Where to Celebrate Diwali in New York 2025

Ready to light up 2025 with New York’s most spectacular Diwali celebration? The main day of the festival is Sunday, October 19, 2025, but the magic spills over multiple weeks with events throughout October and November. Picture this: thousands of twinkling diyas reflecting on the Hudson, the infectious beat of dhol drums taking over Manhattan blocks, and the irresistible aroma of freshly fried jalebi. This isn’t just a festival; it’s the can’t-miss cultural event of the fall. And with our guide, you’ll have a front-row seat to all of it. Heres how to celebrate Diwali in New York, the right way!

Main Diwali in New York Events 2025

1. Diwali at Times Square – The Crown Jewel

When: October 12, 2025 | Where: Times Square, Manhattan | Cost: Free admission

Mark your calendars! The 10th-anniversary celebration of Diwali at Times Square is the can’t-miss event of the season, a beloved tradition that draws thousands to the heart of NYC. Prepare for a full sensory overload:

• Live Performances: From high-energy Bollywood dance to mesmerising classical acts.
• Cultural Showcases: Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse traditions of South Asia.
• Street Festivities: Be part of the massive, joyful crowd as Times Square transforms into a sea of light and colour.
• Family-Friendly Vibes: A perfectly safe and exciting environment for kids and adults alike.
• Photo Opportunities: Capture iconic Instagram moments with dancers, lights, and the legendary NYC backdrop.

Why it’s special: This isn’t just any festival – it’s where the sacred traditions of South Asia meet the iconic bright lights of Broadway. Witnessing a classical dance performance with digital billboards glowing behind it is a surreal experience unique to NYC.

Know Before You Go:

• Pro Tip: Arrive by 3 PM to secure a good viewing spot. Crowds peak after 5 PM.
• Getting There: TAKE THE SUBWAY. The N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3, 7, or S trains to Times Square-42nd St are your best bet. Driving is not recommended.
• What to Wear: Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. Embrace the spirit in vibrant colors or traditional attire!

2. Diwali on the High Seas: A Historic Celebration at South Street Seaport

When: November 1 | Where: South Street Seaport Museum, Lower Manhattan | Cost: Free general admission during Diwali events

Swap the bustling streets for the serene waterfront! The Seaport Museum offers an intimate, hands-on Diwali experience where culture and history collide against a stunning nautical backdrop. It’s perfect for families seeking a deeper connection to the festival’s traditions.

• Nautical Rangoli Workshops: Learn to create beautiful Diwali decorations inspired by classic marigold garlands and maritime motifs like compass roses and sailing ships.
• The Main Event: Deck out your own diya lamp aboard the historic 1885 tall ship Wavertree. Lighting your diya on the deck of this vessel is a magical, can’t-miss experience.
• Dance & Music: Join interactive dance workshops and enjoy live DJ sets spinning festive Bollywood and classical tunes.
• Cultural Immersion: The Culture Tree leads activities designed to foster empathy, respect, and understanding through creative play.
• Iconic Photo Ops: Capture memorable moments with authentic props with the Brooklyn Bridge and East River as your backdrop.

Perfect for: Families, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a more educational and interactive celebration away from the massive crowds.

Know Before You Go:

• Pro Tip: This is a hotspot for local families. Arrive early as popular workshops can fill up and may require sign-up. The waterfront location provides a gorgeous setting for sunset photos during the event.

3. Diwali on the Hudson: A Glittering Gala with Breathtaking Waterfront Views

When: October 16, 2025 | Where: HK Hall, 605 W 48th Street, New York, NY | Cost: Ticketed Event (Prices TBA)

For a sophisticated and incredibly scenic celebration, Diwali on the Hudson is a premier choice. This event trades crowded streets for open skies, offering an elegant evening where the lights of the festival meet the glittering lights of the city skyline across the water.

• Iconic Photo Ops: This is the event for your holiday card photo! Capture stunning moments against a sunset over the Hudson with the iconic NYC skyline as your backdrop.
• Elegant Live Performances: Be mesmerised by curated classical Indian music, soulful bhajans, and graceful dance performances on a main stage set against the water.
• Gourmet Food Alley: Savour authentic flavours from top local Indian vendors. Think everything from spicy pani puri and savory samosas to rich butter chicken and sweet, warm gulab jamun.
• Family-Friendly Activities: A dedicated kids’ zone often features crafts like rangoli colouring or diya decorating, making it fun for the whole family.
• Spectacular Lighting Display: The climax of the evening is the magical lighting of countless diyas, creating a shimmering path of light along the pier, often accompanied by a dazzling display (potential for fireworks in 2025!).

Perfect for: Couples, photographers, and those seeking a more relaxed, upscale, and picturesque Diwali experience with unbeatable views.

