Archive · 22 Aug 2026
California Assembly Recognizes November 8, 2026, as Diwali Day
California’s State Assembly adopted a resolution about Diwali.
It recognizes November 8, 2026, as Diwali Day.
The resolution asks people in California to join the celebration.
Diwali is also called Deepavali, meaning “a row of lamps.”
Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains celebrate it in many places.
People often use candles, lanterns and clay lamps during the festival.
Fireworks are also part of traditional celebrations.
Diwali is connected with the idea that good can overcome evil and encourages kindness, wisdom and positivity.
The resolution also honors Indian American and South Asian communities.
The California State Assembly adopted a resolution recognizing November 8, 2026, as Diwali Day.
The resolution encourages Californians to participate in the Festival of Lights celebration.
Assembly members Darshana Patel and Ash Kalra introduced or moved the resolution.
It expresses respect for Indian Americans and the wider Indian diaspora in California and worldwide.
The resolution highlights Diwali’s themes of knowledge, growth, kindness, unity, prosperity and reflection.
- Who
- The California State Assembly, with Assembly members Darshana Patel and Ash Kalra introducing or moving the resolution.
- What
- The Assembly adopted a resolution recognizing November 8, 2026, as Diwali Day and encouraging Californians to celebrate.
- When
- The resolution was adopted on Thursday; reports were published on August 22, 2026, and the recognized festival falls on Sunday, November 8, 2026.
- Where
- California, United States.
- Why
- To recognize Diwali, encourage participation in its celebrations, and honor Indian American and South Asian communities and their cultural contributions.
- Recognized date
- Sunday, November 8, 2026
- Festival
- Diwali, also called Deepavali or the Festival of Lights
- Recognizing body
- California State Assembly
- Resolution sponsors
- Assembly members Darshana Patel and Ash Kalra
- Celebrating communities
- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains
- Traditional symbols
- Candles, oil lanterns, clay lamps and fireworks
- Highlighted themes
- Knowledge, growth, happiness, generosity, unity, kindness, peace, prosperity and reflection
