Diwali 2026: Date, 5-Day Calendar, Meaning and How It Is Celebrated

Diwali 2026 falls on Sunday, 8 November 2026. Also called Deepavali, the festival of lights is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and among Indian communities around the world. This guide covers the dates for all five days, what Diwali means, how people celebrate it, and what to expect if you are joining a celebration for the first time.

Dates below follow common panchang calculations and can differ by a day depending on your city and the panchang you follow. Please confirm with a local panchang or your temple before planning rituals. Puja timings vary by location, so exact muhurat times are not listed here.

Diwali 2026 Dates: The 5-Day Calendar

The main Diwali night is observed on the new moon (Amavasya) of the month of Kartika, which is why the date moves between October and November each year.

What Does Diwali Mean?

The word Deepavali comes from Sanskrit and means a row of lamps. At its heart, Diwali is about the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival is observed by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, and each tradition connects it with different stories.

Why Is Diwali Celebrated?

There is no single origin story. Different regions and communities remember different events:

• North India: Many people link Diwali with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years in exile, when the city is said to have been lit with lamps.
• South India: The day before is often associated with Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura.
• East India: In Bengal and nearby regions, the night is devoted to the goddess Kali.
• Gujarat and western India: The day after Diwali marks the start of a new year in the local calendar, and traders traditionally open fresh account books.
• Jain tradition: Diwali is connected with the nirvana of Mahavira.
• Sikh tradition: Bandi Chhor Divas remembers the release of Guru Hargobind Ji and is celebrated around the same time.

These accounts are traditions and beliefs passed down in each community, and people often observe Diwali for more than one reason.

The Five Days of Diwali Explained

Day 1: Dhanteras

Dhanteras marks the start of the festival. Many families buy a small item of gold, silver or a new utensil, which is considered auspicious in tradition. Lamps are lit in the evening, and homes are cleaned in preparation. Read more in our Dhanteras guide (Hindi).

Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi

Also known as Choti Diwali, this day is associated with the defeat of evil. People often take an early-morning bath and light lamps at dusk.

Day 3: Diwali and Lakshmi Puja

This is the main day. Families clean and decorate their homes, wear new clothes, light diyas, and perform puja to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha in the evening, seeking prosperity and wisdom according to belief. Sweets are shared, and fireworks are traditionally part of the night. Our Diwali guide in Hindi has more on the puja.

Day 4: Govardhan Puja

This day remembers the story of Krishna lifting Govardhan hill. Many homes prepare a large spread of vegetarian dishes called Annakut as an offering. In Gujarat this is also New Year’s Day.

Day 5: Bhai Dooj

Siblings celebrate their bond. Sisters apply a tilak on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their wellbeing, and brothers give gifts in return.

How People Celebrate Diwali

• Lighting diyas and string lights along windows, doorways and balconies.
• Rangoli: colourful patterns made with powder, flowers or rice at the entrance.
• Sweets and snacks: laddoo, barfi, gujiya, jalebi and savoury snacks are made at home or exchanged as gifts.
• New clothes and gifts for family and friends.
• Puja at home or in the temple on Lakshmi Puja night.
• Fireworks: a long-running tradition, though many cities now restrict them for air quality. Check your local rules.

Diwali Outside India

Diwali is celebrated by Indian communities in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Fiji and many other places. Community centres, temples and cultural groups often hold events on the nearest weekend. In several countries it is also publicly recognised, with civic events and greetings. If your city has a large Indian community, look for local temple or cultural society announcements.

Tips If You’re Joining a Diwali Celebration

• Bring sweets, dry fruits or a small gift for the hosts. Avoid leather items in some households.
• Many guests wear festive Indian or bright formal clothing, but any neat, modest outfit is welcome.
• Remove shoes before entering the home or puja area unless the host says otherwise.
• It is polite to accept a small sweet when offered.

Diwali Wishes

• Wishing you a Diwali filled with light, laughter and love.
• May the festival of lights brighten your home and your year ahead. Happy Diwali!
• Warm wishes to you and your family for a safe, joyful and prosperous Diwali.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the date of Diwali in 2026?

Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) is on Sunday, 8 November 2026, according to common panchang calculations. Confirm with a local panchang.

How many days is Diwali?

Diwali is traditionally a five-day festival, from Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj.

Is Diwali a national holiday in India?

Diwali is widely observed as a public holiday across India. Holiday lists are issued by governments and employers each year, so check the official list for your state or workplace.

Why does the date of Diwali change every year?

Diwali follows the Hindu lunar calendar and falls on the new moon of Kartika, so the date shifts in the Gregorian calendar.