Diwali, the Hindu “Festival of Lights,” is one of the most celebrated holidays among Indian-American communities. Although it’s not a federal holiday in the United States, several states and cities have officially recognized Diwali in recent years — allowing schools to close or employees to take the day off. Growing compliance reflects America’s growing cultural diversity and inclusion.
Is Diwali a federal holiday in the US?
No – Diwali is not a federal holiday in the United States. Federal offices, courts and financial markets such as the NYSE and Nasdaq remain open. However, many states and school districts have begun to recognize Diwali, allowing students and state employees to celebrate without penalty.
Which US states officially recognize Diwali?
Several states have declared Diwali as an official public or school holiday:
1. California (from 2026)
California has become the third US state to designate Diwali as an official state holiday.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 268 (AB 268) in October 2024.
Effective Jan. 1, 2026, the law authorizes the closure of public schools and community colleges and allows state employees to take paid time off.
Diwali is also recognized for its significance to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists.
2. Pennsylvania (from 2024)
Pennsylvania became the first US state to declare Diwali an official state holiday in 2024.
While schools and offices do not have to close, civil servants can take the day off with pay.
Connecticut has added Diwali to its official list of state holidays, joining Pennsylvania and California in recognizing the festival across the country.
4. New York (New York City)
In 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a law making Diwali a state school holiday in New York.
For the first time in 2024, over a million students and teachers celebrated a day off for Diwali.
Several school districts in New Jersey (such as Edison and Jersey City) and Texas observe Diwali with school holidays or excused absences.
Diwali 2025 USA Dates
In 2025, Diwali and related celebrations will be held on these dates:
Main day of Diwali: 20 October
Govardhan Puja: 21 October
The main day of Diwali falls on Monday (October 20, 2025). Lakshmi Puja Muhurat in New York will be held from 19:17 to 20:45 local time.
Will businesses and stock markets close for Diwali?
No – Diwali is not a market or a holiday in the US. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq will remain open. Federal and most private offices are business as usual, although some companies with large Indian workforces may offer flexible schedules or cultural observances.
Read also | Diwali puja timings 2025: Check Lakshmi Puja muhurat, step by step vidhi and more
