Get ready to celebrate the Festival of Lights in California like never before! With Diwali becoming an official state holiday in 2025, Californians can expect grand festivities, cultural performances, and traditional delicacies, all along with a state holiday! Whether you’re in San Francisco or Sacramento, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s where you can celebrate Diwali this year in California.
California Declares Diwali A State Holiday 2025
Festivals are one of the ways through which people stay connected to their culture and roots after migrating to another country for work or studies. Indians form one of the largest migrant communities across the globe.
Showing respect towards this diaspora, many countries and states have declared Diwali (one of India’s biggest festivals) as a state or national holiday. In a historic move, the State legislature of California has approved AB 268. This is a bill that officially recognises Diwali as a state holiday.
Now, if Governor Gavin Newsom signs this bill by October 2025, Diwali will be officially added to California’s list of state holidays.
What Is AB 268?
According to the bill, AB 268, the state employees will be eligible for paid leave on Diwali. Schools and colleges can observe a holiday on Diwali after negotiating with their unions to designate Diwali as a day off.
Where To Celebrate Diwali In California
Bay Area Diwali Festival
The 23rd Annual Bay Area Diwali Festival of Lights is a free multicultural event that features a vibrant mix of food, music, and dance. Attendees can witness traditional Rangoli displays, henna art, artisanal vendors selling jewelry, clothing, and artwork, along with immersive cultural performances. With over 70 vendors and a kids zone featuring activities like painting diyas and a VR truck, it is a family-friendly event that attracts large crowds.
Date & Time: Saturday, 11 October 2025, 11 am to 6 pm
Venue: 21121 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino, CA 95014
Entry ticket price: Free entry
Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka
This event is a Diwali and Dusshera combined event organized by the Association of Indo Americans. It offers vibrant cultural performances, including traditional dance and music, alongside numerous food stalls. The aim is to provide a fun-filled, family-oriented atmosphere with activities for all ages. Dusshera Diwali Dhamaka highlights the rich cultural heritage and festive spirit of the Indian community in the Bay Area, serving as a major annual gathering for families and friends to celebrate together.
Date & Time: Saturday, 11 October 2025, 11 am to 6 pm
Venue: Valley Avenue #Gate 8, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Entry ticket price: $10.38 (~INR 664)
Where to book: You can book on Eventbrite.
“Bhangra & Beats” Night Market
The “Bhangra & Beats” Night Market represents San Francisco’s first official Diwali celebration at Sacramento & Front Streets downtown. This event features live performances, street food vendors, cocktails, and activities suitable for all ages, making it a vibrant urban festivity. This celebration combines traditional Bhangra music and dance with contemporary market-style vendors, offering a unique blend of cultural expression and social gathering.
Date & Time: Friday, October 24, 2025, 5 pm to 10 pm
Venue: San Francisco, CA 94111, United States
Entry ticket price: Free
Where to book: RSPV at Bhangra And Beats
Diwali Dublin Mela
It is hosted by the Hindu community of the Tri-Valley Bay Area and features a full day of cultural programs, traditional music, vibrant decorations, and delicious food stalls. This event is designed to immerse attendees in the spirit of Diwali, offering family-friendly activities and opportunities to celebrate the festival of lights together. It fosters community bonding and cultural heritage appreciation.
Date & Time: Saturday, October 18, 2025, 11 pm to 8 pm
Venue: 4201 Central Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 United States
Entry ticket price: Free Entry
Where to book: RSVP at Eventbrite
Singles Diwali 2025
Singles Diwali events are social mixers or parties tailored for single adults to celebrate Diwali in a lively, engaging atmosphere. These gatherings typically include music, dance, food, and opportunities for socializing, providing a fun way for singles to connect through cultural festivities. Such events emphasize community, entertainment, and the joy of festival celebrations in a relaxed setting.
Date & Time: Saturday, November 1, 2025,
Venue: Cotton Wood Creek Elementary School, 2400 Central Parkway, Dublin
Entry ticket price: $23-$30
Where to book: Book tickets at Sulekha Events
Summing Up
With Diwali becoming a state holiday, California is set to host numerous events and celebrations across the state. From cultural performances to traditional food, the festivities will surely transport you to your motherland, India. The best part is that these festivities are for people of all ages, so make sure that you do not miss them!
