Called a festival of lights, for Manasa Mantravadi, Diwali is "A time to celebrate with our friends and family all the joy and light in the world. It's a time to remember that even when we are faced with dark times, the light does shine again and we can be grateful for all that is good in the world. And as an Indian immigrant Mom, Diwali is a time to teach, celebrate and pass on our beautiful culture and tradition with our children to they can appreciate and love their roots as much as we do!" While different religions and regions have unique Diwali origin stories the symbolism of lightness in dark connects them all.

When is Diwali? Usually falling in late October or early November, in 2022, Diwali lasts from October 22nd to October 26th. Traditionally the first two days are dedicated to cleaning, cooking, shopping, and decorating the house. The main event is on the third day while the last two days are for celebrating family bonds–between parents and siblings.

Diwali lasts from October 22nd to October 26th. Traditionally the first two days are dedicated to cleaning, cooking, shopping, and decorating the house. The main event is on the third day, while the last two days celebrate family bonds–between parents and siblings.

To Leah Singh, "Diwali means getting together with family and eating lots of delicious food! It's a party! There's music, dancing, and sparkly lights. And in the days leading up to it, people exchange gifts and sweets." Dr. Mantravadi loves that it's a time for her and her "fellow Indian Moms get together to have Diwali pitch-ins just like our mothers used to do, preparing and bringing an Indian dish to share at the dining table to celebrate and connect over a meal. It's so important to us to pass on the sights, smells, feelings, sounds, and flavors of our Indian roots with our children so they, too, can one day pass it on."

Diwali Derations & Activities For Kids

Diyas are clay oil or ghee lamps that families light and place in rows around the house during Diwali. Kids decorate clay diyas or make their own out of air dry clay. Add small battery-powered tea light candle and watch it glow. 

Rangoli are designs created on the ground or a tabletop to welcome Lakshmi made from colorful rice, flours, sand, or flowers. A Rangoli puzzle is a mess-free alternative or let kids embellish a printed rangoli design with salt dyed with food coloring.

Mithai are sweets often made with condensed milk or grated veggies. This Kaju Katli recipe, topped with edible silver, is editor and cookbook author Priya Krishna's favorite.