PA Gets Festive New Holiday: Diwali

PENNSYLVANIA ? You won't get the day off, but Pennsylvania now has one extra holiday to celebrate: Diwali.

Gov. Josh Shapiro on Monday signed legislation making Diwali an official holiday in the state, although not one requiring school, government or employer closings. Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists.

It's a five-day festival marking the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. The primary celebration occurs on the festival's third day and features family gatherings, lighting of lamps and fireworks.

?Thousands of Pennsylvanians celebrate Diwali each year, as a time of reflection and gathering,? state Sen. Greg Rothman, the Cumberland County Republican who sponsored the holiday bill, said in a statement. ?Recognizing Diwali as an official state holiday upholds and celebrates our commonwealth?s rich cultural diversity.?

This year, Diwali will be celebrated from Oct. 29 to Nov. 3, with the main festival day occurring on Oct. 31.