Diwali 2026 falls on Sunday 8 November. The five-day festival begins with Dhanteras on Friday 6 November and ends with Bhai Dooj on Tuesday 10 November. If you're sending Diwali gifts anywhere in South Africa, order by Thursday 29 October so they arrive before the celebrations begin.
Sending a Diwali gift this year? Our tea gift boxes start at R480, arrive beautifully boxed with space for a handwritten note, and reach anywhere in South Africa in 2 to 5 working days.
Below are the 2026 dates day by day, a simple gifting timeline, and gift ideas for the people you'll see over the festival, from the aunty hosting the family lunch to the colleague you want to thank.
When is Diwali 2026?
Diwali follows the lunar calendar, so the date moves every year. In 2026 the five days fall like this:
- Friday 6 November: Dhanteras
- Saturday 7 November: Choti Diwali (Naraka Chaturdashi)
- Sunday 8 November: Diwali and Lakshmi Puja
- Monday 9 November: Govardhan Puja
- Tuesday 10 November: Bhai Dooj
Families and temples can differ slightly on timings, so confirm puja times with your local temple or panchang closer to the day.
Is Diwali a public holiday in South Africa?
No. Diwali isn't a public holiday in South Africa, so most families celebrate around the normal work and school week. In 2026 the main day falls on a Sunday, which makes it easier for families across Gauteng, Durban and the rest of the country to come together.
When should you order Diwali gifts in South Africa?
Order by Thursday 29 October. We deliver anywhere in South Africa with The Courier Guy in 2 to 5 working days, so ordering by then gives your gift time to arrive before Dhanteras on 6 November. Delivery is free on orders over R850; otherwise it's a flat R125. If you're buying for a whole team or client list, order earlier still.
What makes a good Diwali gift?
The best Diwali gifts are made to be shared. Over the festival, homes fill with visitors, the kettle rarely goes cold and a tray of sweets does the rounds. A gift that joins that rhythm, rather than sitting in a cupboard, is the one people remember. Tea fits naturally: it's poured for every guest, it suits every generation at the table, and it's alcohol-free, which matters in many Diwali households.
Diwali gift ideas for the people on your list
- For parents and grandparents: The Heritage Collection (R1,260) brings all four signature blends together with two Avoca glass teacups, a gilded leaf strainer and a golden infuser.
- For the family hosting lunch: The Taster's Tale (R1,080), all four blends and a glass infuser, made for pouring around a full table.
- For a sibling or cousin: The Golden Hour (R530), one blend of their choice with an Avoca teacup, a gilded leaf strainer and a golden infuser.
- For neighbours and friends: The First Pour (R480), a blend of their choice, an Avoca glass teacup and a golden infuser.
- When you're not sure: the Chai Society gift card lets them choose.
Every box arrives in our original art gift box, ready to give with no wrapping required, and you can add a handwritten note so it can go straight to the person you're gifting.
Which tea suits a Diwali table?
For chai lovers, Sona Sunshine is a malty Assam black tea from India, blended locally with tropical fruit and blossoms. Eastern Earl pairs Ceylon black tea with bergamot and vanilla. For guests who'd rather skip caffeine in the evening, Ruby Sundara is a naturally caffeine-free rooibos from the Cederberg, and Parna is a delicate jasmine green tea from Fujian.
Frequently asked questions
What date is Diwali in 2026?
Sunday 8 November 2026. The five-day festival runs from Dhanteras on Friday 6 November to Bhai Dooj on Tuesday 10 November.
Is Diwali a public holiday in South Africa?
No. Diwali isn't one of South Africa's public holidays, so most families celebrate around their normal work and school week.
When is Dhanteras in 2026?
Friday 6 November 2026, the first day of the five-day Diwali festival.
How late can I order Diwali gifts for delivery in South Africa?
Order by Thursday 29 October for delivery before Dhanteras. Delivery takes 2 to 5 working days anywhere in South Africa.
Do you deliver Diwali gifts to Durban and Johannesburg?
Yes. We deliver anywhere in South Africa, including Durban, Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town, with free delivery on orders over R850.