Diwali 2025 NYC: Times Square celebration and Jackson Heights events with dates, lineup, transit, temple links, and puja timings. Plan your festival weekend.

Diwali 2025 NYC: Times Square Celebration & Jackson Heights Guide
Diwali 2025 NYC: Times Square Celebration & Jackson Heights Events is your all-in-one planner for New York City’s biggest Festival of Lights weekend. From the dazzling Times Square celebration to the vibrant streets of Jackson Heights, you’ll find verified links, maps, temple options, transit tips, and a simple home puja schedule. Whether you’re part of the NYC Indian community, visiting from out of town, or simply love cultural festivals, this guide helps you beat crowds, see headliners, and enjoy authentic food—without guesswork.
You’ll also get NYC-specific safety and fireworks rules, a 5-day Diwali calendar, family-friendly itineraries, and shopping suggestions so you can make the most of the season.
Table of Contents
- Quick Answer: Dates, Locations, Tickets, and What’s New
- Times Square Diwali 2025: What to Expect and How to Plan
- Jackson Heights Diwali 2025: Street Events, Food Walk, and Cultural Stops
- 5-Day Diwali Calendar for 2025 + NYC Puja Timing Tips
- Getting There: Subway, LIRR, Parking, and Rideshare
- Food & Shopping: Best Times to Eat, What to Buy, and Where
- Safety, Permits, and Fireworks in NYC
- Weather, What to Wear, and Packing List
- Family, Seniors, and Accessibility Tips
- Itineraries: One Perfect Day in Midtown + Queens
- Temples and Cultural Spots (Addresses + Official Links)
- Key Statistics (with Sources)
- Featured Snippet: Fast Answers People Search For
- Internal Links (Recommended)
- External Links (Authoritative)
Quick Answer: Dates, Locations, Tickets, and What’s New
- Flagship event: Diwali at Times Square (free, outdoor cultural showcase; dates announced closer to fall)
- Official site: https://diwalitimessquare.com
- Location: Times Square, centered around Broadway/7th Ave at W 46th–47th St
- Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=Times+Square,+New+York,+NY+10036
- Area info: Times Square Alliance — https://www.timessquarenyc.org
- Queens hotspot: Jackson Heights Diwali festivities (community-led programs, markets, and cultural performances on/around 74th St)
- Neighborhood hub: 74th St & Roosevelt Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372
- Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=74th+St+%26+Roosevelt+Ave,+Jackson+Heights,+NY+11372
- Event permits calendar (street fairs/closures): NYC SAPO — https://www.nyc.gov/sapo
- Puja timing (home): After local sunset during Pradosh Kaal
- NYC Panchang and muhurats
- NYC October 2025 sunset times: https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/usa/new-york?month=10&year=2025
- Ticketing: Most public Diwali celebrations in NYC are free; special concerts or indoor galas may be ticketed—always check the official page linked above.
Bookmark organizer links now. NYC releases fall festival details 3–6 weeks ahead. Subscribing to event newsletters helps you grab schedules and any reserved seating options early.
Times Square Diwali 2025: What to Expect and How to Plan
The Times Square celebration turns the Crossroads of the World into a glowing stage for South Asian culture—music, dance, fashion, food vendors, and community showcases.
Highlights (Typical Program Flow)
- Cultural performances across Bollywood, bhangra, classical, and folk
- Celebrity hosts and guest artists (announced closer to date)
- Kids’ showcases and diaspora spotlights
- Vendor zone with snacks, chai, festive wear, and handicrafts
- Evening aarti moment (varies by program)
Curiosity spark: Times Square pedestrian counts often top hundreds of thousands per day—so even a “niche” festival can feel like a global stage here.
Location, Hours, and Entry
- Location focus: Father Duffy Square and adjacent blocks
- Entry: Open-air, free to attend; bag checks may occur
- Hours: Afternoon to evening (final schedule on official site)
- Restrooms: Public restrooms are limited; plan nearby stops (Bryant Park public restrooms are a clean option)
Best Arrival Windows
- Families: Arrive in the first hour after program start for easier movement and shorter food lines.
- Photographers: Golden hour in Times Square creates dramatic shots just before the stage lights dominate.
Where to Stand
- Side-aisle edges give easier exit and stroller maneuvering.
- Bring a light foldable seat only if allowed; follow security guidance.
Food Strategy
- Eat a snack before you arrive to avoid the first rush.
- Sample share: buy one savory + one sweet per stall and split—more variety, shorter waits.
