Diwali 2026
The festival of lights, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and many Buddhists with lamps, fireworks, sweets and prayers for prosperity.
Quick facts
- Date
- Date varies each year
- Day of the week
- Sunday in 2026
- Type
- Religious, Celebration
- Observed in
- Global, India, Nepal
- Also known as
- Deepavali, Festival of Lights
- Observed by
- Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Newar Buddhists worldwide
- Public holiday
- Public holiday in India, Nepal, Singapore, Malaysia and others
- Hashtag
- #HappyDiwali
Overview
Diwali, or Deepavali, is one of the most important festivals in India and for Indian communities around the world. Homes and streets are lit with oil lamps (diyas), candles and electric lights, families draw colourful rangoli patterns at their doorsteps, and people exchange sweets and gifts.
The main day falls on the new moon (Amavasya) of the Hindu month of Kartika, usually in October or November. Celebrations often run over five days, from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj.
History
Diwali has many stories behind it. In northern India it celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. In many regions it honours Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and good fortune. Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, remembering the release of Guru Hargobind from prison, and Jains mark the nirvana of Mahavira. Across traditions the festival symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
How to celebrate
Light diyas
Place oil lamps or candles at doors and windows after sunset.
Draw a rangoli
Make a colourful pattern with powders, rice or flower petals at the entrance.
Share sweets
Exchange boxes of mithai with neighbours, friends and colleagues.
Celebrate greener
Choose low-smoke celebrations or community light shows to protect air quality.
Traditions and customs
India
Lakshmi Puja is performed in the evening; many businesses start a new financial year with Chopda Pujan.
Nepal
Tihar lasts five days and honours crows, dogs, cows and the bond between brothers and sisters.
Sikh communities
The Golden Temple in Amritsar is illuminated for Bandi Chhor Divas.
Wishes and messages
Greeting card
A 1080 × 1080 image, ready for WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram.
Social media captions
Lights, love and laddoos. 🪔 #HappyDiwali
Light over darkness, always.
Home is glowing tonight. ✨
Diwali dates
| Year | Date | Day of the week | Days from today |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | November 8 | Sunday | 6 |
| 2027 | October 29 | Friday | 361 |
| 2028 | To be announced | ||
| 2029 | To be announced | ||
| 2030 | To be announced | ||
| 2031 | To be announced | ||
This date follows a lunar or announced calendar. Dates shown are expected dates and can shift by a day depending on local moon sighting or official announcement.
Frequently asked questions
When is Diwali in 2026?
The main day of Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) is expected on November 8, 2026. Dates can differ by a day between regions.
Why is Diwali celebrated?
It celebrates the victory of light over darkness — including Rama's return to Ayodhya, the worship of Lakshmi, Bandi Chhor Divas for Sikhs and Mahavira's nirvana for Jains.
How long does Diwali last?
Celebrations usually last five days, from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj.
Last updated November 2, 2026