Cultural Events

Do you know about cultural holidays in the fall, such as Diwali, Filipino American History Month, and Indigenous Peoples Day? In this article, we’ll be discussing all of these holidays in detail. Ready? Let’s dive in!

The biggest Indian festival celebrated in October and November is called Diwali. According to Indian mythology, the festival was first celebrated to mark the return of King Ram to his kingdom after being in exile for 14 years. This year, the holiday is observed on October 20th. Diwali (the festival of lights) is celebrated by lighting diyas, or small candles, all around the house for five days and making rangolis, which are patterns made from colorful flowers placed outside their doorsteps. People also light firecrackers, make delicious food (such as ladoos, kaju barfi, and gulab jamun), and wear new clothes. This festival is widely celebrated across the world, and around 80% of the Indian US population also celebrates it! As William Shakespeare said, “How far that little candle throws his beams!” The festival usually symbolizes the victory of good over evil and that light always overcomes darkness. 

Next, let’s talk about Filipino American History Month, which is celebrated throughout October. Filipino American History Month, or F.A.H.M, celebrates and acknowledges the entire population of Filipinos and the significant contributions Filipino people have made to our country. Some of these contributions are in the fields of politics, health services, arts, and more. Other contributions are from famous artists who are of Filipino background, such as Bruno Mars and Olivia Rodrigo. Filipino American History Month was officially established in 1992, and President Barack Obama celebrated the first F.A.H.M in the White House in 2015. Even though this custom is relatively new, its appreciation is widespread, and it is now an annual event. Let’s all recognize Filipino people, and the importance of their contributions to the U.S.A together!

Did you know that Indigenous Peoples Day was created entirely by Native American tribe leaders? Every October 13th, people across the US celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, a day to honor and respect the many Native American tribes living in the U.S. In 1992, tribal leaders across America launched Indigenous Peoples Day on the 500th anniversary of Columbus Day as a counter celebration. In 2021, former President Joe Biden celebrated it as a holiday, but it was still not officially a federal holiday. However, to the dismay of many Indigenous people, on October 9th, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation that announced that Columbus Day will be celebrated everywhere in the United States. “Columbus Day, we’re back,” said President Trump. 

Indigenous Peoples Day is often confused with Native American Heritage Day, which is also a holiday to celebrate native people. Native American Heritage Day was made a holiday in 2009 when President Barack Obama signed “The Native American Heritage Day Resolution 2009”, which had unanimous support in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate. On the day of the signing, President Barack Obama said: “I encourage every American to join me in observing Native American Heritage Day ... It is also important for all of us to understand the rich culture, tradition, and history of Native Americans and their status today, and to appreciate the contributions that First Americans have made and will continue to make to our Nation.” Indigenous Peoples Day and Native American Heritage are both days you can help celebrate the native people of this land. Let’s help make the world a little kinder!