What is diwali

What is Diwali? I know it's an Indian celebration of some kind and that its coming up but I have no idea what its about. A friend of a friend invited me to a Diwali party and I have no idea what to expect.

Diwali (also called Deepavali, #2342;#2367;#2357;#2366;#2354;#2368; or #2342;#2368;#2346;#2366;#2357;#2354;#2368 is a major Hindu, Jain, Sikh and Buddhist festival/celebration. Known as the Festival of Lights, it symbolises the victory of good over evil, and lamps are lit as a sign of celebration and hope for mankind. Celebrations focus on lights and lamps, particularly traditional diyas (as illustrated). Fireworks are associated with the festival in some regions of the country.

Deepavali is celebrated for five consecutive days in the Hindu month of Ashwayuja. It usually occurs in October/November, and is one of the most popular and eagerly awaited festivals of India. Hindus, Jains and Sikhs alike regard it as a celebration of life and use the occasion to strengthen family and social relationships. For Jains it is one of the most important festivals, and beginning of the Jain year. It is also a significant festival for the Sikh faith.

Basically, its a festival of lights and colors(kinda)..........good food, great music and filled with tradition.

i'm a muslim myself but i have uncles who are hindus and I go to diwali parties with them all the time, its fun but i really think if you ask your friend who invited you to the party, he/she would be more than happy to tell you what it is and guide you through the tradional expectations..........

hope this helps

forgot to give the pick of a diya...

Thanks for the great reply, I will definitely ask my friend about what I should take with me to the party and more about the celebration itself. I just got the invite this morning in my email so I thought I would drop the question here so I don't feel completely ignorant when I talk to her again