Diwali at Sopwell House

Sopwell House is celebrating Diwali on Friday 6 November, and they're framing it as their biggest one yet. The hotel is a five-star spot on Cottonmill Lane in St Albans, and this particular night sits within its 40th anniversary year, which they've pitched as an invitation to experience four decades of hospitality. They're leaning into the party side of things this time around, with more music, more entertainment, more lounge areas and a bigger dance floor than they've had before.

The evening starts with a welcome drink on arrival, and from there the food takes centre stage. There are Indian street-food stations running throughout the night, with canapés, chaat, tawa stations, mini dosas, biryani, curries, breads and desserts, and vegetarian options too. It's the kind of setup where you graze rather than sit down for a single course, so you can keep moving between the food and the dance floor.

Live entertainment and a DJ run alongside that dance floor, with stylish lounge seating around for when you need a break from the music. The night closes with a fireworks display lighting up the Hertfordshire sky. It's a long one, too: doors open at 7pm and carriages arrive at midnight, so there's plenty of room to work your way through the food and the dancing.

Tickets are £109 and you'll need to book in advance. If you have any dietary requirements, they ask for at least 48 hours' notice, so keep that in mind if you're planning to go. Sopwell House is on Cottonmill Lane, AL1 2HQ.