Diwali
Celebrate the Festival of Lights! Diwali is one of India's biggest holidays, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide. Light oil lamps (diyas), enjoy sweets, exchange gifts, and celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil.
About Diwali
Celebrate the Festival of Lights! Diwali is one of India's biggest holidays, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide. Light oil lamps (diyas), enjoy sweets, exchange gifts, and celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil.
History & origins
Diwali is listed in this site's 2026 calendar for October 20. Informal "national days" are often promoted by communities, trade groups, and brands; origins and official proclamations vary by country and year. Celebrate the Festival of Lights! Diwali is one of India's biggest holidays, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide. Because many such observances are cultural or promotional rather than statutory, treat dates as a planning guide and confirm local events separately.
Why it matters
Observing Diwali gives people a shared anchor to explore holiday themes—diwali, indian, October, festival, lights—and to coordinate learning, gatherings, or giving around that focus. Celebrate the Festival of Lights! Diwali is one of India's biggest holidays, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide. Light oil lamps (diyas), enjoy sweets, exchange gifts, and celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil.
How to celebrate
Light diyas or candles. Enjoy Indian sweets and food. Watch fireworks. Wear new clothes. Exchange gifts. Clean and decorate your home. Learn about Diwali traditions. Visit Hindu temples or cultural events.
Facts
- Diwali means 'row of lights' in Sanskrit
- Celebrated over five days
- Commemorates Lord Rama's return in Hindu tradition
- Indians clean homes thoroughly before Diwali
- It's a national holiday in India, Nepal, and other countries
Upcoming dates
- Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Wednesday, October 20, 2027
- Friday, October 20, 2028
- Saturday, October 20, 2029
- Sunday, October 20, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is Diwali in 2026?
This edition lists Diwali on 2026-10-20 (October 20). Many recurring observances keep the same month and day each year.
What is Diwali?
Celebrate the Festival of Lights! Diwali is one of India's biggest holidays, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide. Light oil lamps (diyas), enjoy sweets, exchange gifts, and celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil.
How do people celebrate Diwali?
Light diyas or candles. Enjoy Indian sweets and food. Watch fireworks. Wear new clothes. Exchange gifts. Clean and decorate your home. Learn about Diwali traditions. Visit Hindu temples or cultural events.
Is Diwali a federal holiday?
Diwali may coincide with civic or religious calendars in some regions; it is not necessarily a paid day off for all workers—check local listings.
What topics relate to Diwali?
Common themes include: diwali, indian, October, festival, lights. Use tags and related pages on this site to explore similar celebrations.
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