When is Diwali in 2025 in Chicago, USA: October 20 or 21? Know date, Lakshmi Puja muhurat and timings

As fall settles over Chicago and the breeze turns crisp, thousands of homes across the city will soon sparkle with lamps and laughter. Diwali 2025 is around the corner, and the city’s Indian community is already gearing up for the Festival of Lights.But there’s one common question many families are asking — is Diwali on October 20 or 21 this year? Here’s your complete guide with puja timings and rituals, tailored for Chicago, Illinois.In Chicago, Diwali will be celebrated on Monday, October 20, 2025. This date is based on the Amavasya Tithi (new moon), which is traditionally observed for Diwali. Although the tithi continues into the early morning of October 21, the evening of October 20 holds the ideal time for Lakshmi Puja.This night is when families light diyas, perform rituals, and pray for prosperity and happiness in the year ahead.Lakshmi Puja is the highlight of Diwali night. The ritual is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, believed to bring wealth, peace, and abundance to the home.For Chicago in 2025, the Lakshmi Puja muhurat falls between 07:09 PM and 08:39 PM.This timing aligns with the evening Pradosh Kaal and Vrishabha Lagna, both of which are considered highly auspicious for invoking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.The Pradosh Kaal begins at 06:01 PM and ends at 08:39 PM in Chicago. This twilight period is considered spiritually powerful and perfect for Diwali rituals. It’s the time when homes begin to glow with diyas, and preparations for Lakshmi Puja begin.The Amavasya Tithi begins at 05:14 AM on Monday, October 20, 2025. This marks the official start of the Diwali tithi, making the entire day suitable for preparations and the evening perfect for the main puja.Amavasya Tithi ends at 07:24 AM on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. While the tithi technically continues into the next morning, the best time for Lakshmi Puja is during the evening of October 20, based on traditional Hindu beliefs.Whether you're in Naperville, Schaumburg, Devon Avenue, or a downtown apartment, Diwali rituals can be beautifully observed in your Chicago home. Here's a simple way to celebrate: