Gov. Josh Shapiro signs law recognizing Diwali as a state holiday in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a new bill into law recognizing Diwali as a state holiday in Pennsylvania.
The Keystone State has gained a new official holiday.
On Monday, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 402 into law, officially recognizing Diwali as a state holiday in Pennsylvania.
Officials said the bipartisan legislation marks a significant moment for the Commonwealth, celebrating the rich cultural diversity of its residents and the traditions of the over one billion Buddhists, Hindus, Jains and Sikhs worldwide who celebrate, including hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians.
Diwali, also known as the “festival of lights,” is one of the most popular holidays in South Asian culture. The five-day festival celebrates light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.
Shapiro signed Pennsylvania's newest holiday into law Monday. Courtesy Office of the GovernorThe main celebration occurs on the third day and is typically marked by family gatherings, lighting of lamps, and fireworks.
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