News Summary
New York City Public Schools will close in observance of Diwali, the festival of lights, marking a step towards recognizing cultural diversity. The holiday will be observed on October 20, allowing students and families to celebrate. The inclusion of Diwali reflects the district’s commitment to diversity, with educators encouraged to integrate related lessons into their curriculum. Other upcoming school closures include Election Day and Veterans Day, with additional holidays highlighting various cultural observances.
New York City Public Schools will be closed on Monday, October 20, 2025, in observance of Diwali, the festival of lights celebrated by various cultural communities including Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists. This holiday has been recognized as a public school holiday in NYC since June 2023, marking a significant step towards embracing cultural diversity within the educational system.
The Diwali celebrations this year will span five days, starting on October 20, allowing students and their families to partake in the festivities. Classes will resume on Tuesday, October 21, following the holiday. Following Diwali, public schools will have a closure for Election Day on November 4, 2025, and will also observe Veterans Day with a closure on November 11. Thanksgiving recess is scheduled for November 27 and 28, 2025.
The inclusion of Diwali in the NYC Public Schools academic calendar reflects the district’s commitment to recognizing and teaching students about diverse cultural traditions. Educators are encouraged to incorporate lessons and activities that highlight the significance of Diwali and its celebrations in their curriculum.
School Calendar and Cultural Recognition
The NYC Public Schools academic calendar features multiple days off for various holidays, showcasing a range of cultural observances. Other holidays recognized include Good Friday, Yom Kippur, Eid al-Fitr, Christmas, and Passover. The addition of Diwali aligns with a broader initiative aimed at fostering cultural diversity in schools, an initiative that was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul in November 2023.
Impact on Local Regulations
In observance of Diwali, Alternate Side Parking regulations will be suspended on October 20; however, parking meters will remain operational. Drivers are reminded to adhere to regulations, including the prohibition against parking within 15 feet of fire hydrants, as any violations will result in tickets.
Regional Observance
In addition to New York City, some school districts located outside of the city—such as the Ardsley School District and Scarsdale School District in Westchester County—will also observe Diwali by closing on October 20. Additionally, the Williamsville Central School District in Erie County will recognize the holiday with a school closure. Residents in areas with significant South Asian populations are encouraged to check with their local school district for similar closures related to Diwali.
Accessing the Academic Calendar
Individuals interested in viewing the complete NYC Public Schools academic calendar can do so online, where they can find additional important dates and information regarding school closures throughout the academic year. This transparency allows families to plan around the holiday schedule effectively.
As Diwali approaches, NYC Public Schools’ observance represents a growing recognition of the cultural traditions that contribute to the city’s rich diversity. The engagement with such holidays invites educational opportunities and comprehensive understanding among students and the wider community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New York City Schools Close to Celebrate Diwali Holiday
New York City Recognizes Diwali as Official School Holiday
New York City Public Schools Celebrate Diverse Holidays
New York Senate Proposes Cultural School Holidays
New York City Public Schools Implement Changes to Academic Calendar
Controversy Surrounds Zohran Mamdani’s Education Policies
Ackman Urges Mayor Adams to Withdraw from Mayoral Race
U.S. News Ranks Public High Schools in New York
NYC Public Schools to Recognize Diwali, Lunar New Year, and Eid
New York State Public High School Calendar Updates
Additional Resources
- Silive: NYC Public Schools Closure for Diwali
- New York Times: Diwali Festival of Lights
- News India Times: Diwali as a Public School Holiday
- Google Search: Diwali celebration
- Time Out: NYC Public School Holiday Additions
- Wikipedia: Diwali
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