Diwali in USA 2024 - Which states in the US have Diwali holidays - Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated with vibrancy and devotion not only in India but also across countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, thanks to their large Indian communities.
Diwali in USA 2024 - Which states in the US have Diwali holidays
In recent years, Diwali has gained formal recognition globally, with states like Pennsylvania in the USA now officially observing it as a state holiday.
Major cities across these nations, from New York and London to Toronto, host spectacular Diwali events, allowing diverse communities to come together in celebration. This growing recognition highlights Diwali's universal appeal as a celebration of light, unity, and cultural heritage.
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Diwali Celebrations Abroad: Recognized Significance in the USA, UK, and Canada
Diwali is celebrated with enthusiasm not only in India but also around the world, particularly in countries with significant Indian populations such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. The cultural importance of Diwali is increasingly recognized, with formal observances and community events marking the festival.
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Pennsylvania: Official Recognition of Diwali
- Recently, Pennsylvania became the latest U.S. state to recognize Diwali as an official state holiday, following bipartisan support for legislation signed by Governor Josh Shapiro.
- This law designates Diwali as a holiday on the 15th day of Kartik in the Hindu lunisolar calendar, with the next observance from October 31 to November 1.
- Although the law does not mandate school or government office closures, it stands as a significant acknowledgment of Diwali's cultural importance.
Diwali Celebrations Across the United States
Diwali’s significance has led to its recognition in various states across the USA, with some even declaring it a holiday. Here are a few notable examples:
New York:
- In 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill designating Diwali as a holiday for New York City public schools. This mandates that schools will remain closed on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Indian calendar.
New Jersey:
- While New Jersey has not yet formalized Diwali as a state holiday, many schools recognize its significance by allowing students a day off. Notably, approximately 4.6% of the state's residents are of Indian descent, underlining Diwali’s cultural impact.
Pennsylvania:
- Pennsylvania made headlines as the first U.S. state to officially honor Diwali as a state holiday, setting a historical precedent with Governor Josh Shapiro’s signing.
United Kingdom: Diwali in Major Cities
While Diwali is not a formal public holiday in the UK, it is widely celebrated, especially in cities with a substantial Indian community. Cities that celebrate Diwali with grand events and decorations include:
- Leicester
- Belfast
- London
- Edinburgh
- Birmingham
These cities host Diwali fairs, fireworks, and cultural performances, bringing together communities to celebrate the Festival of Lights.
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Canada: Observing Diwali Across Provinces
In Canada, Diwali is not a statutory holiday but is recognized as a key cultural event, with many schools and workplaces offering accommodations for those who wish to observe the festival.
- Many Canadian cities and communities host Diwali celebrations, including cultural performances and fireworks displays.
- Most schools and businesses are mindful of Diwali, with some even organizing events to honor the festival.
Global Recognition of Diwali: A Growing Cultural Phenomenon
The acknowledgment of Diwali as a cultural holiday abroad illustrates its importance as a symbol of Indian heritage and spiritual values. As more states and cities embrace Diwali with official observances, the festival continues to foster inclusivity, community bonding, and cultural understanding around the world.