Know Before You Go:

• Crucial Info: This is a ticketed event and has sold out in previous years. Set a Google Alert for “Diwali on the Hudson 2025 tickets” so you don’t miss the release date!
• What to Wear: It’s stylish but practical. The waterfront is notoriously windy—dress in warm layers and consider a scarf.

The Ultimate Diwali Food Experience in NYC

From bustling street food stalls to elegant tasting menus, NYC’s culinary scene shines during Diwali. Here’s how to feast your way through the Festival of Lights.

Must-Try Diwali Street Food & Sweets

Jackson Heights, Queens – Your Diwali Food Paradise

Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of NYC’s Indian community. The streets come alive with the aromas of frying spices and simmering sugar syrups.

Savory Street Bites: Follow your nose to sizzling platters of chaat, crispy golden samosas, and addictive pakoras. Don’t miss the explosive flavors of pani puri from street vendors.

The Sweet Spot (Mithai): No celebration is complete without sweets. You haven’t truly experienced Diwali here until you’ve tried:

• Gulab Jamun: Soft, fried milk dumplings soaked in rose-scented syrup.
• Jalebi: Bright orange, coiled swirls of fried batter, soaked in syrup and served warm.
• Barfi: A rich, fudge-like confection often flavoured with cardamom, pistachio, or mango.
• Top Spots: Join the lines at Rajbhog Sweets, Maharaja Sweets, or New Anand Bhavan for the best mithai in town.

Elegant Fine Dining & Special Menus

For a sophisticated take on the festival, NYC’s top Indian restaurants roll out special menus and events.

• The James Beard Foundation: Watch for their exclusive, multi-course Diwali dinners hosted by award-winning chefs. These are prestigious, sell-out events.
• Modern Hotspots: GupShup (West Village) and Ammi (Prospect Heights) are known for their chic ambiance and modern Indian cuisine, offering special festival prix-fixe menus.
• Punjabi & Bengali Feasts: Tagmo in Lower East Side offers a fantastic prix-fixe menu highlighting regional specialties from Punjab and Bengal. Most upscale spots offer extensive vegetarian and vegan options.

DIY Diwali Treats: Cooking Workshops

Want to bring the taste of Diwali into your own kitchen? Learn from the pros!

• Mithai-Making Classes: Perfect for families! Learn the art of making perfect ladoo or kaju katli.
• Traditional Recipe Sharing: Dive deeper into regional cuisines with workshops focused on savory dishes like biryani or dosa.
• Festive Baking: A fun twist! Some bakeries offer classes to decorate Diya lamp-shaped cookies or create your own festive masala chai spice blends.

Pro Tip: These classes are incredibly popular. Book your spot weeks, if not months, in advance!

Stock Your Pantry: The Best Indian Grocery Stores

Hosting a party? You’ll need supplies.

• Patel Brothers (Jackson Heights): The massive, iconic chain for absolutely everything.
• Kalustyan’s (Lexington Ave): A legendary spice haven for serious cooks.
• Dual Specialty Store (East Village): A smaller, beloved shop for spices, flours, and fresh snacks.

Fireworks & Light Displays

While large-scale public fireworks are rare, NYC sparkles with stunning and safe light-based celebrations for Diwali.

Where to Catch the Best Public Light Shows

Times Square & Midtown

The heart of the city embraces the festival with its own iconic brand of lights.

• Digital Spectacle: Giant LED billboards often feature special Diwali-themed messages and animations.
• Building Lights: Look for skyscrapers illuminated in the traditional gold and red colors of the festival.
• Live Performances: Catch mesmerising (and safe) fire dancers and cultural acts under the neon glow.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

This waterfront park offers a more serene but equally beautiful experience.

• Artistic Light Installations: Often features contemporary art pieces and displays themed around light and community.
• Iconic Views: The Manhattan skyline itself becomes a breathtaking light show. It’s a spectacular backdrop for a family Diwali gathering.

How to Light Up Your Home (Safely!)

A crucial note: Personal fireworks are illegal in NYC. Celebrate safely and brilliantly with these alternatives:

• The Modern Diya: LED diya lamps are the safest, brightest choice for windowsills and altars. They’re flameless, wind-proof, and perfect for homes with kids and pets.
• Festive Atmosphere: Drape battery-operated string lights (in gold or warm white) around your doorframe or balcony for a magical glow.
• Traditional Flames: If using traditional candles, never leave them unattended and keep them away from curtains, decorations, and high-traffic areas.
• Colour Your Doorstep: The most beautiful tradition! Create a vibrant rangoli with colored sand, flower petals, or rice flour at your entrance to welcome luck and beauty.

Family-Friendly Activities Throughout the City

Looking for ways to celebrate Diwali with your little ones? NYC’s museums offer the perfect blend of fun, culture, and learning.

