Diwali 2026: Festival of Lights Celebrations Around the Bay Area
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the biggest celebrations of the year for millions of people around the world. The five-day festival celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, with traditions that include lighting diyas (small oil lamps), creating colorful rangoli designs, sharing sweets, dressing up, and gathering with family and friends.
The Bay Area knows how to celebrate, too. From huge outdoor festivals and Bollywood dance parties to traditional music, Indian street food and family-friendly cultural activities, there are plenty of ways to join the festivities. Diwali’s main celebration day falls on Sunday, November 8, 2026, but events and celebrations are happening throughout the first few weeks of November.
Here are a few of the biggest Diwali celebrations and Festival of Lights events happening around the Bay Area.
Bay Area’s Biggest Diwali Celebrations 2026
Oakland Diwali 2026 Festival of Lights
November 7, 2026 | Oakland (BLOC15) | FREE
One of the East Bay’s biggest Diwali celebrations brings together hundreds of people of all ages for an evening of South Asian culture, music, dancing and community. Expect dynamic live performances, delicious South Asian food, a festive bazaar and plenty of community spirit at this free, family-friendly celebration in downtown Oakland.
San Francisco Diwali Festival at Yerba Buena Gardens 2026
November 8, 2026 | San Francisco (Yerba Buena Gardens) | FREE
Celebrate Diwali in the heart of downtown San Francisco with an afternoon of traditional and contemporary South Asian music and dance. The free outdoor festival also features local artisans, food vendors and live performances, including Alam Khan, Raaga School of Music and Rang De Bollywood Dance Company.
SF’s “Bhangra & Beats” Diwali Night Market 2026
November 13, 2026 | San Francisco (Yerba Buena Gardens) | FREE
San Francisco’s beloved Bhangra & Beats Night Market returns for a special Diwali edition, bringing Punjabi beats and Bay Area nightlife energy to downtown. Expect live drummers, DJs, Bhangra dance lessons, Indian street food, local vendors, henna, cultural activities and plenty of room to dance. It’s a high-energy way to keep the Diwali celebrations going after the holiday itself.
