Indian Americans make up about 2.5 percent of the population in the DC Metro area, and Diwali is one of the most important and exciting holidays celebrated by this community and throughout other parts of Southeast Asia. This vibrant celebration always occurs in October or November, and is based on the lunar calendar. Moonless conditions make lights, or deepas, shine bright. Even if you’ve never celebrated Diwali before, there are plenty of opportunities to join the community and celebrate the triumph of darkness over light.

National Museum of Asian Art – Asia After Dark (Washington, DC)
Asia After Dark is presenting their annual Diwali festival on Friday November 1, starting at 5 PM. Come grab a bite of traditional Indian cuisine from local vendors, including Rasa, Apna Pizza, and Malai Ice Cream. Color a diya or work with artist Trisha Gupta to craft a unique woodblock print. Take in the talents and stylings of dancing happens to your forte, turn up with DJ Rekha after hours.

National Museum of Asian Art – Diwali Family Fun (Washington, DC)
In addition to their after-dark event, the National Museum of Asian Art is also offering a chance for little ones to learn about Diwali and make art inspired by it. From 11:30 to 1:30 on Saturday November 2, kids and their families can learn about light-sensitive objects and make light-inspired crafts in the ImaginAsia classroom. Ages 5 and up, online registration recommended.

MOAPIA Presents: Diwali (Navy Yard, Washington, DC)
The DC Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs (MOAPIA) is presenting another awesome after-dark celebration in Navy Yard. The event starts at 6:30, and will include cultural performances, southeast Asian cuisine, and a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony led by a priest after sundown. This is a family-friendly event, and free tickets are available on EventBrite.

Corral Lounge: Biggest Diwali Party (Falls Church, VA)
The Falls Church neighborhood’s favorite hookah bar and restaurant, Corral Lounge, will be hosting Dil Se Diwali, the “Biggest Diwali Party” on Saturday November 2 with a Bollywood Dhamaka theme. Celebrity SVP DJ, drinks, and dancing will make this an unforgettable night where guests are bound to feel like Bollywood stars. Attendees are welcome to dress traditional or stylish. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time on EventBrite, and there is an early bird special. Over 21 only.


Heritage India Festival at Dulles Expo Center (Dulles, VA)
On October 26-27, head over to Dulles Expo Center to experience Rushhi Entertainment’s award winning annual celebration of Southeast Asian cultural touchstones. Over 270 booths will be offering crafts, jewelry, delicacies, and other delights from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Admission is $5, and children 5 and under are free.


Diwali Mela at Murugan Temple (Lanham, MD)
On October 19, join the United Hindu and Jain temples of the DC and Baltimore area for a lively night of religious celebration and triumph. Embrace cultural rituals, like Garba and Dandia, and enjoy music and dancing with the help of locally famous DJs. There will be endless opportunities to shop, indulge in Southeast Asian cuisine, and take in spectacular performances.