Elk Grove shined with joy and tradition as hundreds gathered on October 13, 2025, at District 56 for the sixth annual Diwali Festival of Lights.

USA Sanatan, with support from the city’s Diversity & Inclusion Commission, hosted an evening rich in Indian music, dance, and fashion, drawing a diverse crowd.

Guests enjoyed complimentary Indian cuisine and classic Diwali sweets, nurturing a strong sense of community and belonging.

This year’s festivities coincided with a historic milestone: Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 268, making Diwali a California state holiday effective January 2026.

This law allows schools and state employees to observe Diwali, highlighting California’s cultural inclusivity.

Lead organizer Bhavin Parikh and Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen both emphasized the celebration’s powerful affirmation of diversity and unity.

The festival’s Diya lighting echoed Diwali’s universal message and embraced many backgrounds in Elk Grove’s welcoming spirit.