California is set to recognize Diwali as an official state holiday in 2026, marking a historic move that will grant residents a day off to celebrate the Indian and South Asian Festival of Lights. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill in October, ensuring public schools, community colleges, and state employees can observe the holiday. The festival, which honors the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, will fall on Sunday, November 8, next year. Since it coincides with a weekend, the holiday will be observed on Monday, November 9.
This development is especially significant for California, which is home to approximately 960,000 Indian Americans—nearly 20% of the country’s Indian diaspora. Diwali, celebrated across Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and some Buddhist communities, is not just a religious observance but also a cultural celebration emphasizing knowledge, prosperity, and spiritual renewal. The Bay Area, in particular, hosts the largest Diwali festivals in North America, featuring music, dance, food, fireworks, and community gatherings.
Diwali is now joining the ranks of other official California state holidays, including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. With only Connecticut and Pennsylvania previously recognizing Diwali as a state holiday, California’s inclusion reflects the growing recognition of Indian-American cultural contributions.
Governor Newsom shared his festive wishes, highlighting Diwali as a celebration of “the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.” Prominent leaders, including former President Donald Trump, also acknowledged the festival’s significance, praising it as a time for community, family, and hope. This milestone holiday will allow millions of Americans to partake in Diwali celebrations, from lighting diyas and lanterns to engaging in cultural events, reinforcing the state’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
