Diwali is a time to welcome a new year, happiness and prosperity. It is a festival of lights that follows the lunar calendar and is similar to a new year celebration. Diwali is one of India’s most celebrated holidays.

The name Diwali, or Deepavali, is derived from the words deep meaning light and avail meaning a row, referencing the row of lights that celebrants use to illuminate their homes during the celebration. Diwali traditionally takes place over the span of five days, and celebrations include family gatherings, lighting clay lamps, displaying floral décor and rangoli, feasting and sharing sweets, and offering worship to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and fortune.

Traditions around the world include:

• Fireworks and the lighting of lanterns and oil lamps
• Traditional decorating with rangoli and floral garlands
• Visiting relatives and celebrating with food and sweet treats
• Worshipping Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, to bring blessings for the New Year