London’s iconic Trafalgar Square was bathed in a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, and community spirit on Sunday, October 12, 2025, as thousands gathered for the annual Diwali on the Square festival. This flagship event, a vibrant testament to London’s multicultural fabric, transformed the heart of the city into a bustling hub celebrating the Festival of Lights, hope, and unity.
A Spectacular Display of Light and Culture
From 2 PM to 8 PM, Trafalgar Square pulsed with energy, drawing an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 attendees, a consistent draw for this much-anticipated free public celebration. The festivities commenced with a dazzling opening sequence featuring over 200 dancers, their vibrant attire a visual spectacle, setting a joyous tone for the day. This year’s event, themed “Educate, Illuminate, Celebrate,” underscored the deeper meaning of Diwali, emphasizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
A Melting Pot of Performances and Community Voices
The main stage served as the focal point for a diverse array of talent, showcasing the rich contributions of London’s Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities. Audiences were treated to a dynamic lineup of music, classical and contemporary dance, devotional bhajans, and energetic Bollywood routines. Performances from groups such as BAPS Neasden Temple and Chinmaya Mission UK, alongside a live garba band, highlighted the varied artistic expressions within the diaspora. The event, now in its 24th year, has become a significant cultural landmark, reflecting the city’s embrace of diverse traditions.
Engaging Experiences for All Ages
Beyond the main stage, Trafalgar Square offered a plethora of interactive activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. Hands-on workshops provided opportunities to learn traditional skills such as sari and turban tying, while zones dedicated to yoga and meditation offered moments of calm amidst the festivities. A dedicated Children’s Zone featured storytelling, crafts, and puppet shows, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere. A unique spiritual and cultural highlight was “A Glimpse of Goddesses,” an installation exploring the symbolism of Hindu deities, and the Shakti Wheel.
A Feast for the Senses and a Marketplace of Crafts
Food stalls lined the square, offering a tantalizing array of traditional and fusion South Asian vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Visitors indulged in popular sweets like jalebi and gulab jamun, alongside savoury snacks and curries. The event also featured a bustling market where local artisans showcased handmade gifts, jewellery, candles, and traditional Diwali lamps, adding another layer to the cultural immersion.
Mayor’s Message: Unity in London’s Diversity
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, championed Diwali on the Square as a powerful “festival of unity,” emphasizing its role in celebrating London’s diversity and resilience. He highlighted the event’s importance in fostering social cohesion and countering global division, stating, “As hatred and division continue to be spread globally, I am proud that this free, family-friendly, inclusive celebration will once again unite people of all backgrounds in the heart of our capital to spread the message of peace and hope”. The Deputy High Commissioner of India to the UK, Kartik Pande, echoed this sentiment, calling the festival a vibrant symbol of the India-UK friendship and the contribution of the Indian diaspora to London’s society.
Deeper Significance of the Festival
Diwali, meaning “row of lights,” holds profound spiritual significance across multiple faiths. For Hindus, it commemorates Lord Rama’s return; for Sikhs, it marks Guru Hargobind’s release (Bandi Chhor Divas); and for Jains, it signifies Lord Mahavira’s liberation. Across these communities, the festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil, promoting universal values of harmony and hope.
Diwali on the Square 2025 concluded, leaving behind a trail of illuminated spirits and a reinforced sense of community. The event once again proved to be a landmark occasion, not just a trending news item but a vital expression of London’s enduring commitment to multiculturalism and shared celebration.
