Diwali celebrated in India VS Diwali celebrated in the US?

yes, the main difference is probably the use of fire-works or crackers. in india, due to these fireworks, it's become more a festival of sound than of light. but that is just part of the festivity. it still remains a festival of lights and decorations & goodwill. indians start a few days ahead by cleaning & traditionally white-washing their house [spring-cleaning of western world is 'autumn cleaning here ;-)]. further, they - decorate their house with lights, diyas, candles, lanterns - make rangoli, etc. on the floor, at the entrance, in front of idols - do Lakshmi pooja [pray] - make, buy & exchange sweetmeats [mithai] & savories & dry fruits - buy new clothes & gifts & exchange gifts - buy new utensils or jewelery or gold - visit friends & family - play cards [some gambling is considered auspicious in northern parts of india] these festivities go on for 5 days - each day has a different significance & mythology. usually the diwali parties are not organized on the main evening since the pooja is done in the evening & is usually a family affair. people may venture out to parties only after the pooja is over. the entire family comes out in their new clothes to watch or burst crackers & pyrotechnics. neighbours, etc. all join in & exchange greetings, wishes, sweets, gifts ..... due to the fireworks, it becomes an outdoor affair too. hope this helps

in india u could fire up fireworks and stuff without a pemit.