Cultural Adventures: Diwali Fun at NYC’s Best Museums

Brooklyn Children’s Museum

A high-energy, hands-on paradise where kids learn through play.

• “Diwali Puppet Extravaganza!” Don’t miss vibrant, storytelling puppet shows by The Culture Tree that bring the myths and meanings of Diwali to life for all ages.
• Get Hands-On with Light: Interactive exhibits let kids explore the science and symbolism of light, helping them understand the “why” behind the festival in the most engaging way possible.
• Play-Based Activities: Designed specifically for young children, ensuring everyone from toddlers to tweens has a fun and meaningful experience.

Asia Society and Museum

For a more immersive and artistic family outing.

• A Sonic Journey: Be mesmerised by the enchanting sounds of live Indian classical music performances—a rare and beautiful cultural experience in NYC.
• Create Traditional Art: Kids can roll up their sleeves in workshops designed to create Diwali crafts, like miniature rangoli art or decorated diyas, to take home as souvenirs.
• Cultural Storytelling: Captivating sessions that dive into the ancient stories and legends behind the Festival of Lights.

Pro Tip: These popular events are ticketed and sell out! Check the museum’s event calendars in early October to secure your spots and plan your cultural day out.

Diwali Shopping in NYC: Your Quick Guide

Best Places for Authentic Items

Jackson Heights, Queens

The ultimate one-stop-shop for everything Diwali.

• What to buy: Traditional clothing (sarees, kurtas), diya lamps, rangoli powders, fresh mithai (sweets), and marigold garlands.
• Vibe: Bustling, authentic, and full of options.

Manhattan’s Little India (East 6th St)

Perfect for a curated browse in the East Village.

• What to buy: Unique gifts, jewelry, accessories, and specialty spices.
• Vibe: Compact, historic, and easily combined with a great meal.

Your Diwali NYC Essentials: Practical Tips & Info

Navigate the festival like a pro with these key pieces of advice.

• Getting Around: Diwali events draw huge crowds due to its significance. Public transportation is highly recommended for all major events. Use the MYmta app for real-time subway and bus updates. Ride-shares will be expensive and stuck in traffic.
• Weather Preparedness: Late October/early November in NYC is unpredictable. It can be a crisp 60°F (15°C) or a chilly 40°F (4°C). Dress in layers so you can adapt to changing conditions, especially for outdoor evening events.
• Capturing the Moment: The lights, colours, and action are incredible. Bring a portable phone charger (power bank). You’ll be taking photos and videos all day, and you don’t want your battery to die.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Diwali is a sacred festival for many. While everyone is welcome, be respectful during religious ceremonies and performances. It’s customary to remove your shoes if you enter a designated prayer or temple area.
• Staying Updated: Event details (especially dates and times for 2025) are subject to change. Bookmark this page and follow the social media accounts of the venues mentioned (Times Square Alliance, South Street Seaport, etc.) for the most current information.

Where to Stay: Hotels Near the Diwali Action

Planning a trip to NYC for Diwali? Base yourself near the festivities for maximum convenience. Here are top hotel picks categorized by area:

The CuddlyNest Pick: For the best deals on these hotels and many more, book your stay through CuddlyNest. They specialise in handpicked accommodations for every budget, making it easy to find the perfect base for your Diwali adventure.

For Times Square & Midtown Events:

• The Knickerbocker Hotel : Ultimate luxury and literally in the heart of Times Square. You can’t get closer to the main event.
• Moxy NYC Times Square : A trendy, vibrant, and more affordable option with a great social scene, perfect for younger travelers.
• Hilton Garden Inn Times Square : A reliable, family-friendly chain hotel offering comfort and a fantastic central location.

For Seaport & Lower Manhattan Events:

• Club Quarters Hotel, World Trade Center : A great value-for-money option in a prime location, close to the Seaport and subway lines.
• New York Marriott Downtown : A solid, upscale choice with fantastic views of the waterfront and Brooklyn Bridge.

For Jackson Heights (Queens) Food & Shopping:

• Paper Factory Hotel (Long Island City) : A unique, boutique hotel in a converted factory. It’s a quick subway ride to both Manhattan and Queens.

Pro Booking Tip: Book your hotel early! Diwali weekend is a popular time to visit NYC. Securing your room months in advance will guarantee better rates and availability.

🏨 Ready to Book Your Diwali Getaway?

Find the perfect hotel and unlock the best available rates for your stay by booking on CuddlyNest today!

Diwali in New York is more than just a festival; it’s a vibrant, city-wide embrace of light, culture, and community. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to experience the magic, flavor, and joy of the Festival of Lights in the city that never sleeps. Get ready to create unforgettable memories—Happy Diwali!