Let There Be Light! How Schenectady Celebrates Diwali

Tanya Harvey Group
Oct 20
3 min read

As the brilliant colors of an Upstate New York autumn begin to fade and a chill settles into the air, a different kind of warmth and light starts to glow across Schenectady: the season of Diwali is upon us! For many in our community, that means celebrating Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. This vibrant, five-day festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. It’s a time for family, friends, food, and of course, lots of beautiful lights!

A lit clay diya emits a warm glow and smoke, surrounded by decorative red powder on a reflective surface. — Diwali celebrated in Schenectady, NY

What is Diwali?

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important holidays in India and for the Indian diaspora around the world. Each of the five days of Diwali has its own special significance. The most important day is the third day, which is the new moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik. On this day, families light up their homes with diyas (oil lamps) and candles, and set off fireworks to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

Families also create beautiful rangoli, intricate patterns made of colored rice, sand, or flower petals, on the floors of their homes. It’s a time for refreshing the home, wearing new clothes, and sharing delicious sweets like gulab jamun and barfi with loved ones.

Diwali in Schenectady

Here in Schenectady, the spirit of Diwali is a vibrant part of our city's cultural tapestry, bringing light and warmth to our neighborhoods. Our community comes together to celebrate in a variety of ways, from intimate family gatherings to larger public events.

For those looking to celebrate with the community, SUNY Schenectady is hosting a Diwali Celebration on Monday, October 20th, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Begley Building. This event is a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional foods, music, and even get a beautiful henna design.

In the past, organizations like the Capital District YMCA have also hosted Festival of Lights celebrations, bringing people together for music, dance, and food. It’s always a good idea to check their events calendar as Diwali approaches.

And for a truly grand celebration, the annual Diwali Festival of Light at the Empire State Plaza in Albany is a must-see! This free event features a dazzling display of Indian culture, with vendor stalls, live performances, activities for all ages, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Of course, the heart of Diwali is in the home. Behind front doors across Schenectady, many families will be busy preparing for Lakshmi Puja, a special prayer to the goddess Lakshmi, on the evening of October 20th. Homes will come alive with the sparkle of string lights and diyas, intricate rangoli designs will welcome guests at the doorstep, and the delicious aroma of traditional homemade snacks will fill the air.