California Declares Diwali a State Holiday, Third US State to Celebrate Festival of Lights

California has officially declared Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, a state holiday, becoming the third US state to do so after Pennsylvania and Connecticut. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the legislation into law on Tuesday, with the holiday set to take effect from January 1, 2026. The move allows public schools and community colleges to close on Diwali, while state employees can choose to take the day off. Students will also receive excused absences to celebrate the festival.

The bill was co-authored by Assembly members Ash Kalra of San Jose and Darshana Patel of San Diego, reflecting California’s growing recognition of its large and diverse South Asian population. According to a 2025 Pew survey, nearly one million Indian Americans live in California, accounting for roughly 20% of the US Indian population.

“To have South Asian children be able to celebrate and share it with others proudly is a significant moment,” said Ash Kalra. The legislation also acknowledges Diwali’s importance to Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, making it inclusive of various communities that celebrate the festival.

Hindu American organizations, including the Hindu American Foundation and the Coalition of Hindus in North America, played a pivotal role in advocating for the law. Samir Kalra, Managing Director of the Hindu American Foundation, emphasized the importance of allowing students to take the day off without repercussions and enabling state employees to take paid leave, calling it “an important step toward making Diwali truly accessible to all who celebrate it.”

Sacramento-based Puneet Kaur Sandhu, Senior State Policy Manager for the Sikh Coalition, highlighted the inclusivity of the legislation, noting that it ensures recognition for other religious communities whose holidays coincide with Diwali.

Diwali, which falls on October 20 this year, originates from the word “Deepavali,” meaning “a row of lights.” Traditionally, it is celebrated with rows of lamps symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Families mark the occasion with prayers, feasts, fireworks, and festive gatherings.

Rohit Shendrikar, Board Chair for the South Asian Network in Southern California, praised the law for recognizing the South Asian community’s contributions to the state. “I celebrate Diwali with my parents and children, and now we have the opportunity to share our traditions and customs with friends, strengthening bonds across California,” he said.

The declaration of Diwali as a state holiday underscores California’s commitment to diversity and cultural inclusion, honoring one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the South Asian diaspora.