Celebrate Diwali 2025 in Toronto with UP Express

As the vibrant festival of Diwali approaches in 2025, Toronto transforms into a dazzling canvas of lights and colours, celebrating one of the most cherished occasions in the Indian calendar. This festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, holds significant cultural and spiritual importance, fostering community and togetherness among the city’s diverse populations. Streets adorned with twinkling diyas, bustling markets filled with festive goodies, and a breathtaking fireworks display illuminate the night sky, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates locals and visitors alike.

In Toronto, Diwali is not just a festival but an experience reflecting the city’s multicultural spirit. From lively cultural performances to sumptuous feasts, the celebrations invite everyone to partake in the joy and enthusiasm of this cherished tradition. UP Express offers a convenient route for those considering a visit or planning their journey home, making their Diwali travel seamless and enjoyable. Join the festivities and witness how the city comes alive; there’s no better time to explore Toronto than during this vibrant celebration.

What is Deepavali?

Diwali, also known as Divali or Deepavali, is the revered Festival of Lights that celebrates the triumph of good over evil and symbolizes knowledge over ignorance. Its name is derived from "Diyas" (pronounced: dee-yahz), the clay lamps lit in and around homes to represent the inner light that safeguards against spiritual darkness. Originally celebrated as a Harvest Festival, it marked the end of the agricultural year in India, where communities would seek the blessings of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, as they concluded their financial accounts and prayed for prosperity in the coming year.

This five-day festival, observed in October or November, is Canada's most significant holiday, drawing millions worldwide into its vibrant traditions. Diwali ignites the city of Toronto with a festive spirit that reflects its multicultural essence. Streets and homes glow with Diyas, colourful decorations, and the sounds of celebration fill the air with joy. Local communities come together to enjoy cultural performances, share sumptuous feasts, and engage in acts of charity, reinforcing bonds of togetherness and goodwill. This makes Diwali not just a celebration but a testament to the values of light, hope, and community, prominently resonating in Toronto and beyond.

What you can expect at a Diwali celebration in Toronto

As you prepare to celebrate Diwali in Toronto, expect a vibrant and joyful atmosphere filled with traditions that highlight the festival's spirit. The enchanting practice of lighting diyas symbolizes purity and spiritual awakening, while homes are adorned with colourful rangoli, fresh flowers, and twinkling lights. Firecrackers fill the night sky with excitement, representing the triumph of good over evil.

Food plays a central role, with delicious homemade sweets like laddus, barfi, and kheer shared among family and friends. Diwali also emphasizes charity, as many donate food, clothing, or money, reinforcing community bonds. Donning new clothes is customary, symbolizing renewal and abundance. Get ready to embrace the joy and togetherness of this beautiful festival!

Celebrate like a local at a Diwali celebration in Toronto

Little India

This Diwali, immerse yourself in the vibrant Gerrard India Bazaar, Toronto's Little India. The celebrations will be in full swing on October 20th with a lively Diwali Mela. Enjoy a street festival brimming with delicious food, music, dance, and cultural activities that reflect the festival's spirit.

Getting to Little India is easy! Take the TTC from Union Station to Greenwood Station, catch a bus, or enjoy a short walk to the festivities. Alternatively, use GO Transit from Danforth GO Station. All connections are perfect for those using UP Express to get to Union Station.

Join the community as they celebrate with diyas, tasty Indian treats, and traditional performances.

Diwali Festival of Lights

Join the celebration at Nathan Phillips Square for the Diwali Festival of Lights on October 11th and 12th. This spectacular event promises to immerse you in this beloved festival’s vibrant culture and traditions. As Toronto’s largest Diwali celebration, this free event attracts people from all walks of life and showcases a tapestry of Indian culture through art, music, and dance.

Nathan Phillips Square will be transformed into a dazzling wonderland, illuminated by the glow of diyas and vibrant decorations. Expect an array of activities, including live performances by talented artists, traditional music, and dance showcasing the rich heritage of the Indian community. Delicious food stalls will be set up, offering a variety of mouth-watering treats—from savoury snacks like samosas to sweet delights such as jalebi and barfi. It's the perfect opportunity to taste authentic Indian cuisine while enjoying the festivities.

Getting to the Diwali Festival of Lights is hassle-free with UP Express! Simply hop on the train at Union Station, where connections to Nathan Phillips Square are easy and convenient. The central location allows visitors to join in the celebrations without the stress of navigating through the city on Diwali.

Trillium Diwali Gala

Join the community on October 17th for the 2025 Trillium Diwali Gala at the Pearson Convention Centre in Brampton! This elegant event promises a night of cultural richness, delectable cuisine, and vibrant entertainment as we celebrate the Festival of Lights.

Travelling to the gala is a breeze with UP Express, with stops conveniently located at Pearson Airport, a short distance from the gala. Whether you're coming from downtown Toronto or arriving from afar, UP Express offers a quick and comfortable connection to the celebrations.

Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance, as this fabulous event is expected to sell out. Don’t forget to dress to impress for an evening filled with dance, music, and the warm glow of diyas. Celebrate Diwali in style and let the lights of the gala guide you into a joyous holiday season!

Diwali Fest 2025

Join the vibrant celebration at Diwali Fest 2025 from October 10-12 at Mel Lastman Square in North York! This festive occasion offers a fantastic experience of cultural performances, art, and delicious cuisine.

The square will be transformed into a dazzling display of lights and colours, featuring captivating dance shows, live music, and an array of stalls with mouth-watering treats like samosas, pakoras, and delectable desserts. It's the ideal way to celebrate the spirit of Diwali with family and friends!

Heading to Mel Lastman Square is a breeze with UP Express! If you're coming from Pearson Airport, jump on the UP Express to Union Station and then transfer to the TTC for a smooth ride to North York. Alternatively, if you're at Bloor or Weston stations, you can take GO Transit directly to Yonge St. @ North York Blvd., which easily gets you right to Mel Lastman Square.

Everyone can join the celebration!

As you prepare for Diwali 2025 in Toronto, embrace the spirit of this vibrant festival with friends and family. This celebration holds deep significance for the East Asian community in the city, uniting diverse cultures in joy and togetherness.

Enhance your festivities with a delicious Indian feast at top restaurants like Toronto Canteen (King/Spadina), The Grand Indian Dining (Queen/Augusta), and Angara Indian and Hakka (Queen/Portland). For comforting favourites, don’t forget Bawara Indian Restaurant (Dundas St W/Bloor St W), Dil Se Indian Restaurant (Roncesvalles Ave/Constance St), Leela Indian Food Bar (Dundas St. W/Clendenan Ave) and Indilicious Fine Indian Cuisine (The Junction).

Gather your loved ones, enjoy the rich traditions, and with UP Express making travel seamless, there's no better time to explore Toronto during this festive season!