Penang Festive Events 2026–2027: Deepavali to CNY

Updated

From November to February, Penang hardly stops celebrating. Deepavali falls on Sunday 8 November 2026. Then comes Christmas, the New Year countdown, Thaipusam on 22 January 2027 and Chinese New Year from 6 February 2027.

This roundup collects every festive event we have verified, in date order. Each listing links to its organiser.

Deepavali 2026 (8 November)

Little India in George Town is the heart of Deepavali in Penang. The malls also run light-up displays from mid-October.

Christmas 2026

New Year's Eve countdown 2027

For buffets on the night, see our hotel buffet guide.

Pesta Pulau Pinang (December)

Thaipusam and Chinese New Year 2027

Frequently asked questions

When is Deepavali 2026 in Malaysia?

Deepavali falls on Sunday 8 November 2026, with Monday 9 November as a replacement holiday.

Where to celebrate Christmas in Penang?

Gurney Plaza and Queensbay Mall run Christmas programmes, and E&O, Hard Rock and OZO have Christmas Eve buffets. See the Christmas section above.

Where to watch the New Year countdown in Penang?

Verified countdowns for 2027 include Straits Quay, Gurney Plaza, and hotel parties at G Hotel Gurney, G Hotel Kelawai and Farquhar's Bar at the E&O.

When is Chinese New Year 2027?

Chinese New Year 2027 falls on Saturday 6 February 2027. Thaipusam is on Friday 22 January 2027.

Sources: Penang Global Tourism, Malaysia 2027 public holidays (HRO), Office Holidays: Deepavali 2026 Penang. Last verified . Spotted an error? Tell us.