The most colourful celebration of the year is almost here, and no, we’re not talking about Christmas. But Diwali, aka the Festival of Light – a five-day Hindu festival that celebrates light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. During the festival, people illuminate their homes with candles and lanterns. So we expect the city to become an even more beautiful place this November. Here are just some of the best Diwali events happening in Birmingham in 2023.
1. Bundobust Does Diwali
Bundobust and Hockley Social Club are teaming up this Diwali. On November 12, head down to the street food venue (from 12pm – 10pm) to find first-rate food from Bundobust, Dan Lee’s Dai Pai Dong and Greidy’s Wings & Strips. Plus, expect hours of entertainment in the form of DJs, dhol drummers, henna art, and some Indian-inspired live music performances from Hockley regulars, Shanty Town.
Tickets are £2 at the door, but if you can’t make it down, Bundobust Birmingham will also be extending the Diwali celebrations, with delicious special dishes at its restaurant from now until November 13. This includes a sweet and savoury snack platter, Fafda & Jalebi; Samosa stuffed with mixed vegetable masala; and Halwa Puri, a traditional Indian sweet made with ground lentils cooked into a sticky, fudgy texture with ghee, milk, saffron and cardamom.
2. Diwali 2023: Shadows, Lights and Lantern Parade, Solihull
Maybe the most enchanting Diwali celebrations in Birmingham this year. On November 2, you’re invited to The Core in Solihull for a day of joy, colours, and arts and cultural activities in preparation for Diwali. A range of workshops will let you create rangoli patterns, puppets and giant community lanterns for the Sari Sari Night lantern parade the following week.
On November 9, Sari Sari Night sees the lantern procession through Solihull town centre, creating a spectacle of light and joy. The parade will finish at The Core, where you can indulge in a variety of mouthwatering Indian street food and soak up the traditional Diwali decorations.
3. Celebrating Diwali in Midlands: The Festival of Light & Happiness, Jewellery Quarter
Head down to Cornwall Street on November 9, where this special event will immerse you in the diverse traditions of Diwali and its educational significance. Celebrate with music and dance, and enjoy a delightful culinary journey featuring authentic Indian cuisine. You’ll also hear about the Diwali Basket Brigade, a community initiative led by local volunteers that extends generosity to those in need during Diwali.
4. Diwali Dinner & Dance 2023, Smethwick
Kundan Gems presents Diwali Dinner & Dance on November 11 in Smethwick. With around 200 people expected, the atmosphere will be unrivalled, with live performances, a three-course dinner, as well as plenty of dancing and exhibitions. Tickets to this festival light celebrations start at £35.
5. Bollynights Birmingham: Diwali Dhamaka
Looking for somewhere to party for Diwali? Head down to Bambu Birmingham for an unmissable night on November 10. Playing Bollywood, Desi and South Indian tunes, the likes of DJ Manny B,
DJ Rohit and DJ Avi will be spinning tunes all night. You can also expect Dhol drummers, live performances and many more Diwali surprises.