Diwali at Times Square Returns Oct. 24 With Free Festival and Concert
New York -- Diwali at Times Square returns on October 24, 2026, with a daytime bazaar, a kids' zone, dance performances and an evening concert led by Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor and Grammy-nominated rapper Raja Kumari.
A gala dinner opens the weekend on October 23
The celebration starts a day earlier with an Awards and Gala Dinner at Tribeca 360 on October 23, 2026. The evening honors Indian Americans for contributions in philanthropy, innovation, medicine and entrepreneurship.
Kids can paint diyas and learn Bollywood dance
The October 24 festival includes a Diwali Bazaar and a dedicated Kids Zone. Children can paint diyas, create colorful rangoli art and take Bollywood dance lessons. Vendors will offer product sampling, and partners will provide educational information.
The afternoon 'Colors of India and America' program features Indian, Indo-Caribbean and Hispanic dance groups.