As a child, bursting crackers a week before Diwali signaled the start of the festive season for me. These days, pre-Diwali bashes are my thing and Delhi hosts some great ones.
Some of the best Diwali parties in Delhi include Starry Night by The Mehfil Co at Molecular IFC and Diwali Dhamaka at Auro Kitchen Bar. For a luxurious evening, consider the pre-Diwali bash at Shangri-La. Budget-friendly picks include Dilli ki Diwali at Flow Brew & Dine and a pre-Diwali party at Molecular IFC.
Delhi’s nightlife is electric. The city hosts numerous pre-Diwali parties that promise a good time, delicious food and plenty of drinks. It’s also your chance to dress in your ethnic best. Read on for the highlights.
The Best Diwali Parties of Delhi
Many people host Diwali gatherings at home, but if you’d like to step out for music, dance, food and drinks before the big day, Delhi has plenty of options.
1. Starry Night by The Mehfil Co.
Molecule IFC is a popular rooftop bar in Gurugram that hosts a lively pre-Diwali bash called Starry Night. It’s perfect if you love dancing to Bollywood hits while dressed in festive ethnic wear.
The Mehfil Co. organises this party at Molecule IFC, Gurugram.
Why go: The venue is known for its ambience and food. The party offers music, dance, and an unlimited food and drinks package included with your ticket.
It’s one of the most popular pre-Diwali bashes in the Delhi-NCR region. Though slightly expensive, it has all the elements you might want in a Diwali party.
Location: Molecule IFC, 2nd Floor, M3M IFC, Golf Course Ext Rd, Badshahpur, Sector 66, Gurugram.
Parking: Ample valet and self-parking are available; parking is chargeable.
Tickets: Ladies ₹1,999; Couples ₹3,799; Stag + Couple ₹5,999. Book tickets here.
Timing: Typically 8:30 pm to midnight.
2. Diwali Dhamaka at Auro Kitchen Bar
Auro Kitchen Bar is a chic restaurant in Aurobindo Market, Hauz Khas. With a wide-ranging menu and a cosy, modern Indian-fusion vibe, it’s popular with the young crowd.
They host a spectacular pre-Diwali party with Bollywood at its core.
Why go: It’s more affordable than many other events and delivers full-on Bollywood vibes. Expect a variety of food and drinks, foot-tapping music and a solid crowd thanks to its upscale location.
There’s also a mini-mela set-up with photo booths, a few pop-ups and themed décor. Dress in your ethnic best as most guests do.
Location: Aurobindo Palace Market, DDA Shopping Complex, 201 Sri Aurobindo Marg, Hauz Khas.
Parking: Self-parking is available at Aurobindo Market; hourly charges apply in SDMC-marked parking bays.
Tickets: Combo ticket for Action Replay (a retro-themed party) + Diwali Dhamaka: ₹2,500 per person. Diwali Dhamaka only: ₹1,299 per person. Book tickets here.
Timings: Typically 8 pm to 2 am.
3. Dilli ki Diwali at Flow Brew and Dine
Flow Brew & Dine in Saket is a popular rooftop restaurant. Its stunning skyline views and relaxed vibe make it a great spot to eat and celebrate with friends and family.
The contemporary interiors get an extra festive lift during the Diwali party.
Why go: Sparkling décor, city views and plenty of photo-friendly Diwali props and diyas. As a microbrewery, they offer a strong beer selection alongside handcrafted cocktails.
There’s also a special Diwali menu – the cherry on top. The dress code is festive ethnic wear. Tickets are reasonably priced, so you can enjoy the spirit of the season without burning a hole in your pocket.
Location: Commons, DLF Avenue, 2nd Floor, 312 B & C, A4, Saket.
Parking: Self-parking is available at DLF Avenue; hourly charges apply.
Tickets: Early-bird price ₹799 per person, including one complimentary drink. Book tickets here.
Timings: Typically from 8 pm till late.
4. Privee’s Pre-Diwali Bash at Shangri-La’s Eros
Privee, the high-end club at Shangri-La’s Eros, features plush interiors, great music and quality food and beverages that attract the city’s elite. Some of the country’s best DJs perform here.
Their pre-Diwali bash warms up Delhi’s partygoers for the festive season.
Why go: If you want to kick-start your Diwali season with an upscale crowd, fancy cocktails and champagne, this is your spot. Expect a mix of EDM, mashups and classic Bollywood.
Dress in your stylish best – there’s no ethnic-only dress code. You may even spot celebrities and other influential guests. Overall, it’s a premium experience with a refined crowd.
Location: Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel, Ashoka Rd, Janpath, Connaught Place.
Parking: Valet parking is available for guests.
Tickets: Entry typically starts at ₹2,500 per person and includes access to all club areas.
Table bookings start around ₹10,000 and usually include bottle service and gourmet appetisers; pricing varies by table size. Learn more here.
Timings: Typically starts around 9-10 pm and goes on till 4 am.
5. Pre-Diwali Party by Molecular IFC, Gurugram
Molecule IFC in Gurugram also hosts its own pre-Diwali party, usually spread over three days, so you can soak up the lights and music across multiple evenings.
The venue’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a solid party spot.
Why go: It’s very affordable yet delivers the full Delhi-style pre-Diwali vibe. Expect tasty food, a drinks menu curated for the festive mood and electrifying music that blends festive beats, Bollywood and EDM.
Location: Molecule IFC, 2nd Floor, M3M IFC, Golf Course Ext Rd, Badshahpur, Sector 66, Gurugram.
Parking: Valet and self-parking available; charges apply.
Tickets: Couples ₹499; Ladies ₹299; Stag + Couple ₹799. There’s also a mandatory cover of ₹1,000 per person, payable at the gate and redeemable against F&B. Book tickets here.
Timings: Usually starts around 8 pm and runs for 3-4 hours (typically till ~11 pm-12 am).