The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to celebrate Diwali on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway. This free event will bring the community together for an afternoon of cultural traditions, entertainment, and celebration, welcoming both those who observe Diwali and those interested in learning more about the holiday.
Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It is a time of joy and renewal, when families and communities come together to celebrate cherished traditions and share wishes for happiness and prosperity. The County’s celebration offers residents an opportunity to experience that spirit while building connections with neighbors from different backgrounds.
“Union County is home to a rich mix of cultures and traditions, and sharing those traditions helps bring our communities closer together,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Events like our Diwali celebration give residents an opportunity to learn from one another, spend time with their neighbors, and appreciate the many communities that contribute to life in our County. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the holiday’s message of hope, renewal, and kindness.”
The afternoon’s program will feature a Diya ceremony, highlighting the light at the heart of the celebration. Diyas, traditional lamps associated with Diwali, symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and serve as a reminder of the hope and goodness people can share with one another.
Attendees will also enjoy dance performances, participate in crafts, and share refreshments. Together, these activities will offer a welcoming setting for families and friends to celebrate, connect, and experience the holiday’s cultural traditions. No prior familiarity with Diwali is needed to take part.
Union County’s Diwali celebration began during the COVID-19 pandemic as an effort to bring people together during a time of uncertainty and isolation. Since then, it has grown into a continuing community tradition, with celebrations held at locations including the Historic Union County Courthouse Rotunda, Trailside, and Hamilton Stage. Each gathering has provided another opportunity for residents to share their heritage and introduce others to the meaning of the holiday.
“When we first introduced Union County’s Diwali celebration during the pandemic, it was a way to bring light and connection to our community during a difficult time. It has been wonderful to see that celebration grow, welcoming more families and bringing people together through shared traditions,” said Union County Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, a member of the event’s planning committee. “Whether you have joined us before or will be celebrating with us for the first time, we hope you will become part of this tradition. Diwali reminds us that even a single light can brighten the darkness, and that together, we can bring that same warmth and hope to our community.”
Residents are encouraged to join family, friends, and neighbors for this celebration of light, culture, and community.
Admission is free. To register, visit www.ucnj.org/diwali.