Diwali 2026 falls on Sunday, 8 November — and for the Indian diaspora in the United States, the weekend timing makes it the best Diwali in years. From the Diwali celebration at Times Square to temple Lakshmi Pujas across the country, the festival of lights shines coast to coast. This NRIGlobe guide is your practical USA city guide to Diwali 2026 — dates and local muhurat, city events, where to buy diyas, school holidays, and fireworks rules.
For the Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja vidhi and mantras, see our partner site HinduTone’s Diwali 2026 guide. This page is the where-and-when for the USA.
Quick answer: Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) 2026 is on Sunday, 8 November. Perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening Pradosh Kaal; the weekend means bigger turnouts and easier family celebrations.
Diwali 2026 in the USA — At a Glance
- Main day: Sunday, 8 November 2026 (Lakshmi Puja); five days from Dhanteras (6 Nov) to Bhai Dooj (10 Nov)
- Where: temples, community melas and cultural events across all major metros
- School holidays: New York City public schools observe Diwali as a holiday; some other districts are following — check your district
- Fireworks: rules vary by state and city — many restrict consumer fireworks; check local law
City Celebrations
New York / New Jersey
The NY metro hosts the famous Diwali at Times Square celebration, plus large temple and community events across NJ (Edison/Iselin). NYC public schools now observe a Diwali holiday — a milestone for the community.
San Francisco Bay Area
Temple Lakshmi Pujas and community Diwali melas across the South Bay and East Bay, with cultural programs, food and fireworks displays where permitted.
Houston, Dallas & Chicago
Some of the largest Diwali melas in the country, with bazaars, performances and fireworks shows organised by Indian associations and temples.
Atlanta & Other Hubs
Vibrant celebrations in Atlanta, Seattle, Phoenix, the DC area and Boston — check local temple and association calendars for 2026 dates.
Where to Buy Diyas, Lights & Puja Supplies
- Indian grocery and pooja stores in every metro stock diyas, lights, rangoli colours and puja samagri
- US online retailers ship diyas, Lakshmi-Ganesh idols and decoration kits nationwide — order early
- Mainstream stores increasingly carry string lights and decor for the season
Fireworks & Safety
Consumer fireworks laws vary widely by state and city — some allow them, many restrict or ban them. Attend organised public fireworks displays where available, and never use fireworks where prohibited. Diyas and LED lights are a safe, beautiful alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Diwali 2026 in the USA?
Sunday, 8 November 2026 (Lakshmi Puja). The five days run from Dhanteras (6 Nov) to Bhai Dooj (10 Nov).
Do US schools have a Diwali holiday?
New York City public schools observe Diwali as a holiday, and some other districts are considering it — check your local district.
Where can I buy diyas and puja supplies?
At Indian grocery/pooja stores and US online retailers that ship nationwide — order early.
Where can I find the puja vidhi?
See HinduTone’s Diwali 2026 guide for the Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja vidhi and mantras.
Final Word
Diwali 2026 in the USA — on a Sunday — is set to be the brightest yet. Plan your Lakshmi Puja for the evening, find your city’s mela or Times Square celebration, order diyas early, and light up your home. Shubh Deepavali!
Related Reading on NRIGlobe
- Diwali 2026 Abroad: Global Dates, City Events & NRI Guide
- Where to Buy Diyas, Lights & Puja Supplies Abroad 2026
- HinduTone — Diwali 2026: Lakshmi Puja Vidhi & Significance
- Indian Festivals Abroad 2026: The Complete NRI Calendar & City Guide
