Deepavali 2026 at Indian Heritage Centre Singapore: Dates, Free Activities and Opening Hours
Looking for Deepavali events in Singapore in 2026? The Indian Heritage Centre is celebrating the Festival of Lights with its annual Deepavali Open House, bringing together Indian traditions, cultural performances, family activities and festive shopping in Little India.
Running from 17 October to 8 November 2026, this year’s celebration follows the theme House of Memories. Visitors can explore traditional sarees, enjoy cultural performances, take part in creative workshops and discover the stories behind Singapore’s Deepavali celebrations.
One of the biggest attractions is the free admission during the Open House, making it an appealing option for families, tourists and anyone interested in Indian culture.
If you are planning a visit to Little India, here is everything you need to know about Deepavali 2026 at the Indian Heritage Centre, including dates, timings, activities, ticket prices and location.
| Event Information | Details |
| Event name | Deepavali Open House 2026 |
| Theme | House of Memories |
| Dates | 17 October – 8 November 2026 |
| Venue | Indian Heritage Centre |
| Address | 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924 |
| Regular opening hours | 10 AM – 6 PM |
| Extended Saturday hours | 10 AM – 8 PM |
| Admission | Free during the Open House |
| Main attractions | Cultural performances, crafts, exhibitions and festive bazaar |
| Special workshop | Indian miniature art painting |
| Workshop price | S$28 per person |
| Official website | Indian Heritage Centre |
What is the Deepavali Open House 2026?
The Indian Heritage Centre’s annual Deepavali Open House celebrates the traditions, memories and community experiences associated with the Festival of Lights.
For 2026, the centre has transformed its spaces into a “House of Memories”, featuring archival photographs, traditional clothing, festive displays and interactive activities inspired by how Deepavali has been celebrated across generations.
Rather than simply visiting a museum, visitors can take part in hands-on activities, explore Indian heritage and enjoy the festive atmosphere around Campbell Lane.
The event is suitable for families with children, culture enthusiasts, local residents and tourists who want to experience Singapore’s Indian heritage during the Deepavali season.
Deepavali 2026 Activities at Indian Heritage Centre
There are several free activities to explore during the Open House. Some attractions are available throughout the event, while others operate only on weekends.
1. Heirloom Saree Display
Discover traditional handwoven sarees contributed by members of the community. The display shares personal stories about how sarees are worn, preserved and passed down through generations.
It offers visitors a glimpse into the cultural and family significance of traditional Indian clothing.
2. Vintage Photo Booth and Dress-Up
Step back in time with a vintage-inspired photo booth designed around traditional Deepavali portraits.
Visitors can try on festive attire and capture memorable photographs with family and friends. This activity is listed among the weekend experiences.
3. DIY Mini Mithai Box
Indian sweets are an important part of many Deepavali celebrations. At this activity, visitors can decorate their own mini mithai box inspired by traditional sweet shops.
It is a fun option for families and children who enjoy creative activities.
4. Clay Brooch Painting
Try your hand at decorating a clay brooch inspired by traditional motifs and accessories. The activity offers a creative way to explore Indian artistic designs and festive fashion traditions.
5. Deepavali Weekend Bazaar
The weekend bazaar brings together festive goodies, traditional clothing, handcrafted products and cultural goods.
It is worth visiting if you are looking for festive shopping or want to explore products associated with Indian traditions.
6. Cultural Performances
Visitors can enjoy live cultural performances around Campbell Lane during the scheduled weekends.
Special Saturday evening dance programmes featuring AKT and Gayathri Dance Academy are listed for 17, 24 and 31 October, from 6 PM to 7 PM.
The official schedule also lists free English guided tours of the museum galleries at 7 PM every Saturday, with no advance registration required for the listed tours.
