Queer Diwali Ball 2026: Rang Mahal

Queer Diwali Ball Returns to Brooklyn for Its Fourth Year as the Tri-State Area's Only LGBTQIA+-Centered Diwali Celebration Queer Diwali Ball, the only LGBTQIA+-centered Diwali celebration in the Tri-State area, returns for its fourth year on Friday, November 13, 2026. The benefit takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Brooklyn Community Pride Center, 1561 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn. All proceeds benefit Desi Rainbow, which supports LGBTQIA+ South Asians and their families. A Diwali where everyone belongs Every year, LGBTQIA+ South Asians are left without a place to celebrate Diwali as their full selves. Many feel forced to choose between their families, their faith, their culture and who they are. Queer Diwali Ball offers a different answer: a festive, all-ages night where every part of the community is celebrated. Now in its fourth year, the event is bigger than ever. " Diwali is about light overcoming darkness. For LGBTQIA+ South Asians, that light is being seen by our families and communities exactly as we are. Queer Diwali Ball is where that happens," said Aruna Rao, Executive Director, Desi Rainbow. Rang Mahal: the palace of colors This year's theme, Rang Mahal, invites guests to dress in royal, colorful, classic Bollywood glamour that celebrates diversity of gender and sexuality.