Diwali expands globally with more events and brand partnerships

Diwali, the festival of lights, returns this year on October 20 with expanded public events, restaurant offerings and a growing role for brands and retailers in cities from London to San Francisco. The festival, which marks the triumph of light over darkness and is observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and others, will be celebrated with large outdoor gatherings, special menus at restaurants, community dinners and a surge in both traditional and luxury gift purchases.

Organisers and local groups say London will host more celebrations than in past years, with Diwali On the Square, a free central London festival of music, dance, workshops and family activities, scheduled for October 12 and expected to draw large crowds for an evening light-up moment symbolising unity and renewal. Restaurants across the capital are staging Diwali menus and events through mid- and late-October, from budget-friendly feasts to multi-course tasting menus at established venues. Operators citing their seasonal programmes include casual chains and independent fine-dining venues that have created limited menus, cocktail offerings and private dining options timed to the festival.