Diwali, often known as the festival of lights, is celebrated in South Asia, by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.

Diwali returns to Asia Society with a colorful, fun-filled, and multi-sensorial afternoon, presented in collaboration with The Culture Tree.

Join us on November 7, 2026, 1 – 4 p.m., to celebrate good fortune, family, and friendships. Enjoy music and dance performances, storytelling, and hands-on arts and crafts inspired by the holiday.

Make sure to check out our special Diwali menu at Asia Society’s Leo Cafe for the occasion.

Schedule

Schedule subject to change. Watch this space for schedule updates.

This year’s Diwali celebration features dance and music performances in Asia Society’s Visitor Center, Auditorium as well as arts and crafts and storytelling on the Eighth Floor.

Auditorium

1 p.m. Introduction to Diwali

1.15 p.m. Express Yourself through Indian Dance: Learn the languages of Bharatnatyam and Kathak!

2:15 p.m. Interactive Puppet Shows: Stories of Diwali

3:15 p.m.  Express Yourself through Indian Dance: Learn the Ghoomar and Bhangra dance forms for a fun-filled Diwali dance party!

Visitor Center/First Floor Lobby

“Meet and Greet” with Lord Ganesh

Come check out the statue of the Indian god Ganesh at Asia Society, and read about his symbolism in Indian culture and significance during Diwali.

Eighth Floor

1 – 4 p.m. Arts and Crafts, Sweets and Storytelling

Make your own Diya: During Diwali, people light small clay lamps called diyas to symbolize the light of knowledge and goodness. Make and decorate your own clay diya to put by your window at night.

Diwali Jewelry and Key Chains: Make Diwali-inspired jewelry and keychain charms.

Henna Tattoos: Come and get elaborate temporary tattoos on your hands.

Diwali Mithai Decoration: Learn about mithai, Indian sweets which are integral to Diwali. Decorate your mithai and then eat it.

Diwali Library and Mask Making: Learn more about the stories of Diwali through an interactive storytime session, and make your own Diwali mask!