Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated Hindu festivals. Known as the Festival of Lights, it symbolises the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
The festival falls on Kartik Amavasya, the new moon day of the Hindu lunar calendar. Also Read Why do Vedic astrologers consider Dhanteras and Diwali the most auspicious days of Hindu traditions? The celebration honours the spiritual victory of light over darkness. Many Hindu families worship Goddess Lakshmi, the deity associated with wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesha, who represents wisdom and the removal of obstacles. You can prepare for the festival by cleaning your home and decorating your entrance with colourful rangoli designs. Many families light clay diyas and decorate their homes with electric lights. During Lakshmi Puja, devotees traditionally worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. You can prepare flowers, sweets, incense, fruits and other traditional offerings for the ceremony. After the puja, families often share festive meals, exchange gifts and spend time together. Traditional Diwali customs encourage cleanliness, devotion and mindful celebrations. If you follow these practices, keep a few things in mind:
If you are celebrating Diwali in the United States this year, mark Sunday, November 8, 2026, on your calendar. Here is everything you need to know about Diwali 2026 , including puja timings, traditional rituals and practices to follow. Diwali falls on Sunday, November 8, 2026, in the United States. Also Read New Moon November 2026 in Scorpio: Astrologer explains why this lunation is about inner healing According to Drik Panchang, Lakshmi Puja should take place during Pradosh Kaal, the period after sunset. Here are the auspicious timings for selected US cities on November 8.
Lakshmi Puja takes place during the evening Pradosh Kaal, but the auspicious timings vary depending on your US city, according to Drik Panchang. The festival is also observed by Hindu, Jain, Sikh and Buddhist communities, although traditions and religious meanings differ, according to Time and Date.
