Diwali, the festival of lights, is the biggest Hindu celebration of the year. It is a time to honor Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, in hopes of bringing about a successful year for a family. The holiday is technically known as the first day of a financial year, and it falls anytime in October or November. Diwali is famous for its use of diyas, clay lamps, that illuminate the households that await the arrival of goddess Lakshmi. This holiday season, however, has many perks in addition to a happy and healthy year ahead.

1. The parties

Dancing, loud Bollywood music and delicious food is definitely the fun part of the Diwali season. Getting dressed up and going out to celebrate with friends and neighbors brings about a sense of unity in the community. Time flies when you party until three in the morning every night of the every weekend for a month.

2. The family Whatsapp messages

When you check your phone after half an hour, you see 40 messages from the family group chat, mainly consisting of gifs of diyas, gods and a big, flashy “HAPPY DIWALI.” Everyone is so fascinated by the cool things they can send, and they surely take full advantage of technology these days!

3. Fireworks

Whether it be sparklers in the yard or a grand show in the cul-de-sac, no Diwali celebration is complete without fireworks. It may disturb the neighbors, but they are probably just sad they can’t join in on the fun.

4. New clothes

With sales and endless advertisements, Diwali is the prime time to invest in some extravagant new Indian clothes. You can buy the prettiest, most expensive outfit and get away with it because, well, it is Diwali.

5. Family

Since it is the biggest Indian celebration of the year, family from all over the country and world get together to spend this special time together. The memories made with loved ones while celebrating Diwali are truly unforgettable.

6. Rangoli

It is almost impossible to tell if looking at rangoli or designing it is more fun. There are endless colors, patterns and designs one can create to represent our beautiful culture at their doorsteps.

7. Lights

From string lights on the front porch to candles in every room of the house, Diwali is probably the brightest holiday to ever exist; after all, it is known as the festival of lights. All evening, every light in the house stays on, and the candles burn all night long. I guess you could say there is never a dull moment in Diwali season!