title
Presentation of the Diwali Proclamation
memo
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Colleen Tribby, City Manager
Prepared By: Vanessa Rosales, CMC, Deputy City Clerk
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
summary
The City Council will present the Diwali proclamation.
recommendation header
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
end
recommendation text
Present the proclamation.
body
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None.
DESCRIPTION:
November 6-10, 2026 marked the annual occurrence of Diwali, a festival of lights celebrated in the autumn of each year by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and others around the world. Celebrations typically include lighting the diya, or oil lamp, which symbolizes dispelling darkness and bringing light into life with traditional offerings, rituals, and festivals. Diwali also involves traditions such as gatherings with friends and family for community prayer, exchanging gifts, and decorating houses with colorful rangolis (decorative works of art created on the ground). For many Hindu communities, Diwali marks the end of the lunar year, with the New Year beginning the following day. California officially recognizes Diwali as a state holiday, following Governor Gavin Newsom’s signing of Assembly Bill 268 on October 6, 2025.
The City recognized Diwali as part of its annual proclamation in January and illuminated City facilities to celebrate the occasion. Due to the November 3 City Council meeting falling on Election Day and having an early start time, the City Council is formally presenting the proclamation (Attachment 1) at the November 17 meeting.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:
None.
NOTICING REQUIREMENTS/PUBLIC OUTREACH:
The City Council Agenda was posted.
ATTACHMENTS:
1) Diwali Proclamation