Diwali Now a School Holiday in New York City: What You Need to Know

New York City’s public school students are observing a new holiday this year, as Diwali, the “Festival of Lights,” has been added to the school calendar. For the first time, students will have Friday, November 1, off to celebrate this significant holiday observed by Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide.

Diwali, which originated in India over 2,500 years ago, is a celebration of light over darkness. The holiday is marked by millions globally, including the 600,000 Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist residents of New York City. Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar, a Hindu Indian American, led the legislative efforts to establish Diwali as a school holiday after decades of advocacy by the South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities.

The inclusion of Diwali in the school calendar reflects New York City’s growing diversity, following the addition of other holidays such as Lunar New Year, Eid, and Juneteenth. This move is part of the city’s efforts to recognize and celebrate the diverse cultural backgrounds of its residents.

For those interested in celebrating Diwali in NYC, several events are scheduled. The Bhakti Center’s Diwali Festival in the East Village will feature traditional Indian dance performances, Indian street food, henna and face painting. Additionally, the Seaport Museum will host activities such as creating marigold-inspired decorations and diya lamps, along with a Diwali Puppet Storytime.

However, celebrators need to be cautious due to the dry conditions in the area, which could lead to the spread of wildfires. The region has been experiencing an ongoing dry spell, making fire safety a significant concern during the festivities.