Diwali, also known as Deepavali or the festival of lights, is a Hindu holiday typically celebrated in India, South Asia, and across the diaspora. The joyous event honors the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. While rituals and customs vary widely, Diwali is often celebrated by lighting diyas or candles, enjoying sweet treats, decorating with colorful rangolis, and attending worship services.
This year, Diwali falls on Oct. 31 – Nov 1 and brings a variety of events and festivities to the Chicago area. Explore this year’s Diwali celebrations throughout the city, from special meals to family-friendly fun and more events that showcase Chicago’s vibrant Asian culture and communities.
In this article
Free and family-friendly Diwali events
Diwali market tour on Devon Avenue
Oct. 28, 2024
Join this free market tour and tasting to celebrate the Festival of Lights. This free event will take guests inside the beloved Patel Brothers on Devon Avenue in West Ridge. Founded in Chicago, Patel Brothers has grown into the world’s largest Indian supermarket chain.
Diwali Celebration for All Families
Oct. 30, 2024
The best-selling children’s author, Ajanta, will host this engaging and educational Diwali workshop that features Indian dance and cultural storytelling that takes attendees on a journey through the five days of Diwali. This free all-ages event is being held at the Independence Branch of the Chicago Public Library in Irving Park.
Deepavali: A Celebration of Lights
Nov. 9, 2024
Honoring Diwali as the triumph of light over darkness, this evening celebration will feature food, sparklers, and art in the South Loop neighborhood. The free community event will take place at the Chicago Women’s Garden and is hosted by the Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts, a local organization that showcases India’s artistic diversity.
Restaurants and Diwali dining specials
Bar Goa
Bar Goa is a clubby restaurant and cocktail bar in River North that celebrates the cuisine and culture of India’s southwest Goa region. They’ll keep the party going for Diwali all month long with live DJs every Friday and Saturday along with happy hour specials every day.
Sifr
In River North, the acclaimed Sifr will host a special dining experience in honor of Diwali. This multi-course menu, which celebrates Indian flavors through both traditional and innovative dishes, is available on Sunday, Nov. 3.
Vajra
In honor of Diwali, this Wicker Park favorite will serve a special three-course dinner menu. The evening will feature a collaboration with Maya Pistola Agavepura, an up-and-coming spirit brand distilled from agave in Goa, India. Reserve your seats for Saturday, Oct. 26.
Basant Modern Indian
This sleek space in North Center will be offering Diwali specials, ranging from decadent dishes to street food favorites, from Oct. 23 through Nov. 3.
ROOP
Indulge in an elegant tasting menu experience at ROOP in the West Loop. The eight-course meal uses innovative techniques and local ingredients to present the rich, authentic flavors of Indian cuisine in bold new ways.
Diwali parties in Chicago
Diwali Celebration with DJ Shadow Dubai
Nov. 2, 2024
Get ready for an electrifying Diwali celebration at the Hard Rock Cafe in the city’s River North neighborhood, known for being a nightlife hub. The event features Indian cuisine, lively decor, and globally renowned DJ Shadow from Dubai playing the best of Bollywood, EDM, and more. Get your tickets today.
Diwali Gala at Barrio
Nov. 2, 2024
In River North, Barrio will be hosting a Diwali Gala where guests will dance to DJs spinning Bollywood, Bhangra, EDM, house, and club anthems all night long. The festivities also include a nine-foot LED robot (dubbed ‘Diwali Man”, go-go dancers, and option VIP bottle services. Tickets are now on sale, Indian formalwear is encouraged.
Thoda Naach Thoda Dhamaka Diwali Party
Oct. 26, 2024
Get ready for an all-day Diwali bash, showcasing Bollywood beats and live performances at Stage 773 in the Belmont Theater District. Catch an improv showcase, Bollywood trivia, standup comedy, and dancing. Snacks are included in the ticket price, a cash bar will be available.
More things to do
Explore the West Ridge neighborhood
The city’s West Ridge community is a true melting pot of cultures, with a vibrant mix of nationalities from all over the world. You’ll find a large concentration of shops and restaurants showcasing the culture and cuisine of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other areas of Asia. Head to Devon Avenue to stock up on sweets at local bakeries, shop for colorful saris and traditional clothing, and find specialty ingredients at international grocery stores and markets.
Explore more: Take a global food tour of the West Ridge neighborhood.
Visit cultural institutions
Chicago is home to a plethora of diverse cultural institutions, many celebrating the art, history, and culture of India and South Asia.
- The South Asia Institute is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and presenting South Asian arts. Visit their space in the South Loop to see their latest exhibitions and attend artists and curator talks, poetry sessions, concerts, and more.
- Located on the lakefront museum campus, the Field Museum is one of the city’s most distinguished museums. The museum’s collections feature artifacts from throughout Asia, including one of the most distinctive collections of Asian textiles in the country.
- Mandala Arts honors the performing arts traditions of South Asia, from classic to contemporary. Check their calendar for dance, theatre, and music performances throughout the year, showcasing Mandala’s ensemble and collaborating partners.
- Visit the Art Institute of Chicago to explore Asian artworks spanning nearly five millennia. The museum holdings include everything from contemporary photography of Indian life to ancient statues of Shiva and Ganesha.
