On Wednesday, President Barack Obama set the stage for Diwali celebrations this year by becoming the first President to personally attend the occasion at the White House.
But if you’re looking for a way to join in the celebrations yourself, East West has compiled a list of Diwali events from across the country to commemorate the “Festival of Lights."
Diwali, which is observed by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs, celebrates the victory of light over darkness, and good over evil. This year, the five-day celebration begins on October 17. People light diyas, exchange gifts, and prepare festive meals in the hope to increase happiness and prosperity among family and friends.
The following events are just some of the celebrations that are occurring across the nation as a way to celebrate Diwali over the next week.
San Francisco, California: Asha for Education, an organization which provides basic education to underprivileged children in India, is hosting a Diwali Dandiya celebration on October 16 at the Women’s Building. The event features music by Dimple Patel and a dance performance by the Monsoon Dance Company.
Chicago, Illinois: Stop by the third annual Diwali bash on October 16 at the Funky Buddha Lounge, which has been voted the “Best Dance Club in Chicago.” The party features beats by DJ Jimmy Singh and DJ Xception, and offers free Bhangra dance lessons by Shamila, the Chicago Bhangra Queen.
New York, New York: Come to the legendary establishment, Tonic, on October 17 to celebrate the self-described “NYC’s Official Bollywood Party Celebrating the Festival of Lights.” Music will be provided by DJ Shilpa and DJ Intense, with a variety of Hindi, Bhangra, Hindi Pop, and Bollywood Fusion music.
Seattle, Washington: The Network of Indian Professionals Seattle is hosting its Diwali Celebration on October 17 at the Navya Lounge. The semi-formal event includes Bollywood, belly dance, comedy, and Bhangra performances, as well as a full night of dancing to Bollywood tunes.
Austin, Texas: The Barsana Dham Temple, one of the largest Hindu temples in North America, will be hosting its Diwali Celebration on October 17 that revels in the spiritual side of the event. It begins with a dinner prasad, and continues with chanting of Diwali pads in the Temple, and concludes with a grand fireworks display and devotional dancing. It also features a Rangoli contest for the children and a “Snack & Sweets” booth.
Brooklyn, New York: If you’re looking for a way to bring the history of Diwali to the younger generation, stop by the Brooklyn Children’s Museum on October 17 and 18. Kids can make Diwali art to decorate their homes, and will also learn the traditional legends associated with the celebration.
Ontario, Canada: Get ready to rub elbows with some Bollywood celebrities at this Diwali celebration! Bollywood star Rahul Bose, comedian Rasul Somji, and singer Prita Chhabra will be at the Ambrosia Restaurant and Lounge in Ontario on October 17.
Los Angeles, California: The Network of Indian Professionals LA-OC is hosting its Diwali Gala 2009 on October 24 at the Olympic Collection Gala and Conference Center. Along with a three-course traditional Indian dinner, the event also includes a fashion show, stand-up up comedy by Harvin Sethi, and a Bollywood dance medley by Naach Dil Se.
Pelham, New York: The Pelham Art Center will be hosting a free Diwali celebration on October 25, which features Rangoli design, making of diya clay pots, experimenting with Mehndi, and honing your skills with traditional Indian dance.
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