Home > Diwali Festival
Location: Belgrave Road, Golden Mile, Cossington Street Recreation, city centre and other locations
Leicester‘s celebration of Diwali is one of the biggest outside of India with everything from dance, fireworks, food and fashion making it the perfect place to enjoy Diwali. The festival kicks off with the city’s famous lights switch-on and culminates with a glorious fireworks display and entertainment on Diwali Day. There is also a fantastic selection of events taking place around the city during the fortnight.
Sunday 29 October - 3pm – 9pm
Cossington Street Recreation Ground and Belgrave Road
Diwali Leicester festivities begin with the illumination of the Diwali lights along Belgrave Road, marking the 40th anniversary of the switch on event in Leicester. Up to 40,000 people watch the lights switch-on with an evening of entertainment including a vibrant programme of music and dance on the Belgrave Road stage and a fantastic firework display. Don't miss the annual Rangoli exhibition at Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre plus food, stalls and funfair rides in the Diwali Village on Cossington Recreation Ground.
With thanks to our Diwali Leicester sponsors University of Leicester.
Friday 13 October – Sunday 12 November
Belgrave Road
The Diwali Wheel of Light returns to Belgrave Road, adding a sparkling centerpiece and extra excitement to this year's festivities.
Take a ride up to 110 feet, and take in the unparalleled views over the Golden Mile and Leicester City.
Sunday 12 November - 3pm - 9pm
Cossington Street Recreation Ground and Belgrave Road
40th anniversary celebrations continue on the ‘Golden Mile’ for Diwali Day, where visitors can enjoy a programme of music and dance on Belgrave Road’s main stage with an aerial fireworks display. Exciting new additions will be brought to the event by Inspirate with support from Arts Council England. Look out for Ancient Giants roaming the street, rickshaws, lantern processions and live entertainment from multiple stages.
The Diwali Village in Cossington Recreation Ground generously sponsored by Lidl GB will feature, food, stalls, funfair rides, an additional stage with laser show, fire garden display and amazing led light installation from the Canal and River Trust.
Stay tuned for more information on Diwali and other Leicester Festivals taking place during 2023 - make sure you're following on social media:
facebook.com/leicesterfestivals
Take a look at this stunning video of the 2022 Light Switch-on for a taste of the celebrations:
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