Transit Tip
- Subway stops within steps: Times Sq–42 St (1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, S) and 49 St (N, R, W)
- Subway map: https://new.mta.info/maps/subway
Jackson Heights Diwali 2025: Street Events, Food Walk, and Cultural Stops
Jackson Heights is the heart of NYC’s “Little India” and “Little Tibet,” anchored by 74th Street and Roosevelt Avenue. Expect festive window displays, pop-up music/dance, shop promotions, and specialty sweets.
Street Scene and Pop-Ups (Watchlist)
- Community performances and small-stage showcases may appear along 74th St
- Rangoli demos, diya sales, henna, and kids’ craft tables
- Check permits calendar for street fairs/closures: https://www.nyc.gov/sapo
Self-Guided Diwali Food Walk (Easy Route)
- Start: 74th St & Roosevelt Ave (E, F, M, R, 7 subway)
- Explore south toward Broadway and along 37th Ave for snacks, mithai, spices, jewelry, and clothing.
- End: Diversity Plaza (popular community gathering space)
- Address: 37th Rd between 73rd & 74th Sts, Jackson Heights, NY 11372
- Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=37th+Road+Plaza,+Jackson+Heights,+NY+11372
Pro move: Visit mid-afternoon for calmer browsing; return at dusk for lights-and-lantern vibes.
What to Buy (Quick List)
- Diyas, LED tea lights, rangoli powders/stencils
- Festive wear (kurtas, lehengas, jewelry)
- Mithai gift boxes and dry-fruit hampers
- Masalas and specialty teas
Helpful Neighborhood Resources
- MTA station complex (elevators/escalators on multiple corners)
- Neighborhood info (Queens tourism/events): https://itsinqueens.com
5-Day Diwali Calendar for 2025 + NYC Puja Timing Tips
Diwali date varies by lunar calendar. In 2025, plan the core puja for the evening of Monday, October 20 (verify locally).
- Dhanteras: Saturday, Oct 18, 2025
- Chhoti Diwali (Narak Chaturdashi): Sunday, Oct 19, 2025
- Diwali/Lakshmi Puja: Monday, Oct 20, 2025
- Govardhan Puja/Annakut: Tuesday, Oct 21, 2025
- Bhai Dooj: Wednesday, Oct 22, 2025
NYC Puja Window (home):
- Start after local sunset during Pradosh Kaal (roughly early evening)
- Verify Amavasya Tithi and muhurat for NYC:
- NYC sunset (Oct 2025): https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/usa/new-york?month=10&year=2025
Home Puja Checklist:
- Set up Lakshmi–Ganesha images or murtis on a clean altar.
- Light diyas; offer flowers, sweets, and fruit.
- Recite a short mantra or Lakshmi Ashtakam.
- Perform aarti; share prasad with neighbors and friends.
Getting There: Subway, LIRR, Parking, and Rideshare
Times Square
- Subway: Times Sq–42 St (1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, S) and 49 St (N, R, W)
- LIRR/NJ Transit/Amtrak: Arrive at Moynihan Train Hall/Penn Station; 10–12 minute walk
- Rideshare: Use pickup zones on avenues to avoid gridlock at the core.
- Parking: Street parking is extremely limited. Use garages and book in advance via a trusted app (SpotHero or ParkWhiz).
- SpotHero NYC: https://spothero.com
- ParkWhiz NYC: https://www.parkwhiz.com/cities/new-york/
Jackson Heights
- Subway: E, F, M, R, 7 to Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Av/74 St–Broadway
- LIRR: Woodside station + transfer to 7 train toward 74 St
- Map (Woodside): https://maps.google.com/?q=61st+St-Woodside+Station,+Queens,+NY
- Parking: Residential side streets fill up; consider garages near Roosevelt Ave.
Accessibility:
- Many stations have elevators; check MTA’s elevator status before you go:
- MTA accessibility: https://new.mta.info/accessibility
Food & Shopping: Best Times to Eat, What to Buy, and Where
Times Square Area
- Festival vendors change yearly. For sit-down options with space, consider stepping one block off the main corridors.
- Reserve early if you want a table-view of the event zone. Be flexible—security perimeters shift.
Jackson Heights Essentials
- Shop early week for diyas, decor, and attire to avoid weekend rush.
- Ask for allergen info; many mithai shops label nut/dairy content.
- Bring a reusable tote; you’ll likely pick up more than you planned.