Deepavali Open House 2026: Activities and Timings
| Activity | Timings | Admission |
| Museum Open House | 10 AM – 6 PM | Free |
| Extended Saturday opening | Until 8 PM | Free |
| Weekend bazaar | Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM; Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM | Free entry |
| DIY Mini Mithai Box | Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM; Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM | Free |
| Clay Brooch Painting | Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM; Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM | Free |
| Heirloom Saree Corner and Photobooth | Weekends, 10 AM – 5 PM | Free |
| Children’s activities | 10 AM – 5 PM; craft activities on weekdays only | Free |
| Saturday English museum tour | 7:00 PM | Free |
| Special Saturday dance performances | 6 PM – 7 PM on 31 October | Free |
| Indian miniature art painting | 31 October and 1 November | S$28 per person |
Indian Miniature Art Painting Workshop: Price and Registration
Visitors interested in traditional Indian art can consider the miniature art painting workshop.
The guided session introduces participants to miniature painting inspired by traditional Indian artworks.
- Dates: 31 October and 1 November 2026
- Price: S$28 per person
- Registration: Required
- Booking information: Check the official Deepavali 2026 programme page.
The published schedule lists the 31 October session from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM. For the 1 November session, check the current registration page for the confirmed timing and remaining availability.
Earlier cooking demonstrations on 17 and 18 October were also part of the programme, but those dates have passed.
Is Deepavali Open House 2026 Free?
Yes. The Indian Heritage Centre lists free admission during its Deepavali Open House from 17 October to 8 November 2026.
Visitors can enjoy several exhibitions and activities without paying an entry fee. However, some special workshops require separate payment and registration.
Keep in mind that transport, food and any purchases at the festive bazaar are additional expenses.
Indian Heritage Centre Location and How to Get There
📍 Address: Indian Heritage Centre, 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924.
🚇 By MRT: Take the train to Little India MRT Station and use Exit E.
🚌 By Bus: Nearby stops include the stop in front of Tekka Centre along Serangoon Road and the stop at Sungei Road after Serangoon Road.
🚗 By Car: Parking facilities are available at Tekka Centre’s basement car park, Upper Dickson Road and nearby street parking areas.
🗺️ Map directions: Get directions to Indian Heritage Centre on Google Maps.
The centre normally closes on Mondays, so plan your visit between Tuesday and Sunday and verify any special opening arrangements before travelling.
Tips for Visiting the Deepavali Open House
Visit early on weekends if you want to explore several activities.
Arrive before the last admission time for Saturday evening programming.
Remember that the centre’s Saturday opening hours extend until 8 PM, with last admission at 7:30 PM.
Check whether your preferred workshop requires advance registration.
Bring children along for the interactive crafts and cultural displays.
Allow extra time to explore Campbell Lane and the surrounding Little India neighbourhood.
Check the official schedule for changes before setting out.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is Deepavali Open House 2026 at Indian Heritage Centre?
The event runs from 17 October to 8 November 2026.
2. Is admission free at the Indian Heritage Centre during Deepavali 2026?
Yes. Admission is free during the Open House. Some special workshops have separate charges.
3. What are the opening hours?
The listed hours are 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended opening until 8 PM on Saturdays. Last admission on Saturday nights is 7:30 PM.
4. What can visitors do at the Deepavali Open House?
Visitors can explore the heirloom saree display, enjoy cultural performances, participate in crafts, visit the weekend bazaar and take photographs at the vintage photo booth.
5. How much does the miniature painting workshop cost?
The listed price is S$28 per person. Registration is required, and availability should be checked before visiting.
6. Where is the Indian Heritage Centre located?
The centre is at 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924, near Little India MRT Station.
7. Is the Deepavali Open House suitable for children?
Yes. The programme includes children’s activities, creative workshops, cultural displays and family-friendly experiences.
8. Where can I find the official Deepavali 2026 programme?
Visit the official Indian Heritage Centre Deepavali 2026 page for event details, schedules and registration information.
Final Thoughts
The Deepavali Open House 2026 at the Indian Heritage Centre offers a meaningful way to celebrate the Festival of Lights in Singapore. From traditional sarees and vintage photographs to creative crafts and cultural performances, the programme brings Indian heritage and community memories together.
With free admission and extended Saturday hours, it is an event worth considering if you are planning a visit to Little India before 8 November 2026.