Family and blessings
Dashain brings generations together. Families visit elders, share meals, receive tika and jamara, and exchange blessings for health and prosperity.
Nepal’s biggest celebrations
What are Dashain and Tihar?
Dashain and Tihar are two of Nepal’s most cherished annual festivals—seasons of reunion, blessings, light, music and shared meals. DT Fest brings that spirit to the Nepali community and its neighbors in Northern Virginia.
The traditions
Two festivals.
One shared spirit.
Dashain
Nepal’s longest major festival celebrates the victory of good over evil and the power of Goddess Durga. It is especially known as a time for family reunions, feasts, new clothes, kite flying, swings, and receiving tika and blessings from elders.
Tihar
The five-day festival of lights honors bonds between people, animals and the divine. Celebrations include Kaag Tihar, Kukur Tihar, Laxmi Puja, Mha Puja and Bhai Tika, with homes decorated in lamps, flowers and colorful patterns.
Cultural references: the official Nepal Tourism Board guide to Dashain and guide to Tihar.
Light and gratitude
Tihar is Nepal’s festival of lights. Homes glow with diyas, rangoli and garlands while each day honors relationships, animals, prosperity and community.
Culture carried forward
For Nepali families in the DMV, celebrating together helps children experience the music, food, language and traditions that connect generations.
Celebrate in the DMV
Experience Nepal in Ashburn, Virginia.
DT Fest 2026 takes place Sunday, October 11 at One Loudoun, with Nepali food, live music, dance, art, vendors and activities for the whole family.