the bustling streets of Southall, known for its vibrant South Asian community, to prestigious locations such as Trafalgar Square, London’s Diwali celebrations offer something for everyone.
Highlights:
- Trafalgar Square Diwali: Trafalgar Square hosts a large Diwali celebration that is open to all. The event features performances of classical Indian dance, Bollywood numbers, live music, and cultural showcases. Attendees can also enjoy food stalls, craft activities, and light displays.
- Southall: Southall, often referred to as “Little India,” is one of the best places in London for Diwali shopping and celebrations. The streets are adorned with colorful decorations, and the local shops offer everything from Diwali sweets to traditional clothing. Many temples in the area also host special prayers and events.
- Neasden Temple: The magnificent Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden is an iconic venue for Diwali celebrations in London. Known as the largest Hindu temple outside India, it hosts spectacular Diwali and Annakut (offering of food to the deities) celebrations. The temple’s ornate decorations, lights, and cultural programs draw in large crowds from across the UK.
3. Birmingham: Diwali in the Heart of the Midlands
Birmingham, one of the UK’s largest cities with a significant South Asian population, hosts elaborate Diwali celebrations every year. The city’s bustling Soho Road is a hotspot for Diwali festivities, with a rich atmosphere of music, dance, and traditional food.
Highlights:
- Soho Road Diwali Event: Soho Road Business Improvement District (BID) organizes a grand Diwali light switch-on ceremony, where the entire area is illuminated with beautiful lights. The celebrations include live performances, music, and dance acts. A highlight is the variety of food stalls offering delicious Indian cuisine.
- Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery: Each year, the museum hosts Diwali-themed workshops and exhibitions, focusing on the cultural significance of the festival, especially for children and families.
- Spiritual Celebrations: Birmingham’s many temples, including the Shree Ram Mandir and Balaji Temple, offer religious ceremonies, prayers, and traditional festivities. These events often include fireworks, cultural shows, and delicious feasts.
4. Manchester: A City of Lights and Culture
Manchester, with its growing South Asian community, also offers a vibrant Diwali celebration. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as Rusholme, known for its “Curry Mile,” come alive during Diwali with beautiful decorations and festive events.
Highlights:
- Diwali at Albert Square: The city’s Diwali lights are switched on in a grand event, usually held at Albert Square. The celebration features live music, dance performances, and a spectacular fireworks display. Cultural workshops and storytelling sessions add to the rich atmosphere.
- Rusholme: Rusholme, famous for its South Asian restaurants, becomes a hive of activity during Diwali. The area’s shops offer special Diwali treats, and many restaurants prepare traditional Indian sweets and festive dishes for the occasion.
- Cultural Events: Manchester also hosts several Diwali-themed cultural events at venues such as The Whitworth and the Manchester Museum, where visitors can experience traditional arts and crafts, dances, and storytelling.
5. Glasgow: Diwali in Scotland
Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, may not be the first place that comes to mind for Diwali celebrations, but it has an active and growing South Asian community that puts on a range of cultural and religious events for the festival.
Highlights:
- Glasgow City Chambers: Diwali celebrations in Glasgow are often centered around George Square and the City Chambers, where a grand light switch-on event takes place. The event typically includes Bollywood dancing, traditional music, and fireworks.
- The Hindu Mandir in Glasgow: This temple is the heart of religious Diwali celebrations in the city. Special prayers, ceremonies, and community meals are organized, bringing together people from across Glasgow to mark the festival.
6. Cardiff: Diwali in the Welsh Capital
Cardiff has become an increasingly popular destination for Diwali celebrations, with the city hosting a variety of events to mark the festival. From public events to religious gatherings, Cardiff provides a welcoming environment for all those looking to celebrate Diwali in Wales.
Highlights:
- Diwali on the Hayes: The Cardiff city center becomes a focal point of Diwali celebrations, with cultural performances, workshops, and activities for families. The vibrant event showcases dance, music, and food, drawing in people from across Wales.
- Hindu Cultural Association: Cardiff’s temples and community centers also play a significant role in organizing Diwali events, offering prayers, traditional food, and family-friendly activities.
READ ALSO: 25 Best Diwali Gift Ideas for Employees in 2025
Conclusion
Diwali celebrations in the UK are a rich blend of tradition, culture, and community spirit. From Leicester’s famous Golden Mile to the lively streets of London, there are numerous ways to experience the joy and light of Diwali. Whether you’re drawn to grand firework displays, traditional temple ceremonies, or cultural performances, the UK offers an incredible array of Diwali celebrations for everyone to enjoy. No matter where you are, celebrating Diwali in the UK is sure to be a memorable experience filled with lights, laughter, and festivity.