Deepavali 2026

Learn about Deepavali 2026 in Singapore, including its date, history, significance, observances, activities, and long weekend.

Deepavali

Monday, November 9, 2026 Public Holiday

This is a public holiday. Most schools, banks, and government offices may be closed.

Overview

Deepavali is Singapore's Hindu Festival of Lights and a public holiday. It celebrates light over darkness and good over evil through worship, family gatherings, illuminated homes, colorful floor designs, festive food, and community events.

Also known as: Diwali; Festival of Lights
Observed by: Singapore
Type: Public Holiday
Celebrations: Temple worship, Oil lamps, Rangoli, Little India lights
2026 Date: Monday, November 9, 2026

Explore the day

A closer look at Deepavali

Light Across Singapore Deepavali is a gazetted public holiday in Singapore celebrating light over darkness and good over evil. Shaped by Tamil and other Hindu communities, the festival is observed through temples, homes, and associations. While stories and rituals vary across regions, light commonly symbolizes knowledge, hope, and the victory of good over evil. Read the history Temple, Home, and Little India Families celebrate through temple worship, oil lamps, and colorful rangoli floor patterns to symbolize welcome and auspiciousness. People wear new clothes and visit relatives to share sweets and savory dishes. In Little India, street decorations, markets, and cultural shows create a public festival atmosphere alongside private family and temple observances. See the traditions Festive Activities and Sights Visitors can explore the Little India light-up, featuring markets and cultural programs. You can see community rangoli art displays, visit temples respectfully by dressing modestly, and try sweets and savory dishes from established vendors. Together, these public displays, foods, and places show how the festival is expressed across Singapore. Explore ideas

Related Holidays

View all holidays in November

Common questions

Deepavali FAQ

Clear answers about the date, meaning, and observance.

When is Deepavali in 2026?

Deepavali in 2026 is Monday, November 9, 2026.

Are Deepavali and Diwali the same festival?

Yes. The names are regional forms used for the Hindu Festival of Lights.

Why does Deepavali move each year?

Its date is determined by a Hindu lunisolar calendar and therefore changes on the Gregorian calendar.

Where can visitors experience Deepavali in Singapore?

Little India hosts prominent lights, markets, and public programs; temples and community venues also publish events.

How should visitors behave at a Hindu temple?

Dress modestly, remove footwear where requested, avoid interrupting worship, and follow local photography guidance.