Diwali/Tihar, the Festival of Lights, is a five-day celebration that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It’s a time for prayer, gratitude and new beginnings, marked by lighting diyas, decorating with vibrant colors and spending time with loved ones.

Monika Thapa, the content creator behind House of Thapas, meticulously decorates her home for this celebration. To get her home festival ready, she strings fairy lights on the mantel and flanks the fireplace with elaborate brushed gold candlesticks. She also uses tea light candles on her kitchen island and colorful rangoli at the front door. 

This Diwali, the Thapas hosted Monika’s parents as well as her sister and her family, making it a family celebration to remember. They started the day with a family puja, filling the house with sounds of mantras and the fragrance of incense.

The kids helped with rangoli designs and Diwali crafts, and the open concept dining and family room made for the perfect space to enjoy the festival meal. In the family room, grandparents shared stories of Diwalis from their childhood.  

The open, ranch style concept of the Lauren II floor plan was the perfect gathering space to celebrate Diwali - from preparing traditional snacks in the kitchen, to reminiscing in the family room. 

“Our Drees home provided the space, comfort and thoughtful design that allowed us to celebrate our culture and create lasting memories with the people we love,” Monika said. Want to see more of Monika’s Drees home? Check out @HouseOfThapas on Instagram.

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