What to Buy:
- Clay diyas or LED lamps, rangoli kits, incense, fresh flowers
- Gift hampers, artisanal candles, masalas, tea blends
- Kids’ craft kits for diya painting and rangoli art
Safety, Permits, and Fireworks in NYC
NYC strictly regulates consumer fireworks.
- Fireworks in NYC: Personal fireworks are illegal, including sparklers.
- FDNY Fireworks Safety: https://www.nyc.gov/site/fdny/fire-safety/safety-topics/fireworks-safety.page
- Event permits and street fairs:
- NYC Street Activity Permit Office (SAPO): https://www.nyc.gov/sapo
- Large public events (like Times Square) have security screening and barricades. Follow staff instructions and posted signs.
Safety Tips:
- Keep valuables zipped and front-facing in dense crowds.
- Set a group meeting spot and share phone locations.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes.
Contrarian viewpoint: Skipping fireworks in NYC isn’t just the law—it often makes the night calmer, safer, and more enjoyable for families, pets, and neighbors.
Weather, What to Wear, and Packing List
October evenings in NYC can be cool—especially in open plazas like Times Square.
- Typical October temps: Highs ~18°C/64°F, lows ~10°C/50°F
- Climate reference (NYC): https://www.timeanddate.com/weather/usa/new-york/climate
- Wear layers: Light sweater or shawl, wind-resistant outer layer for night.
- Pack:
- Refillable water bottle
- Portable phone charger
- Small umbrella or rain shell
- Hand sanitizer and tissues
- Compact picnic mat (for Queens parks or plazas)
Family, Seniors, and Accessibility Tips
- Families with kids: Arrive early; pick an edge spot for easy exits.
- Strollers: Use side aisles; be mindful of barricade pinch points.
- Seniors: Bring a folding seat if allowed; opt for late afternoon slots.
- Sensory-friendly: Pack noise-reducing headphones and schedule short breaks away from speakers.
- Accessibility: Check MTA elevator status and plan curb-friendly pickup zones.
Itineraries: One Perfect Day in Midtown + Queens
Option A: Times Square Focus (Visitors)
- 2:00 PM: Early snack near Bryant Park (restroom break)
- 3:00 PM: Arrive at Times Square via subway (Times Sq–42 St)
- 3:15 PM: Explore vendor zone and secure a side-aisle viewing spot
- 4:00–7:30 PM: Enjoy performances; swap out for food in shifts
- 8:00 PM: Post-show photos; exit before the final rush
- 8:30 PM: Hot chai or late dinner one block off the main stretch
Option B: Queens Culture Day (Locals)
- 2:30 PM: Start at Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Av station
- 2:45 PM: DIY food walk along 74th St (mithai, chaat, gifts)
- 4:30 PM: Pause at Diversity Plaza for performances or people-watching
- 5:30 PM: Head home for Lakshmi Puja after sunset
- 8:00 PM: Return for dessert and night photos on 74th St
Temples and Cultural Spots (Addresses + Official Links)
- The Hindu Temple Society of North America (Sri Maha Vallabha Ganapati Devasthanam)
- Address: 45-57 Bowne St, Flushing, NY 11355
- Official: https://www.nyganeshtemple.org
- Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=45-57+Bowne+St,+Flushing,+NY+11355
- Vaishnav Temple of New York (Long Island; popular for Annakut)
- Address: 100 Lakeville Rd, New Hyde Park, NY 11040
- Official: https://www.vtli.org
- Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=100+Lakeville+Rd,+New+Hyde+Park,+NY+11040
- Asia Society Museum (often hosts Diwali family/cultural programs; check calendar)
- Address: 725 Park Ave, New York, NY 10021
- Official: https://asiasociety.org/new-york
- Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=725+Park+Ave,+New+York,+NY+10021
- Brooklyn Children’s Museum (regularly programs South Asian cultural days; check events)
- Address: 145 Brooklyn Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213
- Official: https://www.brooklynkids.org
- Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=145+Brooklyn+Ave,+Brooklyn,+NY+11213
- Times Square Alliance (area info, public space guidelines)
- Address: 1560 Broadway, Suite 1001, New York, NY 10036
- Official: https://www.timessquarenyc.org
- Map: https://maps.google.com/?q=1560+Broadway,+New+York,+NY+10036
Note: Always check each site 2–3 weeks before Diwali for special aarti times, Annakut schedules, and any ticketed programs.
Key Statistics (with Sources)
- Times Square pedestrian volume averages 300,000+ per day, with peaks far higher during major events.
