In the coming days, Diwali, also known as Deepavali, or the Hindu festival of lights will be celebrated by approximately one billion people worldwide, including in the U.S.
Diwali follows the lunar calendar and this year the main holiday falls on Oct. 31. Diwali traditionally lasts five days, although many people observe one day of celebrations depending on where they live and how they celebrate.
Diwali is often a celebration associated with hope and the victory of good over evil. It’s not just celebrated by Indians and Hindus — Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists also celebrate Diwali. In India, people will place garlands of flowers around statues of deities, decorate their houses with lamps and light paths and streets leading to temples with oil lamps at night. Sometimes there are even fireworks.
Here in San Diego there are several events you can attend to celebrate the Festival of Lights. Check them out below.
