Pennsylvania has become the first U.S. state to officially recognize Diwali as a state holiday after bipartisan legislation signed by Governor Josh Shapiro. This new law acknowledges Diwali’s importance in Pennsylvania, a state with a growing Indian community. Though government offices, schools, and businesses will remain open, the designation highlights the cultural significance of Diwali. The law follows similar moves in other states, marking the 15th day of Kartik in the Hindu lunisolar calendar as Diwali. The first official celebration will take place from October 31 to November 1.
Other states have also taken steps to recognize Diwali. New York, for example, has made Diwali an official school holiday for public schools in New York City, with schools closing for the 15th day of the Indian calendar's eighth month. In New Jersey, while there is no statewide holiday, many schools grant students a day off to observe Diwali, reflecting the 4.6% Indian-origin population in the state.
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Diwali celebrations have grown in the United Kingdom, though it is not an official public holiday. Major cities such as Leicester, Belfast, London, Edinburgh, and Birmingham mark the festival with colorful events and gatherings. In Canada, while Diwali isn’t a public holiday, the festival is widely recognized, and schools and workplaces often allow for observances or organize events. The global spread of Diwali celebrations underscores the festival's importance, as communities worldwide come together to celebrate this vibrant cultural tradition.
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