Join the Scotiabank StartRight® Program designed for Newcomers‡ and get up to $2,200* in value in the first year.
Written By
Zain Usmani
Oct 7, 2025
•Life in Canada
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important celebrations in Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist traditions. Across Canada, newcomers light diyas, share sweets, and attend colourful Diwali festivals that symbolize the triumph of light over darkness. Whether you’re new to Canada or celebrating for the first time, discover how Canadians embrace Indian festivals and the spirit of multiculturalism that makes this country shine. Learn when Diwali 2025 takes place, what each of the five days of Diwali means, and where to find the most exciting Diwali events near you.
Diwali marks new beginnings and the victory of good over evil. It’s a time to clean and decorate homes, exchange gifts, wear new clothes, and share food with loved ones.
In Canada, where over 2.6 million people identify as South Asian (2021 Census), Diwali has become a national celebration of cultural diversity. Many Canadians, regardless of background, now take part in local Diwali festivals, fireworks, and cultural events.
In 2025, people will celebrate Diwali from October 18 to 22, with the main festival day on October 20.
The five days of Diwali are a time to reflect on the significance of the festival and its spiritual meaning.
Welcoming prosperity by cleaning homes and buying gold or utensils.
Celebrating the triumph of light over darkness.
Lighting diyas and celebrating Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya.
Honouring Lord Krishna’s protection of his people.
Celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters.
Use battery-operated diyas or LED string lights if open flames aren’t allowed. Temporary window decals and rangoli stickers add festive colour. Decorating your space for Diwali, even if it’s a rental, helps it feel like home!
Unlock the Secrets to Crafting a Winning Rental Application. Are you a newcomer to Canada searching for your perfect rental home? Look no further! Our comprehensive guide will help you navigate the rental application process confidently and successfully!
GET FREE GUIDEMost cities host free or low-cost Diwali events with food stalls, cultural performances, and music. They’re perfect for meeting other newcomers and local families.
Invite coworkers or neighbours to enjoy Indian sweets (mithai) or snacks, such as samosas. It’s a great way to build friendships in your new community.
Explore neighbourhoods like Gerrard India Bazaar (Toronto), Northeast Calgary, or Surrey Newton (B.C.) for Diwali décor and sweets. Newcomers can also find tips on where to live in Surrey to be close to community events and cultural hubs.
Diwali in Canada is a celebration of unity, gratitude, and inclusion. As newcomers settle across the country, they share cultural traditions that brighten communities and create connections among Canadians of every background.
Canada’s South Asian community has seen large growth since 2011. As of Canada’s last census in 2021, the South Asian population grew by nearly 50% between 2011 and 2021, helping make festivals like Diwali part of the mainstream cultural calendar.
October 18 to 22, with the main day on October 20.
Major cities such as Toronto, Brampton, Calgary, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Halifax host open Diwali festivals. Many newcomers in the Greater Toronto Area, especially those in Brampton’s vibrant neighbourhoods, join Diwali festivals hosted by local temples or community associations.
No, Diwali is not a statutory holiday, but many workplaces, schools, and cities recognize and celebrate it with community events. See our Statutory Holidays in Canada | Guide for Newcomers for more information.
Many cities restrict fireworks without proper permits. Always check local by-laws; some municipalities, like Brampton, hold official fireworks or drone shows.
Use LED diyas, hang string lights on balconies or windows, and prepare festive sweets to share with friends.
Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or new neighbours, Diwali is a wonderful reminder of unity, multicultural spirit, and new beginnings. If you’re still searching for your first home in Canada, explore our rental application guide for practical tips. And for those in the Greater Toronto Area, discover the best Brampton neighbourhoods for newcomers, a community where you can enjoy Diwali celebrations year after year.
From decorating your home with diyas to joining vibrant Diwali events across Canada, we wish you a safe, happy, and memorable celebration, filled with laughter, sweets, and the light of hope for the year ahead.
WRITTEN BY
Zain Usmani
Writer, Prepare for Canada
My name is Zain Usmani and I am a freelance content writer who currently resides in Mississauga, Ontario. I immigrated from Pakistan to Canada 5 years ago and have lived in many cities ever since. I have lived in Calgary AB, Edmonton AB, Regina SK, London ON, and Mississauga ON, while visiting over 40 Canadian cities and towns. I have a great passion for writing and I love helping people through it.
© Prepare for Canada 2025
Halloween in Canada: A Newcomer’s Guide to Trick or Treating
Your First Thanksgiving in Canada: Traditions, Meaning & How to Celebrate
What is the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation in Canada?
Canada Day 2025 for Newcomers: What to Know, Do & Celebrate