Navratri & Dussehra 2026 in the USA — Garba/Dandiya Events City-Wise

For the Indian diaspora in the United States, Navratri means garba and dandiya season — nine nights of music, colour and devotion from 11–20 October 2026, culminating in Dussehra (Vijayadashami) on Tuesday, 20 October. From New Jersey to the Bay Area, community halls and stadiums fill with dancers in chaniya choli and kurta. This NRIGlobe guide is your practical USA city guide to Navratri & Dussehra 2026 — where the garba nights are, what to wear, and the Ravana Dahan events.

For the puja vidhi and the legends behind the festival, see our partner site HinduTone’s Dussehra / Vijayadashami guide. This page is the where-and-when for the USA.

Quick answer: Sharad Navratri is 11–20 October 2026; Dussehra is on 20 October. Most US garba/dandiya events run on the weekends across these nine nights — book popular nights early as they sell out.

Navratri & Dussehra 2026 in the USA — At a Glance

Navratri: 11–20 October 2026 · Dussehra (Vijayadashami): 20 October 2026
Where: Gujarati Samaj groups, temples and cultural associations across major metros
What to wear: chaniya choli (women) and kurta/kediyu (men) — buy early from Indian boutiques or online
Dussehra: Ramlila, Ravana Dahan and Durga immersion events on/around 20 October

Where the Garba & Dandiya Nights Are

New Jersey / New York

Among the largest garba scenes in the country — big ticketed dandiya nights across central NJ (Edison area) and the NY metro, often with live music and food stalls.

San Francisco Bay Area

Major garba events across the South Bay and East Bay organised by Gujarati and cultural associations, drawing large crowds each weekend.

Houston, Dallas & Chicago

Some of the biggest Navratri celebrations in the South and Midwest, with multi-night garba, themed colour nights and family sessions.

Atlanta & Other Hubs

Strong celebrations in Atlanta, Seattle, Phoenix, the DC area, Charlotte and Boston. Check local Gujarati Samaj and temple pages for dates and tickets.

Tip: The biggest garba nights sell tickets in advance and sell out — book early, and check for day-wise colour themes and best-dressed contests.

What to Wear & Where to Buy

Women: chaniya choli with oxidised jewellery; Men: kurta/kediyu with a dupatta
Buy from Indian clothing boutiques in your metro or US online stores — order early for the best selection
Follow the Navratri 9-colours calendar if your event has themed nights
Comfortable footwear and water for long dandiya nights

Dussehra & Ravana Dahan Events

On Vijayadashami (20 October), many US cities host Ramlila and Ravana Dahan — the burning of giant Ravana effigies — alongside Durga immersion programs organised by Indian associations and temples. Check your local community calendar for venues and timings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is Navratri and Dussehra 2026 in the USA?

Sharad Navratri runs 11–20 October 2026; Dussehra is on 20 October. Garba events run on the surrounding weekends.

Where can I attend garba/dandiya in the USA?

At events organised by Gujarati Samaj groups, temples and cultural associations in metros like NJ/NY, the Bay Area, Houston, Dallas, Chicago and Atlanta. Book popular nights early.

What should I wear to garba?

Chaniya choli for women and kurta/kediyu for men; many events have day-wise colour themes.

Where can I find the puja and legends?

See HinduTone’s Dussehra / Vijayadashami guide for the rituals and the Rama–Ravana and Durga–Mahishasura legends.

Final Word

Navratri & Dussehra 2026 is the USA diaspora’s great dance-and-devotion season. Book your garba tickets early, plan your outfit and colours, and find your city’s Ravana Dahan event. Jai Mata Di!