What to Bring to a Diwali Party

What to bring to a Diwali party

A small gift for the hosts is customary. These are all safe choices:

• A box of Indian sweets (mithai) from an Indian sweet shop. This is the most traditional guest gift. See which Diwali sweets to give.
• A box of dry fruits and nuts, which keeps longer than sweets.
• A set of diyas or a candle, fitting for the festival of lights.
• Flowers, ideally already in a vase, or a plant.
• Good chocolates, especially if the hosts are likely to receive lots of mithai.

Around $15 to $30 is typical for a guest gift. If you're a close friend or staying for a long dinner, some people bring a little more. See Diwali gift ideas for more.

What not to bring

• Meat or fish, or dishes made with them. Many families eat vegetarian food during the festival.
• Sweets or cakes with eggs or gelatin, unless you know the family eats them.
• Alcohol, unless you know your hosts drink. Many don't, for religious or personal reasons.
• Leather gifts, which some Hindu families prefer to avoid.
• Black wrapping paper. Bright colors like red, yellow, gold and orange feel more festive.

These aren't strict rules for every family, but avoiding them means your gift will be welcome in almost any home.

What to wear to a Diwali party

Dress up a little. Diwali is a festive occasion, and many guests wear their best clothes.

• Bright, festive colors like red, yellow, orange, gold, pink or green are a good choice.
• Indian clothes are welcome if you have them, or if your hosts suggest it, but smart everyday clothes are completely fine.
• Many people avoid all-black or all-white outfits for festivals, though this varies.
• Wear shoes that slip off easily. Many families remove shoes at the door, especially near the prayer area.
• Choose comfortable clothes for sitting. You may sit on cushions or the floor during prayers or meals.

How to greet your hosts

"Happy Diwali" is always right. You might also hear "Shubh Deepavali" (Hindi) or greetings in your hosts' own language. Some Sikh families celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas at the same time, and some Jain families mark the day in their own way. Don't worry about getting it perfect; a warm wish is what matters.

Want to write a card? See what to write in a Diwali card.

What happens at a Diwali party

• Lights and decorations. Expect diyas, candles, fairy lights and often a colorful rangoli design at the entrance. Step around the rangoli, not on it.
• A puja (prayer). Some families do a short Lakshmi Puja in the evening. You're welcome to watch quietly, or join if invited. Stand or sit respectfully, and follow what others do.
• Food, and lots of it. Usually a vegetarian meal and many sweets. It's polite to try a little of what's offered.
• Sparklers or fireworks. Some families light them outside. Follow the hosts' safety instructions, and keep children close.
• Sweets to take home. Hosts often give guests a small box of sweets as they leave.

Bringing children

Diwali is a family festival, and children are usually very welcome. Check first, though. If you bring them, keep them away from open flames, and remind them not to step on the rangoli. A small sweet or a pack of colored chalk for the host's children is a kind extra.

After the party

Send a short thank-you message the next day. Mention something specific, like the food, the lights or meeting their family. See thank-you gift ideas for more ways to say thanks.