Why Diwali's date changes
Diwali follows the Hindu lunisolar calendar and falls on the new-moon night (Amavasya) of the month of Kartika. That usually lands between mid-October and mid-November. Dates can vary by region and community. The table uses the widely observed main day of celebration.
Upcoming Diwali dates
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, November 8, 2026 |
| 2027 | Friday, October 29, 2027 |
| 2028 | Tuesday, October 17, 2028 |
Five days of festivities
Diwali celebrations usually span about five days, beginning with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj. The main night centers on Lakshmi Puja, diyas (oil lamps), rangoli designs, sweets, and gatherings with family.
Questions
When is Diwali this year?
See the table on this page for the main day of Diwali in upcoming years. Regional observances can differ by a day.
Why is it called the Festival of Lights?
Homes and streets are lit with oil lamps and candles to celebrate the victory of light over darkness.
Can I put this countdown on a big screen?
Yes. Open the page on a TV, projector, or laptop and use your browser's full-screen mode. The counter keeps updating while the page is open.
More countdowns
Counting down to something else? Use the custom date countdown.