Diwali 2026: New York, Toronto Formally Recognise November 8 as Festival of Lights

New York State and Toronto have formally recognised November 8 as Diwali, acknowledging the cultural contributions of South Asian communities across the United States and Canada. Several political leaders, including governors, mayors and lawmakers, have also extended festive greetings and joined community celebrations.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a proclamation on October 26, designating November 8 as Diwali — “The Festival of Lights”. India's Consulate General in New York shared a photograph of the proclamation on Saturday and thanked the governor for recognising the contributions of Indian Americans.

The proclamation describes Diwali as “a deeply meaningful annual observance” celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists across the world. It also acknowledges the leadership and civic contributions of New York's South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities.

Toronto Declares November 8 as Diwali Day

In Canada, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow proclaimed November 8 as “Diwali Day” on behalf of the city council.

The declaration recognises the longstanding cultural, social, economic and civic contributions of South Asian communities in Toronto, reflecting the city's motto, “Diversity Our Strength”.

Toronto has also designated November as Hindu Heritage Month.

Meanwhile, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith celebrated Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas with members of the Hindu and Sikh communities in Calgary on Saturday.

“What a great afternoon celebrating these festivals of light, freedom and hope with so many friends from Alberta's Hindu and Sikh communities,” she wrote on X, thanking the Hindu Society of Calgary and Dashmesh Culture Centre Calgary.

Canadian Leaders Extend Diwali Greetings

Canada's Treasury Board President and Brampton MP Shafqat Ali shared a post on Saturday about visiting Hindu Sabha Temple with Foreign Minister Anita Anand. He did not specify when the visit took place.

Describing the celebration as a reflection of light, hope and unity, Ali thanked the temple for bringing the community together.

Anand had celebrated Diwali on Parliament Hill on October 28 alongside colleague Gary Anandasangaree. Recalling her childhood traditions, she said seeing them embraced in public life was particularly meaningful.

“From small-town Nova Scotia to the heart of Canada's democracy, seeing the traditions I grew up with celebrated here is especially touching,” she wrote.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford also highlighted the importance of charitable giving in an October 24 post about attending the Trillium Diwali Gala in support of Trillium Health Partners.

“Diwali reminds us of the importance of giving back to our communities,” Ford wrote, thanking participants for supporting healthcare across Ontario.

US Governors, Lawmakers Mark Diwali

In the United States, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro extended greetings to Hindu, Jain and Sikh residents celebrating Diwali, Tihar and Bandi Chhor Divas.

“This celebration is a time of unity, compassion, and acceptance,” he wrote in a Friday post, adding that he and his wife, Lori, wished everyone a joyous Festival of Lights.

Congressman Frank Pallone of New Jersey highlighted his association with the state's Hindu community, saying he was proud to celebrate alongside its members.

Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin also sent greetings to people celebrating in the state and across the country.

“May the festival of lights bring peace, hope, and happiness,” she wrote on Friday.

North Carolina, Washington Issue Diwali Proclamations

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein's proclamation designated November 8 as Diwali and October as Hindu Heritage Month. Signed on September 25, it recognises the contributions of Indian Americans to the state's economy, history and culture.

The proclamation states that the state's “vibrant Hindu American community has contributed tremendously to the vitality of the state of North Carolina by enriching the lives of its people”.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson also said in a Friday post that he had proclaimed November 8 as Diwali. He referred to a celebration held earlier that week at the Legislative Building with the Indian Consulate and state Senator Manka Dhingra.

“To everyone starting their celebration of Diwali today, I hope you have a wonderful festival,” Ferguson wrote.

Mayor Patsy Cudaback of Monroe, Washington, also proclaimed November 8 as Diwali — The Festival of Lights Day, encouraging residents to recognise the festival's cultural richness, community contributions and enduring values.

Brampton Mayor Shares Diwali Shopping Moment

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown shared a personal glimpse of the festivities on Saturday, posting about shopping for Diwali sweets at India Taste on Ray Lawson Boulevard.

“My friend Ranjit Singh always puts on an incredible Diwali display,” he wrote.

Meanwhile, the City of Calgary combined its Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas greetings with a public safety reminder. In an October 28 notice, Glenn Baxter, fire marshal with the Calgary Fire Department, extended wishes to residents celebrating the festivals.

The city reminded residents that personal fireworks are prohibited and encouraged them to celebrate by lighting diyas safely, decorating with festive lights and attending community events.

Diwali Celebrated Across Communities Worldwide

Diwali is observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhist communities, although its religious significance and traditions vary across faiths.

Lighting lamps, exchanging sweets and gathering with family and friends are among the common ways people mark the festival. The proclamations in New York, Toronto and several other North American cities recognise the contributions of communities that have helped make Diwali a prominent public celebration beyond India.