Diwali, which celebrates the victory of light over darkness, is observed on October 20 this year. According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile on the day of Diwali. As we near the Festival of Lights, here’s a look at the top ten places to celebrate Diwali in the United States, as per TimeOut. New York City EventGuru has been organizing an event called Diwali at Times Square in Times Square, New York since 2013. Bollywood music, Indian food and exciting performances are all part of this free event. Hip-hop, jazz and Punjabi music will be played at the Met Museum to commemorate the festival. On October 24, Brooklyn-based band Red Baraat is expected to put on a stellar performance at the event. Meanwhile, celebrity chef Vikas Khanna will join the Asia Society on October 18 to read excerpts from his children’s book Festivals at the Bungalow, as per TimeOut. Philadelphia The Nepali community celebrates Tihar on the same day as Diwali. On October 19, young South Asians will gather in Philadelphia to commemorate both holidays with fun games, Bollywood, Nepali music and food at the Speakeasy-style Midnight & the Wicked. Tickets start at $45. Washington, DC The National Museum of Asian Art will host an evening of live music, dance and hands-on activities on October 24 from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm to celebrate Diwali. Food from famous shops like Rasa, Himalayan Soul Food and CHA Street Food will be available at the event. Gallery 16ten is hosting a lively Diwali evening with traditional music, brilliant decor and seasonal cuisine on Sunday 19 October at 7pm. For the occasion, guests are requested to wear festive and colorful attire. The cost of the tickets is $28.52. San Francisco In downtown San Francisco, the Bhangra & Beats Night Market is back, offering a vibrant mix of Indian street food, handcrafted beverages and signature local artisans against the brilliant cityscape. After a July summer edition, the series returns on October 24 as the official Diwali celebration for the City and County of San Francisco. Seattle On October 18, Seattle Center’s Armory Food & Event Hall will host Diwali: Lights of India, a celebration that will light up the city. Music, dance, martial arts, food demonstrations and visual art will all be showcased at this free event to highlight India’s diverse cultural customs. Chicago The 6th Annual Diwali Mela will be held at Chicago’s National India Hub in Schaumburg. It will feature live music, cultural performances, dance competitions and fashion shows. Los Angeles Don Knabe Regional Park in Cerritos hosts the SoCal Diwali Festival, which includes garba dancing, live music, fashion shows, festive shopping and delicious food. Houston A free, family-friendly festival at the Asia Society Texas Center on October 26 offers a wide variety of cultural events, such as arts and crafts, traditional dance performances and a captivating Ramayana recreation. Atlanta The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra presents the Visions of India Festival on October 23rd and 25th. It features live music, Indian cuisine, henna tattoo artists and traditional dancers. Dallas A spectacular Ram Leela reenactment, live music and dance performances, a magnificent fashion show and fairground rides are all part of the magnificent Diwali Mela, which takes place on October 18 at Myers Park & Event Center in McKinney, Texas. Frequently Asked Questions When is Diwali this year? Diwali is on October 20 this year. What is Diwali celebrated for? Diwali is observed to celebrate the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. When will Tihar be celebrated this year? Tihar is celebrated from October 19 to October 23 this year.
Where to Celebrate Diwali in the US? From New York City to Dallas, here are the 10 best spots
