Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) 2026: date, timings and what to know
Diwali is on Sunday 8 November 2026. Lakshmi Puja is done in the evening (Pradosh Kaal after sunset) on the Amavasya day; the exact time depends on your city.
Diwali, the festival of lights, is the main day of a five-day celebration. In 2026 Dhanteras is on 6 November, Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) on 7 to 8 November, Diwali and Lakshmi Puja on Sunday 8 November, Govardhan Puja on 10 November and Bhai Dooj on 11 November.
Lakshmi Puja is done on the new moon (Amavasya) evening in Pradosh Kaal, the period beginning at sunset and lasting about 2 hours 24 minutes. Many families also aim for the Sthir Lagna (Vrishabha) within that window. The sunset time and therefore the puja window are different in every city.
Quick answers
When is Diwali 2026?
Sunday 8 November 2026.
What is the Lakshmi Puja time?
Pradosh Kaal, starting at local sunset and lasting about 2 hours 24 minutes. In Delhi sunset is about 5:31 PM. Use the city list to see yours.
Is Diwali on 7 or 8 November?
The Amavasya evening falls on 8 November, so Lakshmi Puja is on 8 November 2026. Choti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi) is on 7 to 8 November.
Event times are computed from NASA JPL DE421 (tropical zodiac). Astrology is offered for reflection and entertainment. Editorial standards.