Diwali, the five-day festival of lights also known as Deepavali, runs from Oct. 18 to 22 this year, with the main night on Oct. 20. The festival is a major religious one for Hindus, but is also observed by Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. It celebrates the victory of good over evil, though origin stories differ by region. Lights, fireworks, feasting, exchanging sweets and gifts, new clothing and prayer are often part of the festivities, as are rangoli, geometric floral patterns drawn on the floor with colorful powders.

On Monday, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law establishing Diwali as a state holiday in California, starting in 2026, meaning that public schools and community colleges will be able to close on Diwali, and state employees can choose to take the day off with pay.

Here are 10+ ways t

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