Diwali celebrations especially looked forward to the sweets and fireworks, the best part is the sense of togetherness. Diwali, one of India’s most significant religious and cultural holidays, is “a time to reconnect with family and friends, and to engage in prayers for prosperity and well-being.”

Observed by Hindus, as well as Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists, Diwali marks the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. It’s celebrated across South Asia and in countries with large South Asian diasporas like the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

The  specific dates vary based on the Hindu lunar calendar. One billion people celebrate worldwide, including millions in the United States.

Diwali festivities in the U.S. include traditional dance at the Hindu Temple  and traditional dress and fireworks in the City, ‘Inviting positivity into your house’.
During Diwali, family and friends exchange gifts and sweets, while homes, temples and businesses are decorated with diyas and fireworks light up the sky.

Diwali celebrations involve many of the same traditions as those in India. Families clean their homes to prepare for guests and break out their traditional garb: colorful saris for women and flowing kurta for men. On Diwali’s first day, also known as Dhanteras, celebrants purchase gold and silver jewelry or utensils for prosperity.

While diyas left outside homes are intended to attract Lakshmi, a goddess who confers wealth and prosperity wherever she encounters light, Gupta says the holiday also celebrates “spiritual growth and [the importance] of community, charity and gratitude.”

“People go out and give blankets and food to the homeless,” . “Whatever they have, they are grateful for.”

They make the traditional Indian sweet laddu from flour, sugar and butter. Other treats commonly served during Diwali are barfi, similar to fudge, and crispy fried, syrup-soaked flour spirals called jalebi.

The family also prepares “a balance of different foods,”which might include savory snacks like vegetable samosas and grilled paneer wraps served before a main dish of curry.

“Diwali is as prominent festival in Indian culture  Family and friends, Hindus visit each other’s homes to enjoy a familiar holiday or learn about a different culture. “It’s about inviting positivity inside your house, while banishing darkness and negativity.”