This year, Diwali will be celebrated around the world on November 7. For those who are unfamiliar with the Hindu holiday, Diwali is the festival of lights, and it symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is traditionally a five-day holiday, although most celebrate it only on the third day, which always coincides with the last day of the dark fortnight of the lunar month.
More About the Holiday
The story of Diwali comes from Hindu mythology and is representative of the return of Lord Ram from his 14-year exile, along with his kidnapped wife Sita and brother Lakshman, and his defeat of the demon-king Ravana. In joyous celebration of the return of their king, it is said that the people of Ayodhya illuminated the kingdom with oil lamps and set off firecrackers to welcome him home.
People celebrate Diwali by cleaning their homes and decorating them with lamps, lights and other festive decorations to welcome good wishes into their homes for the upcoming year. On the day of Diwali, it is traditional to wear new clothes in preparation for the celebration and the forthcoming year. Or, as most people view it — an excuse to go shopping. The holiday is celebrated by families during the day by paying respects to the goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and concludes with delicious foods, fireworks, and sparklers to end the night.
Pro Tip: If you’d like to leave a light on somewhere in your home overnight on Diwali {even a night light or decorative lights} it is said to bring good wishes for the next year!
Local Events
READ: Volunteer Opportunities in Hoboken + Jersey City {November 2018}
There are a few great events in and around Hudson County for those wishing to partake in Diwali celebrations. Check them out below:
Sparkles Diwali Bash {W Hotel} November 3rd
This Saturday, November 3, enjoy an evening of food, fun, and dancing at the annual Sparkles Diwali Bash hosted at the W Hotel in Hoboken. Ticket price includes a 3-course buffet, entertainment with a DJ and live music, breakout rooms for children’s entertainment with caretakers on site and fun goodie bags for all. Note: Children under two are admitted for free! Get more information here.
Diwali Cruise {NYC} November 3rd
If a yacht party is more your speed, check out the Diwali Cruise {leaving from NYC} on Saturday, November 3. This 21+ event is sure to be a glitzy evening with spectacular views, onboard entertainment, and food and drinks. Get more information here.
Hoboken Diwali Festival {Hoboken} November 10th
On Saturday, November 10th Hoboken will host its first Diwali Festival at the Hoboken Elks Club {1005 Washington Street} from 2:00PM-6:00PM. Enjoy music, food, a cash bar, henna tattoos, and more. Entry is free and the event is family friendly.
Hudson Terrace Diwali Celebration {NYC} November 14th
On Wednesday, November 14, you can celebrate Diwali on the Hudson at Hudson Terrace in NYC with an open bar, dinner, and entertainment. 100% of ticket sale proceeds benefit the Desai Foundation, which empowers women and children through community programs intended to elevate health and livelihood in India and the United States. Get more information here.
And of course – there is no better time to indulge with authentic Indian food from one of the many restaurants in Hoboken and Jersey City. Happy Diwali!
How and where will you be celebrating Diwali? Share with us in the comments below!
Have you joined our Facebook group yet? Request here to gain access to even more local tips, and connect with fellow Hudson County residents.
