Deyas are small clay cups filled with oil, with a cotton wick that is lit to produce a warm, golden flame. During Divali, homes, temples, and public spaces across Trinidad are lined with thousands of deyas, creating a glowing, magical landscape at night. The Nagar is decorated so beautifully it attracts visitors from across the island.
The Nagar hosts performances of classical Indian dance forms like Bharatanatyam and folk dances, alongside live music, storytelling, and cooking demonstrations. Many different cultural groups take part, reflecting how Divali in Trinidad has grown into a truly shared national celebration rather than a festival for just one community.
Food at the Nagar includes traditional sweets like prasad, pera, and meetha rice, as well as savoury dishes and snacks. Stalls selling handicrafts, clothing, and artwork make it a lively market as well as a cultural showcase.
Divali in Trinidad is a public holiday, which shows how important it is to national life. Schools often hold their own Divali celebrations with lantern-making activities and cultural performances in the weeks before the main festival.