The Association of Indians in America–New York (AIA-NY) is preparing to welcome families and communities to its 39th Annual Deepavali Festival on October 3, 2026, at Overlook Beach in Babylon, Long Island. The celebration will bring together Indian Americans and visitors from across the New York metropolitan region for a day dedicated to culture, tradition and community spirit.
Scheduled from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the event will offer free admission and parking, making it accessible to families and guests of all backgrounds. Organizers are inviting attendees to experience the Festival of Lights through music, dance, food, art and entertainment.
Deepavali, widely celebrated across India and around the world, symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. AIA-NY’s annual gathering seeks to preserve this cultural heritage while introducing Indian traditions to younger generations and the wider American community.
The 2026 program will feature performances spanning Indian classical, folk and Bollywood dance, with local students and performers taking the stage. London-based artist Arjun Coomaraswamy, known professionally as Arjun, is scheduled to deliver a live evening performance. The lineup will also include a Kathak and Ramayana presentation by Pandit S.N. Charka of the East-West School of Dance.
Audiences can enjoy Bhangra, Giddha, Ghoomar, Garba and Dandiya performances, alongside children’s art activities, rangoli-making sessions, entertainment and family-oriented attractions. Health and wellness activities will add another dimension to the festival.
Food lovers will find traditional Indian refreshments and popular favorites, including samosas, masala chai, rotis and sweets. A Meena Bazaar will offer clothing, jewelry, gifts, handicrafts and other Indian merchandise, creating opportunities for visitors to shop while celebrating.
Religious and cultural traditions will remain central to the program. The festivities will begin with an invocation to Lord Ganesha and conclude with Lakshmi Aarti, reflecting wishes for prosperity, peace and well-being. A grand fireworks display is planned for approximately 7:15 p.m.
Beena Kothari, president of AIA-NY, described Deepavali as a celebration of light, unity, heritage and community. She invited families and friends from across the region to participate in an inclusive gathering showcasing India’s cultural diversity.
The event is supported by volunteers, sponsors, businesses and community members who continue to help sustain this longstanding tradition.
