November 10 | 3–5pm | Wavertree, Pier 16, Pier 17 | Free
Celebrate Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, at the South Street Seaport Museum and on Seaport Square. Diwali is a Hindu festival of lights, held in the period from October to November. The name is derived from the Sanskrit term dipavali, meaning “row of lights.” The festival generally symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.
From 3–5pm, come aboard the Seaport Museum’s 1885 tall ship Wavertree, where you can make your own decoration inspired by the marigold garlands of Diwali, signifying good fortune and faith in the divine, with a maritime twist. Continue the Seaport Museum’s festivities on Pier 16, where you can decorate your own “diya lamp”—or, in this case, a candle—and then set it afloat in a specially prepared pool to symbolize prosperity in the new year.
In addition to these free all-ages activities and access to the 1885 tall ship Wavertree, the Seaport Museum is offering free general admission to all current exhibitions on view in the introduction gallery space at 12 Fulton Street. Free timed tickets for a tour of the 1908 lightship Ambrose are also available.
The celebration is presented in partnership with The Culture Tree.
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More Diwali Activities
From 3–6pm, our partners at The Culture Tree will host an outdoor dance workshop and performances of the garba and dandiya raas, along with traditional rangoli art activities on Seaport Square on Pier 17. You can also indulge in traditional Indian food available for purchase and enjoy a live DJ and a Diwali-themed photo booth. Advance pre-registration for these activities is available separately through the button below.
About The Culture Tree
The Culture Tree promotes cultural literacy about South Asia through language and educational and cultural programs. The Culture Tree’s goal is to create empathy, respect and understanding towards all different cultures and further inclusivity, while still helping address questions about identity with heritage cultures.
A Brief Explanation of Diwali
Diwali is a Hindu festival of lights, held in the period October to November. The name is derived from the Sanskrit term dipavali, meaning “row of lights.” The festival generally symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.
Extend Your Visit
Looking to visit earlier in the day on November 10? You are welcome to explore the Seaport Museum from 11am–3pm by getting Pay What You Wish General Admission Museum tickets. General Admission includes access to all current exhibitions on view in the introduction gallery space at 12 Fulton Street and access to the 1885 tall ship Wavertree. Free timed tickets for a tour of the 1908 lightship Ambrose are available separately at no additional cost.
Ready for more?
Head over to our Programs and Events page to see what else is happening at the Museum. Sign up for an upcoming talk, learn more about visiting Wavertree, or explore our virtual offerings.