Diwali 2026 will be on Sunday, November 8, while Diwali 2027 is expected on Friday, October 29. During the festival season, Delhi becomes a city of lights, devotion and festivity. Homes, temples and markets glow with diyas and decorative lights, while the air is filled with excitement and the aroma of festive sweets. If you are planning to spend Diwali in Delhi, get ready for a memorable experience — from grand aartis to bustling markets and beautiful night views.
Here are the top 5 things to do in Delhi during Diwali 2026 and 2027 to make your celebration unforgettable.
Overview of Diwali
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the biggest and most celebrated festivals in India. The word “Deepavali” means “a row of lights,” and the festival is about light winning over darkness and good over evil.
People celebrate Diwali by lighting diyas (oil lamps), decorating homes, exchanging sweets and, where local regulations permit, bursting firecrackers. It’s also a time to worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
The festival lasts for five days, with each day having its own significance:
- Dhanteras – Marks the beginning of Diwali; people buy gold, silver or utensils for good luck.
- Chhoti Diwali (Narak Chaturdashi) – Celebrated with small lights and decorations before the main day.
- Main Diwali Day (Lakshmi Puja) – The most important day to worship and light diyas.
- Govardhan Puja – Celebrates Lord Krishna’s protection of people from natural disasters.
- Bhai Dooj – Honors the bond between brothers and sisters.
Across India, Diwali brings families together, renews friendships and spreads happiness. Cities like Delhi, Jaipur and Varanasi are lit up with beautiful lights and festive markets, making it a great time for locals and tourists. Don’t miss our other post: How to Celebrate Diwali in India.
5 Best Things to Do During Diwali Festival
1. Attend Grand Aartis at Temples
What makes it special:
During Diwali, temples in Delhi are filled with devotional songs, flower decorations, and thousands of glowing diyas. The aartis (prayer ceremonies) permeate the air with beautiful, positive energy and serenity. Watching the aarti is one of the most spiritual and cultural experiences one can have.
Where to go:
- Akshardham Temple – Noteworthy for its evening ceremonies and scheduled light-and-sound presentations.
- Birla Mandir (Laxminarayan Temple) – Known for its lovely lighting and festival decoration.
- ISKCON Temple, East of Kailash – A good place for bhajans and spirituality. Also, check out the best places to visit this Diwali season.
Tips for visitors:
- Try to arrive early to avoid the crowds and confirm festival opening hours before visiting.
- Dress traditionally and bring a scarf if you are planning to visit several temples.
- Please do not bring large bags and be advised security is very tight during the festivals.
2. Shop and Stroll in Delhi’s Famous Diwali Markets
What makes it special:
During Diwali, Delhi’s local markets are a shopper’s dream come true. In the weeks leading up to the main festival day, the streets are filled with diyas, lanterns, sweets, and handmade decorations. Seasonal promotions also add excitement to shopping.
Where to go:
- Chandni Chowk – great to shop for traditional decor, diyas, and sweets.
- Sarojini Nagar & Lajpat Nagar – great for festive outfits and festive accessories.
- Dilli Haat – great for handmade crafts, lighting, and home decor.
Tips for visitors:
- Go in the morning or early evening to miss the worst of the crowds.
- Bring cash because smaller vendors may not accept cards.
- Try some local snacks while you are there as well, such as jalebi or samosa.
3. Enjoy Diwali Lights at India Gate and Connaught Place
What makes it special:
Delhi feels magical during Diwali, especially near India Gate, Kartavya Path, and Connaught Place (CP). Seasonal lighting varies each year, and people visit the area to gather, eat, listen to music, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Where to go:
- India Gate – Enjoy the evening atmosphere around this landmark and the surrounding Central Vista, subject to access controls.
- Connaught Place – A center of festive lights with shops and restaurant specials based on Diwali.
- Rashtrapati Bhavan area – Admire the grand architecture and any seasonal illumination visible from public areas.
