The 5 Days of Diwali Explained: What Each Day Means

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the Festival of Lights. Many people think of it as a single night, but the celebration actually runs for five days, and each one has its own meaning.

At Shanti, we've been serving the Boston community since 1999, and Diwali is a special time for our team and our guests. Here's a simple guide to the five days, with the 2026 dates, so you know what to expect.

Diwali 2026 at a Glance

Day 1, Dhanteras: Friday, November 6

Day 2, Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): Saturday, November 7

Day 3, Diwali (Lakshmi Puja): Sunday, November 8

Day 4, Govardhan Puja: Monday, November 9

Day 5, Bhai Dooj: Tuesday, November 10

Dates shown for the U.S. Some regions observe the last two days a day later.

Day 1: Dhanteras

What it means: Dhanteras marks the start of Diwali and is associated with prosperity and good health. Many people light a lamp at dusk and welcome the festival with prayers for the year ahead.

Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali)

What it means: Also called Choti Diwali, this day celebrates the victory of good over evil. According to legend, it recalls Lord Krishna defeating the demon Naraka. Many people light their first diyas on this day.

Day 3: Diwali (Lakshmi Puja)

What it means: The main day of the festival. People light diyas, decorate doorways with rangoli, offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, and share sweets with the people close to them. This is the "festival of lights" at its brightest.

Day 4: Govardhan Puja (Annakut)

What it means: This day recalls the story of Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan to shelter the people of Vrindavan. It's a day of gratitude, and in many communities it's marked with a large spread of food, known as annakut, or "mountain of food."

Day 5: Bhai Dooj

What it means: The final day celebrates the bond between siblings. Brothers and sisters meet, share a meal, and exchange good wishes and gifts.

Celebrate All Five Days with Shanti

Whether you're gathering for a family dinner, a team lunch, or a community event, we're here to help.

Diwali Catering: Customizable menus for gatherings of all sizes. Explore our Diwali Catering in Boston.

Diwali Mithai Boxes: 12–14 pieces of assorted Indian sweets for $55, available November 6–13, 2026. See our Diwali Mithai Boxes.

Call us at 617-987-7883 or email order@shantiboston.com to plan your celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many days is Diwali? 
 Diwali is celebrated over five days, starting with Dhanteras and ending with Bhai Dooj.

2. When is Diwali in 2026? 
 The main day of Diwali, Lakshmi Puja, falls on Sunday, November 8, 2026. The five-day festival runs from November 6 to November 10 in the U.S.

3. What is the main day of Diwali? 
 The third day, Lakshmi Puja, is considered the main day of Diwali.

4. What is Dhanteras? 
 Dhanteras is the first day of Diwali, associated with prosperity and good health.

5. What is Choti Diwali? 
 Choti Diwali, also called Naraka Chaturdashi, is the second day. It celebrates the victory of good over evil.

6. What is Govardhan Puja? 
 Govardhan Puja is the fourth day, honoring the story of Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan. It's often marked with a large spread of food.

7. What is Bhai Dooj? 
 Bhai Dooj is the fifth day, celebrating the bond between siblings.

8. Are sweets part of Diwali? 
 Yes! Sharing sweets is a popular way to celebrate Diwali with family, friends, and colleagues.

9. Does Shanti offer Diwali catering in Boston? 
 Yes! We offer customizable Diwali catering for family gatherings, office celebrations, college events, and more. Call 617-987-7883 or email order@shantiboston.com to get started.

10. Can I order Diwali mithai boxes from Shanti? 
 Absolutely! Our Diwali mithai boxes are $55 and available November 6–13, 2026. Contact us to preorder or ask about multiple boxes.

Happy Diwali from all of us at Shanti! 🪔