India’s beloved festival of lights, Diwali, falls on Sunday, Nov. 12 and to celebrate the joyous occasion, we’ve gathered five events honouring Diwali in the Greater Toronto Area.
Every year, Diwali occurs 20 days after the fellow Hindu festival Dussehra, an event that recognizes the victory of good over evil. Similarly, Diwali celebrates the same values: the triumph of light over dark, freedom, and spiritual enlightenment.
That is why on the night of Diwali, millions of people from around the world illuminate their homes and streets with candles and rows of diyas (clay lamps).
If you’re looking for ideas on where to celebrate Diwali this year, here is where you can go:
Diwali Mela in GTA
First up, Etobicoke residents can head to the Mirage Banquet & Convention Centre for its three-day celebration of Diwali starting on Friday, Nov. 10. This family-friendly event includes free entry and free parking. Attendees can expect over 80 vendors from across the city.
For information, click here.
The Levitate Diwali
On Friday, join folks at the Canadian Hindu Cultural Center for a Diwali experience like no other. Organized by Levitate Entertainment, The Levitate Diwali is described as an event that captures “the spiritual essence of Diwali with traditional puja.” In addition to a Diwali Puja, there will also be a Rajdhani Dinner, cultural performances, interactive games, a photo booth and a dance party. Tickets are $25 and kids under eight are free. It takes place at Jai Durga Hindu Society in Scarborough from 6 to 9 p.m.
For tickets, click here.
Diwali Celebration ’23
Toronto’s Junto Studio aims to make you feel like you’re back at home celebrating Diwali. Though they can’t promise it’ll feel exactly like home, organizers say you will feel a sense of nostalgia. The event includes complimentary light snacks, Bollywood music to dance the night away, and a small thank you gift for being part of the big bash. Tickets are $43.93 and it goes from 7 p.m. to midnight. Organizers also encourage attendees to wear traditional attire.
For more information, click here.
North York Diwali Fest
North York is hosting its own festival of lights this weekend from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Mel Lastman Square Rink. The event will include live music, dance, a rangoli competition, performances, delicious food, and much more entertainment. Entry is free and all ages are welcome.
For details, click here.
Diwali Mela
The City of Brampton is inviting you to its first-ever Diwali Mela happening on Nov. 12 at Sesquicentennial Park. This event will feature traditional performances from local and international artists, family-friendly activities, food vendors and a dazzling 15-minute fireworks display. It all gets going at 4 p.m. and runs until 10 p.m.
For more, click here.
