(Because Diwali vibes hit different when you’re far from home — but still together)
Let’s face it — being away from India during festival season can feel a little weird. No loud crackers, no aunty dropping off sweets, no full-blown family drama in the living room. BUT here’s the good news: the UK has a thriving desi community that goes all out to bring that festive spirit to life — even in the middle of foggy October nights or rainy Holi mornings.
Whether you’re a student, young professional, or just here for the vibes, here’s how you can still celebrate Indian festivals in the UK — with music, food, lights, color, and lots of new friends.
🪔 Diwali – Festival of Lights (and food, let’s be honest)
When: October–November
Where to celebrate:
- Trafalgar Square, London: Huge open-air event with stage shows, food stalls, and DIY rangoli workshops
- Leicester Diwali Lights Switch-On: One of the biggest Diwali celebrations outside India!
- University Indian Societies: Most unis host Diwali nights with traditional outfits, dance, dinner, and DJ
💡 Pro Tip: Bring your own battery candles or diya — because live Fire is a hazard here and needs cautionary measures .
🌈 Holi – The Festival of Colours (and chaotic energy)
When: March
Where to celebrate:
- Desi community groups in Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow often host Holi festivals in parks
- Bollywood Holi parties in clubs — yes, this is a thing (and it’s wild)
- Uni events: Expect events, Bollywood playlists, and snacks
💡 Pro Tip: Wear old clothes, bring baby wipes.
🎊 Navratri & Garba Nights – Dandiya Mode: Activated
When: September–October
Where to go:
- Temples in London, Leicester, and Edinburgh host traditional garba nights. Dashami Sindoor-Khela is a must experience at the Durga Puja held by the Bengali Community.
- Community halls & Indian student orgs organize full-on dandiya nights (complete with dress codes and snacks!)
💃 Don’t worry if you don’t know the steps — most people are learning too. Just follow the rhythm and enjoy the vibe.
🎉 Onam, Eid, Pongal, Vaisakhi & More
Whatever your region, you’ll find a group celebrating it:
- Malayali associations host traditional Onam sadyas (banana leaf feasts 🍛)
- Eid dinners & open mosque days happen across major cities
- Punjabi societies celebrate Vaisakhi with dance, langar, and bhangra beats
- Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada communities bring the South Indian flavour with pongal & puthandu festivals, movie nights, and food fests.
💡 Pro Tip: Follow local cultural associations on Facebook or Instagram — they post event invites regularly.
✨ Why Celebrate in the UK?
- Connect with your roots ❤️
- Meet people from your region or state
- Enjoy authentic food (or at least a solid attempt)
- Beat homesickness in the best way possible
Just because you’re in the UK doesn’t mean you have to skip the celebrations. From Diwali to Eid, Holi to Onam, there’s always something happening — and chances are, your new desi fam is just a bus ride away.
Check out the scottishindian’s events calendar for upcoming festival celebrations near you. From garba nights to massive country-wide Diwali parties — we’ve got you covered. 🌟
