By: Vandana Jhingan

Diwali celebrations across the U.S. Pacific Northwest received recognition from state and local governments this year, with governors hosting ceremonies at state capitols and official residences and mayors participating in observances at city halls.

According to information released by the Consulate General of India in Seattle, governors of Idaho, Nebraska, Montana, North Dakota and Washington hosted Diwali events during October and November 2026. Oregon is scheduled to host the sixth state-level celebration on November 10 at the State Capitol in Salem.

The celebrations brought together state and local officials, community leaders, diplomats and Indian American residents. In their remarks, governors recognized the Indian American community’s contributions to their states’ economies, professional sectors, civic life and cultural diversity.

Governors recognize Indian American contributions

At the Idaho State Capitol Rotunda in Boise on October 16, Governor Brad Little spoke about the values associated with Diwali and the contributions of the Indian American community.

“Diwali reminds us of the importance of choosing kindness, pursuing knowledge, serving others and finding hope even when there are challenges,” Little said.

He added: “Here in Idaho, we’re proud to have a vibrant Indian community that contributes very much to our state through their businesses, professions, service and civic involvement. Indian Americans help strengthen Idaho’s economy and help our communities be better places to live, work and raise a family.”

Little also noted that the traditions and perspectives brought by different communities strengthen the state, adding that recognizing Diwali provides an opportunity to reaffirm the freedoms that allow people to preserve and share their cultural and religious traditions.

At the Nebraska Governor’s Residence in Lincoln on October 20, Governor Jim Pillen described the Indian American community as an important part of the state.

“The Indian community is an incredibly vital piece of who we are as the people of Nebraska. It’s really important, and this is such a special occasion because light triumphs over evil,” Pillen said.

He also spoke about the festival’s emphasis on family, unity, reflection and gratitude, encouraging families to pass their traditions on to younger generations.

“Happy Diwali, and it’s really important that you keep these traditions alive in your families. Never, ever, ever let the light go out!” he said.

At the Governor’s Residence in Bismarck on October 29, North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong emphasized the importance of relationships and cultural diversity.

“We should celebrate these relationships. We should celebrate these friendships. Diversity is our strength,” Armstrong said.

He also highlighted the broader relationship between India and North Dakota, saying:

“We’re going to continue this relationship because it’s a fantastic one, at an international level, at a trade level, at a state-to-state level, at a diplomatic level, but most importantly, a human level. We have people that have done great things from India in North Dakota, and they don’t always have to be big to be great.”

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte hosted a Diwali celebration at the Governor’s Mansion in Helena on October 26. Speaking about the value of bringing people from different backgrounds together, he said:

“We love bringing people together from many different cultures and backgrounds. Even some Montanans don’t always know who the other person is, and we find that when we get together with no agenda except to get to know each other, break bread together and build relationships.”

Washington highlights its Indian American community

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson hosted a Diwali celebration at the State Capitol Rotunda in Olympia on November 4. He described the festival as a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness and connected its message to the state’s cultural diversity.

“It’s an honor to have all of you here in this really beautiful part of our state capitol. And it’s wonderful to be able to celebrate Diwali with all of you. It is, as has been mentioned a number of times already, a celebration, a triumph of light over darkness,” Ferguson said.

He added that embracing the state’s diversity was an important part of that message.

“That triumph of light over darkness happens when we, speaking as a state, when we lean into the rich diversity of our state. I think that diversity is a great strength. And we see that here today with this wonderful celebration and the strong Indian American community that we have.”

Ferguson also referred to Washington’s significant Indian American population and its growth over the previous decade, noting the community’s contributions to the state.

Diwali observances across 18 Washington cities

Diwali celebrations extended beyond the state capitol to municipal governments across Washington. Mayors of 18 cities participated in individual observances, with ceremonies held in city council chambers and attended by members of their respective city councils.

The celebrations provided an opportunity for local officials to recognize the Indian American community and its cultural contributions. Additional observances were scheduled for November 10 in Snoqualmie, King County and the City of Seattle.

Several state and municipal governments also issued official proclamations recognizing Diwali as a festival symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. The proclamations acknowledged the contributions of Indian Americans to the economic and cultural life of their communities and noted cooperation with the Consulate General of India in Seattle.

Washington’s legislative recognition

Washington has also taken a legislative step toward recognizing the festival. In February 2026, the state Senate passed Senate Bill 6044, recognizing Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas as state observances, although not as legal holidays.

The Consulate General of India in Seattle worked with Indian American community organizations and leaders to coordinate and co-host the celebrations across the participating states and cities.

The events provided opportunities for elected officials and community representatives to acknowledge the Indian American community’s role in local development and to discuss cultural exchange, public service and ties between India and the United States.

The participation of governors and mayors reflects the increasing presence of Diwali in the public and civic life of communities across the Pacific Northwest.