Diwali 2026 festival schedule and key dates

The Diwali festival in 2026 is expected to span six days due to specific calendar alignments. The celebrations will begin with Dhanteras on November 6 and conclude with Bhai Dooj on November 11.

Main festival dates include: - Dhanteras: November 6 - Choti Diwali: November 7 - Diwali (Lakshmi Puja): November 8 - Govardhan Puja: November 9 or 10, depending on specific astrological calculations - Bhai Dooj: November 11

On the main day of Diwali, November 8, Lakshmi Puja is traditionally performed during the Pradosh Kaal, with an auspicious window suggested between approximately 5:30 PM and 8:15 PM. The festivities mark the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya and are characterized by lighting lamps, decorating homes, and performing rituals to invite prosperity.