November 1 | 11am–6pm | Wavertree | Free General Admission
Join the Seaport Museum and The Culture Tree for a full day of free Seaport Museum admission and festive activities to mark Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Diwali, named for the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that light up homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness, also marks the start of the Hindu New Year.
From 11am to 6pm, step aboard the Seaport Museum’s 1885 tall ship Wavertree for hands-on Diwali fun! Create your own baggywrinkle decoration inspired by marigold garlands, a symbol of good fortune and faith, but with a maritime twist. Plus, decorate your own “diya lamp”—or in this case, a candle—and float it in a special pool on deck, symbolizing prosperity for the new year. The Museum is staying open an extra hour later so that you can enjoy the glow of your diya lamp after sunset.
From 4pm to 6pm, enjoy Diwali Puppet Storytime on Wavertree, where we’ll explore the significance and origins of Diwali and how it’s celebrated worldwide. We’ll also read stories like A Kids Book About Diwali, perfect for children and families. Following Storytime, dive into an interactive dance workshop where you’ll learn mudras (hand gestures) from classical Indian dance and groove to popular Diwali songs in a lively performance!
In addition to these exciting, all-ages activities, enjoy free access to the Seaport Museum’s current exhibitions at 12 Fulton Street and explore the 1885 tall ship Wavertree. Timed tickets for a free tour of the 1908 lightship Ambrose are also available.
Presented in partnership with The Culture Tree, this Diwali celebration is a day of joy, culture, and community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you! Please note that storage space is not available on board Wavertree. Strollers can be parked at the base of the gangway when boarding. Access to Wavertree includes climbing up a few stairs, walking up an angled gangway, and then down a few stairs onto the deck. Access to the lower decks is by stairs; access to the upper deck is by steep ladder-like stairs.
Please Note This is a Past Program, Event, or Activity
You are viewing an archived page for a program, event, or activity that has already taken place. In most cases these pages are no longer actively maintained and because of that may contain inaccurate or out-of-date information. These pages are left publicly viewable to preserve institutional memory and to allow the public to learn more about the types of programs, activities, and content created and made available by the South Street Seaport Museum throughout its history.
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.
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.