Diwali is a 5 day festival, with Diwali night centering on the autumn new moon. Diwali typically falls towards the end of October or early November in our calendar. This year Diwali falls on Wednesday November 11th.
The 3rd day is the main day of celebrations, after the Puja, people go outside and celebrate by lighting up patakhe (fireworks). Children enjoy sparklers and small fireworks while the adults use sutli bombs, rockets and larger fireworks such as single ignition cakes.
Fireworks signify celebration of diwali (festival of lights) as well as a way to chase away evil spirits . After the fireworks, people head back to family feast with numerous mithai (sweets and desserts), gifts are given and a good time is had by all. They other main part of the celebration is the lighting of diyas (oil lamps), candles and lanterns, people also do colourful folk art floor decorations called rangoli.