19 Diwali children’s books that celebrate the ‘Festival of Lights’

The festivities are spread out over several days filled with family, food and joy.
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Diwali children’s books are a wonderful way to learn about or observe a holiday that is recognized by millions of people all around the world.
Diwali is a Hindu festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and it’s also observed by many Sikh, Jain and Buddhist families. It’s called the “Festival of Lights” because part of the celebrations include lighting candles and clay lamps, called diyas, all over the house, symbolizing the light within. The festivities are spread out over five days filled with family, food and joy.
When is Diwali 2026?
When is Diwali 2026?
In 2026, the main day of Diwali, Lakshmi Puja, falls on Sunday, November 8. According to Almanac.com, Diwali centers on the darkest night of the lunar month, the new moon.
Here’s how the five days line up for families in the U.S.:
- Friday, November 6: Dhanteras
- Saturday, November 7: Choti Diwali
- Sunday, November 8: Diwali (Lakshmi Puja)
- Monday, November 9: Govardhan Puja
- Tuesday, November 10: Bhai Dooj
Dates can shift by a day depending on your local time zone and the calendar your family or temple follows.
Diwali children’s books to add to your child’s story time rotation
Children’s books on Diwali cover all of the merry aspects of this special occasion. These stories are engaging and beautifully illustrated for little ones. Cultivating a diverse library for your kiddos can start with honoring the different traditions around the world. Check out these Diwali picture books that can help foster a love of different cultures and understanding in your child.
A version of this post was published October 10, 2022. It has been updated.



































































































