Looking for meaningful Diwali activities for your classroom? Whether you're introducing students to the Festival of Lights for the first time or honouring students’ identities, Diwali is an opportunity to explore culture, traditions, and community.

If you're looking for low-prep, engaging Diwali classroom activities, here are some of my favourite resources to make planning easy.

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A picture of a hand with bangles on the wrist holding a diya with the text, "Diwali Classroom Activities"

Picture Books about Diwali

One of the best ways to introduce Diwali is through children's books. Picture books help students connect with the traditions and symbolism of the celebration while encouraging thoughtful discussions.

The Best Diwali Ever
Author: Sonali Shah
Illustrator: Chaaya Prabhat

Ariana eagerly prepares for Diwali by decorating, cooking, and celebrating with her family. She plans to enter and win a rangoli competition, but challenges arise in the form of her mischievous and clumsy little brother, Rafi. Will he ruin everything for her?

Binny’s Diwali
Author: Thrity Umrigar
Illustrator: Nidhi Chanani

Binny is excited to talk to her class about Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights during Show and Tell. When the big moment comes, she is struck with shyness and unable to get the words out. Fortunately, her teacher provides support and she is able to describe the traditions of the holiday and shows the class artifacts.

Diwali in My New Home
Author: Shachi Kaushik
Illustrator: Aishwarya Tandon

After moving to the United States, Priya realizes that no one seems to know about Diwali. Although she misses the excitement and traditions back in India, she introduces the celebration to her neighbors and embraces new traditions.

The 52 Princes: The Untold Diwali Story of Bandi Chhor Divas
Author & Illustrator: Sunny Osahn

This story shares the Sikh celebration of Bandi Chhor Divas which took place during Diwali. It tells how Guru Hargobind Ji refused to leave prison unless 52 princes could leave with him, teaching students about courage, justice, and helping others.

Build Background Knowledge with a Diwali Mini Book

I created a 9-page mini book for primary students to learn about Diwali! It gives students an age-appropriate introduction to what Diwali is, why and how it is celebrated, and common traditions. There are writing and drawing response pages and includes both printable and digital versions. Find it in my TPT Store or BP Shop.

Reinforce Vocabulary with a Diwali Bingo Game

Games make learning memorable. This Diwali Bingo Game helps students review important vocabulary while having fun together. Students become familiar with words and symbols such as diya, rangoli, and sweets. This resource includes 30 colourful Bingo boards, calling cards, and a template for student-created Bingo boards.

Available in my TPT Store and BP Shop.

Create a Collaborative Diwali Poster

One of my favourite classroom displays is a collaborative colouring poster. Each student colours one piece before the class assembles the entire image together. Not only does this create beautiful artwork, but it also reinforces the idea that everyone contributes something meaningful to the classroom community. There are 3 options included - 18 pieces, 24 pieces, and 36 pieces! It’s in my TPT Store and BP Shop.

Diwali Video

The TVO Kids series, It’s My Party, has an episode on Diwali! Kiara celebrates Diwali and is preparing to host a Diwali party with her guest Isaac.

Why Teach About Diwali?

Learning about Diwali isn't simply about completing a holiday craft. It's an opportunity for students to appreciate traditions from around the world, build empathy and respect, make connections between cultures, and celebrate diversity within their own classroom. Even if none of your students celebrate Diwali at home, learning about world celebrations helps children become thoughtful global citizens.

If you're looking for engaging Diwali activities for elementary students, these resources make planning simple while keeping students actively involved. Whether you're teaching a social studies unit, exploring celebrations around the world, or simply introducing students to the Festival of Lights, these resources are designed to help students learn through reading, discussion, and collaboration.