Diwali at Times Square 2026 Returns for Its 11th Edition
Sammaan For All is excited to announce the return of Diwali at Times Square presented by P&G and Tide and Toyota on October 24, 2026, at the Center of the Universe. Diwali at Times Square continues to convey the true meaning of Diwali by spreading the message of love, peace, harmony and togetherness.
Support from Indian Consulate
- The Consulate General of India in New York hosted a press conference on October 14, 2026.
- Deputy Consul General Vishal Harsh extended support for the celebrations.
- Ambassador Binaya S. Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, highlighted Diwali's message of light, knowledge, hope, and unity while praising the event for bringing communities together.
Awards Gala Before the Festival
- An Awards and Gala Dinner will take place on October 23, 2026, at Tribeca 360.
SupxxivenessThe event will recognize outstanding Indian Americans for contributions in:
- Philanthropy,
Innovation,
Medicine,
Entrepreneurship
Festival Attractions
- The festival will feature a vibrant Diwali Bazaar.
SupxxivenessA dedicated Kids Zone will offer:
- Diya painting
- Rangoli art activities
- Bollywood dance lessons
SupxxivenessVisitors can also enjoy:
- Product sampling
- Educational exhibits
- Interactive partner activities
‘Colors of India and America’ Cultural Program
- Afternoon celebrations will include the ‘Colors of India and America’ showcase.
SupxxivenessPerformances will feature:
- Indian dance groups
- Indo-Caribbean cultural groups
- Hispanic dance groups
- The program aims to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and cultural unity.
Diya Lighting Ceremony
- Dignitaries will participate in a special Diya Lighting Ceremony.
- A countdown will be displayed on the iconic Ball Drop Tower screen.
- The ceremony will lead into the evening Light Up Times Square Concert.
Star-Studded Performance Lineup
- The 11th edition of the concert will feature:
- Kanika Kapoor – Filmfare Award-winning Bollywood singer
- Raja Kumari – Grammy-nominated Indian-American rapper
- Rishi Singh – Winner of Indian Idol 13
- Shanmukha Priya – Finalist of Indian Idol 12
- Sparsh Shah (Purhythm) – Singer-rapper and Guinness World Record holder
- Kunal Lamba – Popularly known as New York's “Singing Chef”
- Saanvi Nacha – Emerging young singer from New Jersey
Vision for the Future
- Neeta Bhasin, Founder and Creator of Diwali at Times Square, said the event is entering a new decade with a continued focus on community, culture, and inclusion.
- She stressed the importance of fostering pride in South Asian heritage among younger generations while showcasing the values of art, culture, and togetherness to the wider world.
Key Takeaway
The 11th edition of Diwali at Times Square is expected to bring together thousands of attendees through cultural performances, family-friendly activities, community recognition programs, and a major concert, reinforcing the festival's role as one of the largest celebrations of Indian culture in the United States.
