Vijay Dashmi

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​When Celebrated
Vijay Dashmi or Dussehra is celebrated on tenth day of Hindu month of Ashwin.

Why Celebrated - Significance

1. This day marks the triumph of Shree Rama over Demon king Ravana, who abducted Sita, wife of Shree Rama and took to his kingdom of Lanka. After a long battle Shree Rama alongwith his brother Laxman and with the help of Hanuman and Sugreev, rescued Sita. Shree Rama made Vibhishan, the brother of Ravana, king of Lanka.
2. It is also believed that the Pandavas after long exile took their weapons (hidden in the Shami tree) to fight the Kauravas.
3. In Eastern India, People celebrate the victory of Goddess Durga over buffalo king Mahishasura. The five day long extravaganza starts on 6th day of Navratri and ends on Vijaya Dashmi. They offer Sindoor, sweets, betel leaves and prasad to the idol of Durga , and later distribute sweets amongst themselves.

​How & Where Celebrated
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1. Dussehra is celebrated on pan India basis. In northern and many parts of India, effigies of Ravana with ten heads, his brother Kumbhakarana and son Meghnad stuffed with fire crackers are burnt. A spectacular display of fireworks is done while crowds dance to the chanting of ‘Ramchandra Ki Jai’.
2. In Eastern India & Maharashtra, it marks end of Durga Puja. The statues of Durga and other deities are carried to river or ocean and immersed in them. 
3. In several states of South India, this festival is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, learning, music & arts. Instruments & tools such as pens, pencils, knives, automobiles, are worshipped on the day to mark fight against injustice, ignorance and evil. Leaves of the shami tree are distributed as symbols of God and goodwill.

References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami
4. Dussehra is celebrated on pan India basis. In northern and many parts of India, effigies of Ravana with ten heads, his brother Kumbhakarana and son Meghnad stuffed with fire crackers are burnt. A spectacular display of fireworks is done while crowds dance to the chanting of ‘Ramchandra Ki Jai’.
5. In Eastern India & Maharashtra, it marks end of Durga Puja. The statues of Durga and other deities are carried to river or ocean and immersed in them. 
6. In several states of South India, this festival is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, learning, music & arts. Instruments & tools such as pens, pencils, knives, automobiles, are worshipped on the day to mark fight against injustice, ignorance and evil. Leaves of the shami tree are distributed as symbols of God and goodwill.

References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami