Diwali declared a state holiday in Pennsylvania: Full list of US states that celebrate Diwali

The tradition of celebrating Diwali in the White House was started by then President George W. Bush in 2003. The tradition was taken ahead by Barack Obama, who lit a diya in the White House. Even Donald Trump and Joe Biden have marked this Indian festival by lighting a lamp, and even hosting a celebration in the White House.

Diwali, celebrated in late October or early November, is a major Hindu festival symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. While India celebrates it with much pomp and zeal, other countries, too, have assimilated the culture into their lives. Indians have migrated and settled abroad for various reasons, but they can never forget their homeland. Celebrating their festival in a foreign country serves as a strong connection to their roots, offering comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging in new homelands.

Celebrating events like Diwali, Holi, and Eid is more than a festive gathering—it is a way to preserve cultural identity in a foreign land. By observing these festivals, a sense of community and belonging is established. To promote inclusivity and honour diversity, several US states have declared Diwali as an official holiday. This effort is appreciated by the 4.8 million Indian Americans in the U.S, who make up 1.35% of the U.S. population. Let us look at the lfull ist of states that celebrate Diwali in the USA.

Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated to honor the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and his victory over the demon king Ravana. It signifies the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. People light oil lamps, burst fireworks, and decorate their homes to welcome prosperity and happiness. The festival also marks the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and the start of a new financial year for many businesses. Families come together to share sweets, gifts, and joyous moments.

Pennsylvania became the first U.S. state to officially recognize Diwali as a public holiday recently. Governor Josh Shapiro signed a bill into law that recognizes Diwali as an official holiday. As of 2020, there were 155,887 people of Indian origin in Pennsylvania, making it the largest AAPI- write fulll form-- ethnic group in the state. The Philadelphia region has the ninth-highest Indian population in the United States.

In 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation making Diwali a school holiday for New York City public schools. The legislation states that on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Indian calendar each year, all public schools in New York City will be closed. New York City has the largest Indian American population of any metropolitan area in the United States.

While Diwali holiday legislation has not been passed in New Jersey, several schools there grant students a day off on this Hindu festival. The demand to make the holiday official has been reverberating for a long time now. As of 2023, 4.6% of people recognized themselves as of Indian origin in the state?.

While Texas has no official holiday for Diwali, the festival is celebrated with enthusiasm due to the large Indian population there. Cultural events are organized with local support, sponsored by cities, and take place across the state.