Diwali 2026 falls on Sunday, 8 November, with Lakshmi Puja in the evening. The five-day festival starts with Dhanteras on Friday, 6 November, followed by Choti Diwali on 7 November, Govardhan Puja on 10 November and Bhai Dooj on Wednesday, 11 November.
Every year, the family WhatsApp group fights about one thing: “Is Diwali on Saturday or Sunday?” Save this page and end the debate.
Diwali 2026 calendar
| Festival | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Dhanteras | 6 November 2026 | Friday |
| Choti Diwali / Narak Chaturdashi | 7 November 2026 | Saturday |
| Diwali / Lakshmi Puja | 8 November 2026 | Sunday |
| Govardhan Puja / Annakut | 10 November 2026 | Tuesday |
| Bhai Dooj | 11 November 2026 | Wednesday |
Dates as listed by Vedantu, based on Drik Panchang. In some calendars, Narak Chaturdashi’s morning rituals fall on 8 November, so check with your family pandit if your tradition differs.
Lakshmi Puja muhurat 2026
For New Delhi, the Lakshmi Puja muhurat on 8 November is from 5:54 pm to 7:50 pm, as per Drik Panchang. Muhurat timings change by city, so look up your local panchang for exact times.
What each day is about
- Dhanteras: the day for buying gold, silver, utensils or anything new for the home. It is also when people worship Dhanvantari, the god of health.
- Choti Diwali: marks Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura. Homes are cleaned and the first diyas are lit.
- Diwali: the main night, with Lakshmi Puja, diyas, rangoli, sweets and family gatherings.
- Govardhan Puja: remembers Krishna lifting Govardhan hill. Many homes prepare annakut, a spread of dozens of dishes.
- Bhai Dooj: sisters apply tilak and pray for their brothers, who are expected to arrive with gifts. No pressure, brothers.
Planning tips for Diwali week
- Book travel now. Trains and flights around 6 to 8 November fill up fast.
- Order gifts early. Online deliveries slow down in the last few days. Our list of Diwali gift ideas under Rs 1,000 can help.
- Check local firecracker rules. Many cities, including Delhi, have restrictions on bursting crackers, especially during high pollution.
And yes, Ramayana releases on 5 November, so the family outing for the long weekend is sorted.
Frequently asked questions
When is Diwali in 2026?
Diwali 2026 is on Sunday, 8 November, with Lakshmi Puja in the evening.
When is Dhanteras 2026?
Dhanteras 2026 is on Friday, 6 November.
When is Bhai Dooj 2026?
Bhai Dooj 2026 is on Wednesday, 11 November.
What is the Lakshmi Puja muhurat on Diwali 2026?
For New Delhi, the muhurat is 5:54 pm to 7:50 pm on 8 November, as per Drik Panchang. Timings vary by city.
