Deepawali Festival Day
| Date | Type |
|---|---|
08 Nov 2026 Sunday | BankPublic |
28 Oct 2027 Thursday | BankPublic |
Overview
Deepavali, the Hindu "Festival of Lights," is celebrated by Sri Lanka's Tamil Hindu community, most prominently in the Northern and Eastern provinces, typically falling in October or November. Its central theme, the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, is expressed through several regional legends; one widely told version recounts the god Krishna's defeat of the demon king Narakasura, who, according to the story, asked before his death that the day be remembered with light and colour rather than mourning. Homes are decorated with rows of small oil lamps (diyas) and rangoli or kolam floor patterns at the entrance, and firecrackers are common in Hindu neighbourhoods. Families mark the day with new clothes, visits to relatives, and an exchange of sweets, and in some Tamil communities it's also considered an auspicious time to purchase gold.
Significance
The festival celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, commemorated across South Asia with variations in the specific legend celebrated depending on region and tradition.
How it's observed
Homes are decorated with oil lamps (diyas) and rangoli patterns, and firecrackers are common in Hindu neighbourhoods. Sweets are exchanged between family and friends. Expect some businesses in Tamil-majority areas, particularly in the north and east, to close.
See the Sri Lanka long weekends list or use the interactive holiday planner.