Schools in these US states will observe Diwali: Check full list here
With California becoming the first West Coast state to recognise Diwali as an official holiday from 2026, the festival of lights is finding a growing place in the calendars of several US states.The festival of Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists around the world. It marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Families light lamps and candles, share sweets, exchange gifts, and gather to reflect on community and renewal.
Where will schools be closed on Diwali?
Several US states have taken steps to formally recognise Diwali, either through legislation or by including it in school calendars. Along with California, states such as Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and Texas have adopted similar measures. While schools and government offices are not required to close in all of these states, the recognition highlights the cultural and spiritual significance of Diwali for diverse communities.PennsylvaniaPennsylvania was among the first states to recognise Diwali at the state level. The law, signed by Governor Josh Shapiro, designates the festival on the 15th day of Kartik in the Hindu lunisolar calendar.New YorkIn New York, Diwali became an official public school holiday in 2023. The move applies to New York City public schools, allowing thousands of students to celebrate the festival with their families without missing classes.New JerseyCities like Edison and Jersey City list Diwali as an official school holiday. The observance varies by district, depending on local board approvals and community participation.TexasTexas joined the growing list of states acknowledging Diwali’s importance in 2024. While not an official state holiday requiring closures, several school districts have opted to include Diwali in their academic calendars, allowing local observance and flexibility for students celebrating the festival.California (from 2026)Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 268 into law on October 6, 2025, officially recognising Diwali as a state holiday starting January 1, 2026. Once in effect, state employees will be able to take the day off with pay, and public schools or community colleges may close if approved by local boards.
A growing recognition of cultural diversity
From Pennsylvania on the East Coast to California on the West Coast, the recognition of Diwali marks a growing awareness of America’s multicultural fabric. As more school districts embrace these celebrations, Diwali’s glow continues to spread across classrooms and communities, symbolising not just tradition but inclusion and respect for diverse faiths and cultures.Check the official state or district websites for local holiday observances and school closure updates.
