Diwali in United States
Date: 21 October 2025
Introduction
Diwali in the USA is joyously celebrated by the Indian diaspora with temple activities, cultural programs, traditional food festivals, and community gatherings that illuminate cities with light and joy.
History
Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, commemorating Lord Rama's return and Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings. The festival strengthens diasporic cultural ties globally.
Rituals
- Decorate homes and temples with diyas, rangoli, and flowers.
- Perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening during the muhurat.
- Organize community cultural events with music, dance, and food.
- Exchange gifts and share sweets with friends and family.
- Participate in fireworks displays in permitted areas.
Events
- Amavasya Tithi Begins:
Start of the new moon day (Amavasya) marking the Diwali period begins in USA timezone. (20 October 2025 12:24 AM EDT - 21 October 2025 11:59 PM EDT) - Pradosh Kaal:
Sacred period before new moon, considered auspicious for prayers and worship. (21 October 2025 6:30 PM EDT - 21 October 2025 8:10 PM EDT) - Lakshmi Puja Muhurat:
Auspicious window to perform the Lakshmi Puja during Diwali night. (21 October 2025 5:15 PM EDT - 21 October 2025 8:45 PM EDT) - Moonrise & Fast Break:
Time to sight the moon and break the fast for Diwali fast observers. (21 October 2025 7:15 PM EDT - 21 October 2025 7:15 PM EDT)
Major Cities
New York
New York hosts one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside India, featuring dazzling events in Times Square with traditional music, colorful dance performances, vibrant food festivals, and community prayers uniting diverse communities.
San Francisco
The San Francisco Bay Area celebrates Diwali with lively fairs at the Civic Center showcasing traditional dances, music concerts, craft bazaars, and a rich spread of Indian delicacies.
Chicago
Chicago’s Diwali celebrations are centered around spiritual gatherings at the Ramkrishna Vedanta Society accompanied by community melas, enchanting fireworks, and cultural programs reflecting the city’s deep-rooted Indian heritage.
Houston
Houston's vibrant Diwali events include spectacular melas with fireworks, music, and dance performances hosted at prominent cultural centers that attract families and visitors from across Texas.
Dallas
Dallas marks Diwali with colorful rangoli competitions, community pujas, and cultural showcases at the Indian Community Center, fostering cultural exchange and festive joy.
Atlanta
Atlanta combines sacred Lakshmi Puja rituals with festive cultural programs and communal feasts, celebrating unity and tradition among the growing Indian diaspora.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles comes alive with grand Diwali festivities at local temples featuring devotional singing, awe-inspiring decorations, and a wide spectrum of Indian culinary delights enjoyed by thousands.
Seattle
Seattle’s Diwali celebrations feature vibrant temple prayers, diverse cultural performances, and warm community gatherings highlighting joyous festivities.
Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s Indian Cultural Society hosts colorful Diwali festivals with rhythmic dance performances, traditional music, and mouth-watering Indian foods that attract people from all walks of life.
San Jose
Known as the Silicon Valley hub, San Jose celebrates Diwali with lively melas, traditional pujas, and a rich palette of cultural programs that bring the community together in joyous celebration.
FAQ
When is Diwali 2025 celebrated in the USA?
Diwali 2025 is celebrated on October 20, with Lakshmi Puja and key events on October 21 in the USA.
What is the Lakshmi Puja Muhurat time for Diwali 2025 in the USA?
The auspicious Lakshmi Puja Muhurat for Diwali 2025 in the USA is from 5:10 PM to 8:30 PM Eastern Daylight Time on October 21.
Where are the major Diwali events held in the USA?
Major Diwali events are held in cities like New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and Houston with cultural programs and community melas.