Belgrave Road, the heart of Leicester’s iconic Golden Mile, will be closed to traffic on Diwali Day, Monday, October 20, to allow residents and visitors to safely enjoy the festivities.
The road, along with all its side junctions, will be fully closed to vehicles from 5pm to approximately 9.30pm, as thousands are expected to visit local restaurants, shops, and celebrate with their families.
Last year, the city’s Diwali celebrations drew a crowd of around 50,000 people. However, this year’s event will be scaled back after Leicester’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG) concluded that popular attractions like the stage show, Diwali Village, and fireworks display could not safely go ahead.
In a further cost-saving measure, the traditional Diwali lights switch-on has also been cancelled. Instead, all activities will be focused on Diwali Day itself, with celebrations centred around Belgrave Road only. Cossington Street Recreation Ground, which typically hosts parts of the festivities, will not be used this year.
Despite the changes, Belgrave Road will still dazzle with 6,000 LED lights, capturing the spirit of the Festival of Lights. Festive events are already underway in the run-up to the main celebration.
One of the standout attractions is Leicester’s famous Wheel of Light, offering panoramic views from 35 metres high. It will be located at the top of Belgrave Road and remain in place until Sunday, November 2.
Other Diwali-themed events include a Rangoli exhibition at Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre, taking place from October 18 to 20, and the Diwali River of Lights Celebration at Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre on Saturday, October 18.
Diwali, which marks the Hindu New Year and the beginning of winter, is a deeply symbolic occasion. The festival commemorates the return of Lord Rama and Sita to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, a story that holds cultural and spiritual significance for millions across the globe.
For more information and a full guide to Leicester’s Diwali 2025 celebrations, visit:
? Diwali Guide 2025 – Visit Leicester
