Diwali is coming up, and if you’re looking for ways to celebrate around Montgomery, Princeton and Central New Jersey, there are several local events happening this year.
One of my favorite things about living in this area is how many different cultures and traditions are represented in our community. Even if you don’t personally celebrate Diwali, these events can be a really nice way to experience the food, music, and traditions surrounding Diwali, the Festival of Lights.
Here are a few 2026 Diwali events worth checking out:
Diwali Fair 2026 — Princeton
Sunday, October 18 | 12 PM–7 PM
Hyatt Regency Princeton, 102 Carnegie Center Dr., Princeton
This looks like one of the bigger celebrations close to Montgomery. The Diwali Fair is scheduled to include music, dance, shopping, exhibitions and a fashion show, with different Indian languages and cultures represented throughout the event.
General admission is currently listed as free.
Diwali Fair 2026 event details
Diwali @ The Commons — Bridgewater
Saturday, October 24 | 1–3 PM
Bridgewater Commons, Center Court, 400 Commons Way, Bridgewater
If you’re looking for something a little closer to Somerset County, Bridgewater Commons is bringing back its annual Diwali celebration.
The 2026 event is being held in partnership with Renascent Media and will feature a live show celebrating the South Asian Festival of Lights. Bridgewater Commons says additional details are still coming.
In previous years, the celebration has included music, dance, family crafts, henna, Indian sweets and other activities, so this is definitely one I’ll be watching as they announce the full 2026 schedule.
Diwali @ The Commons event details
Princeton Diwali Bazaar
Sunday, November 1 | 12–8 PM
DoubleTree by Hilton Princeton, 4355 US-1, Princeton
If you love the shopping side of Diwali, this one might be worth adding to your calendar.
The Princeton Diwali Bazaar is expected to have 40+ vendors selling Indian and Pakistani clothing, jewelry and accessories, along with food and cultural performances. The event is family-friendly, parking is listed as free and admission is currently listed as free.
Princeton Diwali Bazaar event details
A Few More Diwali Events Around Central NJ
There are celebrations happening throughout Central Jersey as well. For example, North Brunswick Township is scheduled to hold its annual Diwali Gala on Sunday, October 25 from 2–5 PM, with food, vendors, entertainment and a DJ. Admission is listed as free.
I’ll continue adding events as I find good ones close to Montgomery, so check back as we get closer to Diwali.
Celebrating Diwali in Central New Jersey
One of my favorite parts about sharing local information is finding things that give us another reason to get out and explore the communities around us. Whether you celebrate Diwali every year or you’re simply interested in learning more about the Festival of Lights, there are some great opportunities nearby.
Know of another Diwali celebration around Montgomery, Princeton or Somerset County that should be on this list? Send it my way! I’d love to add more local events.
Event information can change, so I always recommend checking directly with the organizer before heading out.
