Diwali has illuminated a new chapter in India's cultural presence in the United States. In a remarkable first, five US states and 21 cities across the Pacific Northwest have hosted Diwali celebrations at official government venues, including state capitols, governors' mansions and city halls.

The celebrations, which began in mid-October, are among the largest Diwali events ever organised across the US Pacific Northwest, according to the Consulate General of India in Seattle. The festivities are scheduled to continue until November 10, when Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is expected to host the concluding celebration at the State Capitol in Salem.

Governors of Idaho, Nebraska, Montana, North Dakota and Washington hosted the first-ever state-level celebrations at their respective official venues. The events brought together US senators, members of Congress, mayors and Indian American community representatives.

Leaders Celebrate the Contributions of Indian Americans

Beyond the traditional lighting of lamps and festive gatherings, the celebrations became an occasion to recognise the growing contributions of Indian Americans to their communities. According to The Times of India, Idaho Governor Brad Little praised the community's role in strengthening the state's economy through businesses, professional achievements and civic involvement. Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen encouraged Indian American families to preserve their cultural traditions, describing them as an important part of the state's identity.

North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong highlighted the importance of relationships between communities, calling diversity a strength. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson also acknowledged the remarkable growth of the Indian American population in his state and its contributions over the years.

These celebrations reflected how cultural traditions can bring communities together while strengthening connections across borders.

21 Cities Join the Festivities

The celebrations extended beyond state-level events. In Washington, 21 cities hosted individual Diwali ceremonies in their city council chambers, with mayors and council members participating in traditional lamp-lighting ceremonies.

The events covered several communities across the Greater Seattle region, home to nearly 200,000 Indian Americans. Cities including Bellevue, Kirkland, Everett, Tacoma, Kent, Spokane and Auburn joined the celebrations.

The celebrations follow another significant development in Washington state. In February 2026, its Senate passed Senate Bill 6044, recognising Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas as state observances, although not as legal holidays. The Consulate General of India in Seattle worked with Indian American community leaders to organise the celebrations across the region.

From traditional lamp-lighting ceremonies to official proclamations, Diwali's growing recognition reflects the cultural contributions of the Indian diaspora and the value of celebrating diversity.