Here’s How to Celebrate Diwali, Aka the Festival of Lights

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Treat Yourself (and Others)

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The third day of Diwali (when most of the actual parties happen) is a great time to invest in fun purchases, whether that’s gifts for your loved ones or just to have! “If you buy something on the third day, it will bring a lot of prosperity to your life,” explains Bhasin. And there’s a wiiide range of stuff to try to secure, says Bhasin, like “utensils, accessories, home goods, cars, or jewelry.”

Light It Up

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Whether with lamps, string lights, or candles, setting up a bright display in the home is an intrinsic part of Diwali that anybody can participate in. “We have this belief that if we leave the lights on, Ganesha and Lakshmi will come to our house,” explains Bhasin. “I want everybody [in America] to light a lamp in their house and bring the light—everybody can be a part of this beautiful festival.” Wishing you bright lights and lots of ~prosperity~ this Diwali, bbs.

Tidy Up

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Diwali is all about inviting Lord Ganesha (the remover of obstacles) and Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth) into your home. Many believe they grace only clean, well-decorated spaces, so it’s time to channel your inner Marie Kondo and thoroughly organize your abode, stat.

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Cue Up a Solid Playlist

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Time to channel your inner DJ for Diwali. There are quite literally hundreds of premade playlists out there to set the mood at your Diwali celebrations, whether you’re hosting an official celebration with family or planning a casual Diwali party with pals. Curate a lineup of your own fave dance tracks, and consider your playlist to be the perfect party contribution, especially if cooking isn’t your thing.

Check Out a Local Festival

london mayor hosts diwali celebrations

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If you’re looking for killer performances, delicious food, and just all-around great energy, then I highly suggest you hit up a local Diwali celebration. Just consult good ol’ Google and look into fun Diwali celebrations near you. For example, the annual larger-than-life event held in New York City’s Times Square features a new year countdown, which is much more fun (and *way* less touristy) than watching the ball drop on January 1.

Support a Charity

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Yes, this is usually a holiday for exchanging gifts with your loved ones, but do you know what? We challenge you to spread that wholesome Diwali love a little further this year. Need inspo for ways to embrace the giving spirit? We suggest connecting with a local food bank, donating to an organization you care about, or even paying it forward in line at a grocery store or drive-through. Keep that good energy holiday flowing throughout your community.

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Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

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Desserts and Diwali go hand in hand because nothing says gratitude and prosperity like sweets. (To be fair, desserts go hand in hand with literally everything—but especially Diwali.) Grab some candy to celebrate, or maybe finally try your hand at making your own amazing coconut ladoo and chocolate burfi. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either recipe.

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Annabel Iwegbue

Annabel Iwegbue is an assistant editor at Cosmopolitan who covers lifestyle, fashion, and astrology. Before joining Cosmo, she covered pop culture and entertainment for Harper’s Bazaar, The Knockturnal, and Black Film. You can check out some of Annabel’s work here and also find her on Instagram and Twitter.

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