California is the third U.S. state to designate Diwali as an official statewide holiday. The law, newly signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, takes effect January 1.

A new state bill has made the Hindu holiday Diwali an official California state holiday. The bill, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Tuesday, goes into effect Jan. 1. Diwali, the Hindu "Festival of Lights," marks the start of the Hindu new year.

California has the largest Indian American population among the states at nearly 900,000. This year’s Diwali starts on Oct. 20. The holiday begins on the 15th day of the month of Kartik in the Hindu lunar calendar, which usually falls in October or November.

A big party was held in Elk Grove on Monday night, with the community's annual Diwali celebration taking place.

Diwali, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Families come together to light lamps and candles, exchange gifts and sweets,

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill into law on Tuesday, which will take effect on January 1, 2026.