Dussehra 2026 in the USA falls on Tuesday, October 20. Also called Vijayadashami or Dasara, the festival marks the victory of good over evil. It is associated with Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana and, in other traditions, Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura.
Across the USA, Dussehra brings Indian families together for temple prayers, Ravan Dahan, and cultural programs. Depending on local traditions, celebrations also feature Bathukamma, Garba, Dandiya, and family-friendly activities.
Although Vijayadashami falls on October 20, 2026, many Indian associations across the USA plan their Dussehra festivities around the nearest weekend to draw larger family crowds. Here are some Dussehra 2026 events across the USA to look out for.
When Is Dussehra 2026 in the USA?
Dussehra 2026 falls on Tuesday, October 20. Indian communities across major U.S. cities mark the day with prayers, temple rituals, and traditional celebrations. Puja timings vary by location, so check with your local temple for the schedule.
Although Dussehra falls on October 20, communities across the USA schedule their celebrations on different dates, including the surrounding weekend. Many temples and community organizations plan larger celebrations for the nearest weekend, making it easier for families to attend.
Dussehra 2026 Events Across the USA
California: Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka
The Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka 2026 in Pleasanton is one of the major South Asian community celebrations in the Bay Area.
- Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
- Time: 12 PM–11 PM
- Venue: Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton, California
- Address: 2005 Valley Avenue, Pleasanton, CA
The event features a Ravan Dahan ceremony, Ram Leela, Bollywood performances, Dandiya, food and shopping vendors, carnival rides and fireworks. The organizers list a 40-foot Ravan effigy and a large family entertainment area among the highlights.
Texas: Dussehra and Dasara Celebrations
Texas has several Indian community events around the Dussehra period, including celebrations focused on Telugu traditions.
TPAD Bathukamma Dasara Sambaralu
The Telangana People’s Association of Dallas is hosting Bathukamma Dasara Sambaralu 2026 in Frisco.
- Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
- Venue: Comerica Center, Frisco, Texas
- Address: 2601 Avenue of the Stars, Frisco, TX
The event includes Bathukamma celebrations, entertainment and cultural activities. TPAD lists the event as free and highlights its indoor venue and family-oriented programme.
Radha Krishna Temple Dussehra
The Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas in Allen will hold its Dussehra celebration on the actual festival date.
- Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Venue: Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas, Allen, Texas
- Address: 1450 N. Watters Road, Allen, TX
The evening kicks off with Dussehra Yantra and Ayudh Pooja at 6 PM, followed by cultural performances and Ravan Dahan at 6:30 PM. Garba and Dandiya start at 7:30 PM. You’ll need a ticket to enter the Garba hall.
New Jersey: Bathukamma and Dasara
Dussehra celebrations in New Jersey include Telugu cultural programs, traditional festivities, and community events held during the festival season.
MATA Bathukamma & Dasara
MATA New Jersey has scheduled its Bathukamma and Dasara celebration for October 17 at Royal Albert’s Palace in Fords.
The programme includes Durga Pooja, Bathukamma, cultural activities, competitions, vendors and prasadam. The published event information lists free entry with RSVP required.
Illinois: Dasara Community Events
Indian communities across the Chicago suburbs celebrate Dasara with cultural programmes and family gatherings around Vijayadashami. Telugu community groups organize festive programs that showcase regional traditions through music, dance, cultural performances, and family activities. Before heading out, check the event organizer’s latest announcement for the date, venue, and ticket details.
How Is Dussehra Celebrated in the USA?
Dussehra programs in the USA range from temple pujas and Ravan Dahan ceremonies to cultural shows, music, dance, and family-oriented activities. Visitors can watch Ravan Dahan, enjoy Ram Leela performances, attend temple puja, or join Garba and Dandiya events. Many festivals also feature Indian food stalls and activities for families.
Each community celebrates in its own way. Telugu associations often mark Dasara alongside Bathukamma, while larger public events add fireworks, shopping stalls, live music, and entertainment for all ages.
How to Plan for Dussehra Events in USA
Before attending a Dussehra celebration, check the organizer’s official event page for the latest date, timing, venue, tickets, parking and registration requirements. Weekend events can also fall several days before or after October 20.
If you are travelling between the USA and India around the festive season, check your flight schedule and arrival city early, especially when your plans include attending a specific community event. Tripbeam offers India to US flight booking for travellers planning their next trips.
FAQs
Q1) When is Dussehra 2026 in the USA?
A) Dussehra 2026 will be observed in the USA on October 20, Tuesday. Vijayadashami is another name for Dussehra, a Hindu festival associated with the triumph of good over evil.
Q2) Where can I see Ravan Dahan in the USA during Dussehra 2026?
A) You can see Ravan Dahan at community events across the USA, including Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka in Pleasanton, California, on October 17, and the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas celebration in Allen, Texas, on October 20.
Q3) Which cities are hosting Dussehra 2026 events in the USA?
A) In 2026, Dussehra celebrations are scheduled in Pleasanton, Frisco, Allen, and Fords. These include community events such as Dussehra Diwali Dhamaka, TPAD Bathukamma Dasara Sambaralu, the Radha Krishna Temple Dussehra program, and MATA’s Bathukamma and Dasara celebration.
Q4) Are Dussehra events in the USA free?
A) Some Dussehra celebrations are free, while others require advance registration or paid admission. Always check the individual event organizer for current entry rules.
Q5) Is Dussehra on October 20 in the USA in 2026?
A) Not necessarily. Dussehra is on October 20, 2026, but community organizations frequently schedule large celebrations on nearby weekend dates.