London— The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today announced that the capital’s annual Diwali on the Square celebrations will return to Trafalgar Square on Sunday 27 October. 

The free family-friendly celebration of the Festival of Lights will bring together Londoners and visitors in the heart of the capital to enjoy a fantastic programme of dance, music, activities and food from 1-7pm. 

Delivered in partnership with the volunteer-led Diwali in London committee, and supported by headline sponsor Remitly, the event will showcase the very best of culture from London’s Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities.

The afternoon opens with a burst of colour and music as 200 traditionally dressed dancers are set to perform in the centre of Trafalgar Square.

There will be a variety of market stalls and free, family-friendly activities to enjoy. These includes dance workshops, yoga and meditation, comedy from Soho Theatre, Sari and Turban tying and the Glimpse of Goddesses stall where visitors can find out more about Hindu goddesses. New this year is the Bhajan singing space where groups will perform throughout the day.

Visitors can also enjoy South Asian food, with a range of caterers serving up delicious traditional and fusion vegan and vegetarian cuisine.  

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Diwali on the Square is a fantastic family celebration of light and colour. It brings together Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds to mark the symbolic victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance with a packed programme of entertainment. As global tensions continue to affect us all, Diwali’s central messages of peace and hope are more pertinent than ever. By uniting to celebrate our diversity, we are showing why our capital is the greatest city in the world, as we continue to build a better London for everyone.”

Parul Jani, of the Brahmin Society North London, and Chair of Diwali in London Committee 2024, said: “On our 23rd year of Diwali on Trafalgar Square, always supported by the Mayor of London, wishing everyone a very Happy Diwali right from the heart. Jai Siya Ram.”