Each autumn, Diwali—the festival of lights—illuminates homes, temples, and hearts across the world. Rooted in ancient traditions and celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, Diwali marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. In 2025, Diwali falls on October 20, with celebrations often lasting several days and culminating in Lakshmi Puja, honouring the goddess of prosperity and new beginnings.
Even far from India’s bustling cities, Diwali carries a special glow in Chilliwack. Families gather to light small oil lamps, share sweets, and reflect on renewal. The rituals are simple but deeply symbolic: cleaning the home, lighting candles or diyas, and preparing festive foods that fill the air with spice and warmth.
What Diwali Represents
At its heart, Diwali is about renewal—the belief that every year offers a fresh start. It’s a time to reflect on personal growth, forgive past grievances, and invite good fortune for the months ahead. Many people begin the day with prayers or gratitude rituals before sharing meals with friends and neighbours.
The festival also marks different milestones across faiths. For many Hindus, it celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after exile. For Sikhs, it coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating Guru Hargobind Ji’s release from imprisonment. Across traditions, the shared theme remains constant: the victory of hope and clarity over confusion and fear.
Bringing Diwali Home
You don’t need fireworks or grand gatherings to celebrate Diwali. Start by lighting a few candles or tealights around your home at sunset. The glow itself—quiet and steady—symbolizes optimism. Some families decorate their doorsteps with rangoli, colourful patterns made from rice flour or flower petals, while others exchange sweets like gulab jamun or barfi.
If you’re planning a festive dinner, you can explore Chilliwack’s vibrant South Asian food scene through our Top 3 Indian Restaurants in Chilliwack guide. For those who prefer to cook at home, try this easy Butter Chicken recipe from Food Network Canada—a creamy, beginner-friendly dish that captures the warmth of Indian cooking with ingredients you can find at any grocery store.
Community and Connection
Part of Diwali’s beauty lies in its inclusivity. Friends often exchange small gifts or homemade treats; neighbours share meals; families open their doors to guests. Even a simple gesture—inviting someone to light a candle with you—echoes the festival’s essence of generosity and welcome.
Nearby communities also host larger public celebrations. The Abbotsford Diwali Festival, held this year on October 19 at Mill Lake Park, features music, dance performances, and food vendors showcasing South Asian cuisine. It’s an open invitation for anyone who wants to experience the energy of Diwali firsthand.
The Spirit of Light
However you choose to celebrate, Diwali offers a pause in the year—a reminder that light, kindness, and gratitude are choices we can make daily. As candles flicker against the autumn dark, they reflect something simple yet profound: the belief that even a small light can brighten a long night.
