As Indians celebrated Diwali across America, reports of disruptive and inconsiderate behavior surfaced from across the country. Accounts ranged from illegal Diwali fireworks damaging a cricket field, to litter left on the streets, to rowdy crowds lighting fireworks late into the night in various states.
On Tuesday, the night after Diwali celebrations, the Morrisville Police Department in Morrisville, N.C., posted on its community page: “Recently, illegal fireworks were set off at Church Street Park, damaging the cricket field and leaving behind a significant amount of litter. The incident jeopardizes community safety and negatively impacts local sports programs and park visitors.”
The post further stated, “While we appreciate the community interest in celebrating holidays, the private use of fireworks is prohibited in Morrisville parks, greenways, and other public property. This ban includes the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnics which are illegal to use without a permit. The rule is enforced due to safety concerns and noise ordinances. Be aware that certain fireworks are illegal to sell or possess in North Carolina. These include firecrackers, ground spinners, bottle rockets, Roman candles, and aerial fireworks.”
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The post quickly drew widespread attention, with many Indians condemning the behavior. One user wrote, “As someone who celebrates this festival, this is so disappointing and irresponsible.” Another added, “Disgusting! Ignoring local laws, disrespecting locals and just lack of basic civic responsibilities is unacceptable. Hope you find them all. This is getting out of hand in every aspect.”
Another video circulating online showed police and fire department crews hosing down a street heavily littered with burnt Diwali crackers as people cheered in the background. According to some residents, the incident occurred in Jersey City, where police were forced to stop the fireworks and clear the street. Various videos show the roadway lined with discarded fireworks. Locals said police intervened and halted the celebrations midway, but residents cooperated and wrapped up the street festivities for the night.
Similar incidents were reported in other parts of the U.S., including Dallas, where some communities said police visited homes to warn residents against lighting firecrackers. Residents reported being told that violations could result in tickets and fines. Others said similar situations occurred in Frisco, Texas, and in communities such as Milrany Ranch in Melissa, Texas.
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It may be noted that just a few weeks ago, a resident in Texas posted about public celebrations of the Indian festival Ganesh Chaturthi, which inconvenienced locals as crowds took the festivities outdoors, blocking a residential street. While the racist comment made by the local was widely condemned, the incident also sparked a broader conversation about whether Indians should be more mindful of civic sense and the cultural and communal differences between celebrations in India and those in America.
Diwali 2025 was among the largest celebrations in the country, with Indian communities in nearly every state hosting large-scale events and stunning decorations. Yet, it is often incidents like these that create discord over how such festivities are conducted in the West.