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Where to celebrate Diwali 2025 in California? We found out!
Here are the finest Diwali events and cultural programs taking place in California this year. Bookmark this guide for some festive fun!
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Pallavi Mehra - Tue, 14, Oct 2025
- 23:33 EDT
- 24
Representative Image / Pexels
The sparkle of a million little diyas is set to descend upon the Golden State as California prepares for a glorious Diwali 2025 celebration. This year holds a special significance, as Diwali has recently been recognized as an official state holiday, further honoring the deep cultural impact of the South Asian community.
Across the state, the Indian American diaspora is preparing colorful, large-scale public festivals, spiritual temple gatherings, and family-friendly cultural events. Whether you are looking for the dazzling energy of a Los Angeles mega-mela or the quiet beauty of a Bay Area temple observance, this guide details the finest spots to join the festive fun.
The top Diwali 2025 festivities in Southern California are:
Diwali Dunz hosted by Sevasphere
When: Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: The Walnut Building, 691 Mill St. in Los Angeles
Highlights: Diwali Dunz is offering hands-on cultural and educational workshops, live music and dance, food and shopping stalls. General admission costs $30, VIP tickets sell for $60 and a general admission ticket with a play pass (which includes 10 classes) costs $150. A complete list of ticket offerings can be found online.
Festival of Unity hosted by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha
When: Oct. 18–21
Where: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, 15100 Fairfield Ranch Road in Chino Hills
Highlights: A multi-day celebration featuring traditional rituals for Dhanteras, Diwali, and Annakut, with a full itinerary of offered activities found online.
Five-day Diwali festivities at the Jain Center of Southern California
When: Events are planned from Oct. 18 through Oct. 22.
Where: Jain Center of Southern California at 8072 Commonwealth Ave., Buena Park
Highlights: The Jain Center of Southern California has planned five days of celebrations. A complete list of offerings and times can be found online.
The top the Diwali 2025 festivities in Northern California are:
When: Saturday, Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Washington High School, Fremont
Highlights: This huge festival offers over 100 vendors, live Bollywood dance shows, and a complete cultural experience.
When: Saturday, Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Emerald Glen Park Amphitheater, Dublin
Highlights: A massive, community-driven event that culminates with a spectacular aarti (prayer ceremony).
Diwali at the Outer Sunset Farmers Market
When: Sunday, Oct. 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 37th Avenue, San Francisco
Highlights: A unique San Francisco celebration featuring a Rangoli workshop, henna, and special Diwali treats amidst the farmers market.
BAPS Temple Lakshmi Puja and Annakut
When: Lakshmi Puja on Monday, Oct. 20; Annakut on Sunday, Oct. 26
Where: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Mather (Sacramento)
Highlights: Traditional temple rituals on the main days of the festival, including the Annakut (mountain of food) offering.
As California celebrates the Festival of Lights, the sheer scale and diversity of these celebrations offer something for everyone. From the historic significance of the main Diwali day on October 20th to the fun of street fairs and the quiet contemplation of temple prayers, the state is set to shine brightly.
We encourage you to light your diyas, gather your friends and family, and partake in the joy that symbolizes hope, prosperity, and the ultimate victory of goodness. Happy Diwali from team New India Abroad!
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