- Source: Times Square Alliance — https://www.timessquarenyc.org
- Hindu adults make up about 1% of the U.S. population; the community is concentrated in major metros like NYC.
- Source: Pew Research Center (Religious Landscape studies and updates) — https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/
- October sunset timing in NYC typically ranges around 6:00–6:30 PM by mid-late month—important for home puja planning.
- Source: timeanddate (NYC Sun) — https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/usa/new-york?month=10&year=2025
- Consumer fireworks are illegal in NYC; violations can result in fines and confiscation.
- Source: FDNY Fireworks Safety — https://www.nyc.gov/site/fdny/fire-safety/safety-topics/fireworks-safety.page
Featured Snippet: Fast Answers People Search For
- When is Diwali 2025 in NYC?
- Plan for Monday, Oct 20, 2025 (verify local muhurat and sunset).
- Where is the Times Square celebration?
- Times Square (around W 46th–47th St, Broadway/7th Ave). Official updates: https://diwalitimessquare.com
- What’s happening in Jackson Heights?
- Community-led performances, shopping, and food on/around 74th St. Check NYC SAPO permits calendar for street fairs: https://www.nyc.gov/sapo
- What time should I do Lakshmi Puja?
- After sunset during Pradosh Kaal. NYC muhurat:
- Are fireworks allowed?
- No. Consumer fireworks are illegal in NYC. FDNY guidance: https://www.nyc.gov/site/fdny/fire-safety/safety-topics/fireworks-safety.page
External Links (Authoritative)
- Diwali at Times Square (official): https://diwalitimessquare.com
- Times Square Alliance (area info): https://www.timessquarenyc.org
- NYC SAPO (street activity permits): https://www.nyc.gov/sapo
- FDNY Fireworks Safety: https://www.nyc.gov/site/fdny/fire-safety/safety-topics/fireworks-safety.page
- Drik Panchang NYC muhurats: https://www.drikpanchang.com/america/usa/new-york/new-york.html
- NYC sunset (Oct 2025): https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/usa/new-york?month=10&year=2025
- MTA Subway Map: https://new.mta.info/maps/subway
Related internal guides
- Diwali 2025 USA: Complete Celebration Guide with Dates, Events & Traditions
- Diwali 2025 New York & New Jersey: Aarti, Festivals, and Sweets
- Bay Area Diwali 2025: Cupertino to San Jose Planner
- Diwali Festival 2025 Edison NJ – America’s Biggest Diwali Celebration
- Home Lakshmi Puja: 20-Minute Step-by-Step with List
FAQ: Diwali 2025 NYC: Times Square Celebration & Jackson Heights Events
When is the Times Square Diwali event in 2025?
Dates post closer to fall. Follow the organizer for 2025 announcements: https://diwalitimessquare.com and area updates at https://www.timessquarenyc.org
Is the Times Square celebration free?
Yes, Diwali at Times Square is typically free to attend. Some VIP or indoor segments may be ticketed—watch the official site.
What about Jackson Heights events?
Expect cultural activities, shopping, and food along 74th St near Roosevelt Ave. For official street fair/closure info, check NYC SAPO: https://www.nyc.gov/sapo
What time should I do Lakshmi Puja at home in NYC?
After local sunset during Pradosh Kaal. Verify exact muhurat for NYC:
Sunset times: https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/usa/new-york?month=10&year=2025
Are fireworks allowed in NYC on Diwali?
No. Consumer fireworks (including sparklers) are illegal in NYC. FDNY guidance: https://www.nyc.gov/site/fdny/fire-safety/safety-topics/fireworks-safety.page
What should I wear and bring?
Layers for cool evenings, comfortable shoes, a portable charger, and a small umbrella. Bring a reusable tote for shopping in Jackson Heights.
How crowded does it get?
Times Square draws large crowds, especially at peak hours. Arrive early, pick an edge-viewing spot, and plan an exit route ahead of time.
Conclusion with CTA
Diwali 2025 NYC: Times Square Celebration & Jackson Heights Events brings the city’s lights and culture into full glow—from marquee performances in Midtown to neighborhood magic in Queens. With official links, maps, transit tips, and a simple puja plan, you’re ready to design a memorable festival weekend that’s smooth, safe, and deeply meaningful.
Save this guide, share it with your group, and set a reminder to check the official Times Square schedule and NYC SAPO listings. Want a personalized plan—best arrival time, food crawl in Jackson Heights, or a family-friendly temple route? Comment with your day, group size, and where you’re coming from. Which moment are you most excited to experience this Diwali?