Tips for visitors:
- The best time to view festive lighting is generally after sunset.
- Consider taking the metro or taxi, because parking around India Gate is limited.
- Bring a camera to record the skyline aglow.
4. Relish Delhi’s Diwali Food Festivals
What makes it special:
Food is the soul of Diwali and Delhi has it all – traditional sweets to gourmet feasts. In the days and weeks around Diwali, many restaurants and hotels may host Diwali food festivals with festive thalis, desserts and fusion dishes.
Where to go:
- Paranthe Wali Gali (Chandni Chowk) – Try traditional snacks and sweets like jalebi, gujiya and kachori.
- ITC Maurya, Taj Palace and The Leela – Check for seasonal Diwali dining menus and dessert selections.
- Dilli Haat – Regional Indian food in a festive setting.
Tips for visitors:
- Book in advance at top restaurants and confirm their current festive menus.
- Don’t miss out on kaju katli, soan papdi and motichoor laddoo.
- Stay hydrated and choose busy, hygienic food stalls when trying street food.
Check out our Diwali food menu ideas packed with festive flavors, classic recipes, and modern twists on traditional dishes.
5. Take a Festive Night Tour of Delhi
What makes it special:
Delhi’s neighborhoods sparkle during the Diwali season. Take a guided night tour and experience the city safely and comfortably. Depending on opening hours, access restrictions and annual decorations, you can see illuminated monuments, streets and festive displays.
Where to go:
- Qutub Minar – Atmospheric in the evening; confirm current entry hours before visiting.
- India Gate and Central Vista – A must see for light lovers.
- Gurudwara Bangla Sahib – Calm and divine during the Diwali season.
Tips for visitors:
- Hire a trusted cab or book a group night tour.
- Keep your valuables safe and stay in well lit areas.
- End your night with a cup of chai at a local stall near CP or India Gate.
Conclusion
Diwali in Delhi is not just a festival — it’s an experience full of light, laughter, and togetherness. From glowing markets to peaceful temples and yummy food, the city has it all.
Whether you are a tourist or a Delhiite, these 5 things to do in Delhi during Diwali 2026 and 2027 will help you enjoy the festival like never before.
FAQs About Diwali 2026 and 2027
The main Diwali festival — also known as Lakshmi Puja — falls on Sunday, November 8, 2026. In 2027, it is expected on Friday, October 29, 2027.
Diwali follows the Hindu lunar calendar, so travelers should confirm local temple calendars and event schedules before making plans.
For Diwali 2026, plan around November 8, while the main celebration in 2027 is expected around October 29.
Arriving several days before the main festival provides time to explore decorated markets, attend seasonal events and account for holiday crowds or transport changes.
What is the time of Lakshmi Puja during Diwali 2026 and 2027?
The Lakshmi Puja muhurat generally falls during the evening Pradosh Kaal on the main Diwali day.
The precise time depends on the year and location. Check a current Delhi panchang or consult the temple you plan to visit for the confirmed local timing.
On the main Diwali day, people perform Lakshmi Puja, light diyas, decorate their homes, exchange sweets and spend time with family.
Visitors should expect busy markets, heavier evening traffic and possible access controls near major temples and public landmarks.
The main festival observed on November 8, 2026, and expected on October 29, 2027, is Diwali, the festival of lights. It is among India’s most important festivals and represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
People throughout India and in communities around the world celebrate with diyas, sweets, prayers and family gatherings.
Diwali is celebrated all over India and in countries with Indian communities — for example, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, the UK, and the USA.
In India, nearly every state has a different way of celebrating it. The north of India, including Delhi, commonly associates it with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, while many communities in the south commemorate Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura.
The festival of Diwali helps bring families, neighbors and communities together to celebrate light and happiness.
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, is generally observed one day before the main Diwali celebration. It is expected around Saturday, November 7, 2026 and Thursday, October 28, 2027.
Observance can vary by region and lunar-calendar tradition, so confirm the local Delhi calendar closer to your visit.
