November 12th will mark the start of Diwali – an auspicious festival for billions of people. Well, here’s how Canadians celebrate Diwali. Diwali is a primary Hindu festival celebrated to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, the significance of new beginnings, & the meaning of honoring one’s ancestors.
Also known as the ‘festival of lights’, Diwali is a five-day festival with meanings associated with numerous auspicious events in Hinduism. Different sects, like Hinduism, Buddhism, & Jainism, further celebrate the festival. In addition, for many people, Diwali marks the beginning of the New Year as per the Hindu Lunar Calendar.
Keeping with this widespread significance, Diwali is a significant festival in Canada. So, read on to know how Canadians celebrate Diwali.
How Is Diwali Celebrated In Canada?
Everything associated with Diwali festivities can be found in Canada – shimmering oil lamps, colorful floor arrangements, making delicious food, meeting friends & family, singing, dancing, & so much more.
Generally, Diwali celebrations in Canada are organized by community organizations, i.e., a cultural group, temple group, etc. In addition, there are also bigger community events which are hosted & often take place at town centers. These traditions include singing, dancing, having traditional food, visiting marketplaces, etc.
In addition, if you are looking for Diwali celebrations open to the public, it is suggested to do a quick web search for events in your vicinity.
Below are the biggest Diwali events in Canada’s biggest Indian communities.
Diwali Celebrations In Toronto & Greater Toronto Area
- Diwali Festival Of Lights
Organized by the Global Arts, Culture, & Heritage Foundation, the Diwali Festival of Lights is an annual event which claims to be the biggest Diwali celebration in North America.
Held on the 4th & 5th of November at Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto, this festival will feature numerous Diwali fixtures, like fireworks, music, dark performances, & a marketplace with around 100 local vendors. The event is free to attend & will take place between 12–9 p.m. on both days.
- Diwali Dhamaka 2023
Hosted by Dream Media Agency & Cocktail International Group Inc., Diwali Dhamaka 2023 will take place at the Capitol Banquet Center in Mississauga on 5th & 11th November, between 12–9 p.m.
The event is free to attend & boasts entertainment for the entire family, like face painting, dancing, music, Diwali markets, etc. This event will also feature pizza for attendees, including awards for the best dressed, raffle opportunities, etc.
- North York Diwali Fest – Festival Of Lights
North York Diwali Fest is an event organized by the Moksha Canada Foundation & held at Mel Lastman Square between 11–9 p.m. on November 11th.
The event will feature food, music performances, Diwali shopping fairs, etc. Moreover, the fest also features arts & crafts workshops, allowing attendees to make their own decorations. The event will also feature a rangoli competition & is free to attend.
Diwali Celebrations In Vancouver
Diwali Celebrations in & around Vancouver are plenty, with the city having one of the biggest Indian populations in Canada. However, one of the common celebrations in the city is the Diwali Fest.
Diwali Fest is an annual festival hosted by the Diwali Celebration Society, consisting of multiple events across Surrey & Vancouver. These events vary in price & what they have to offer. Well, this year will be the 20th anniversary of the festival’s introduction, & as such, this year will adopt a ‘wedding theme’ throughout the celebrations of Diwali. Some of the events include:
- Diwali in Coquitlam
- Diwali Downton Surrey
- Diwali Storytime
Moreover, one Diwali celebration experience unique to British Columbia is the annual Diwali boat celebrations. These gatherings are organized by Vancouver Boat Parties. This year features two events:
- Diwali Boat Festival Vancouver
- Diwali Fusion Bollywood Boat Party Vancouver (it is a 19+ event)
Diwali Celebrations In Montreal
The last in how Canadians celebrate Diwali includes the celebrations taking place in Montreal.
One interesting event is the Candle-making workshop hosted by Pierrefonds Public Library. The event offers a chance at a more profound understanding of the making as well as placement of diyas along with spiritual & cultural significance during Diwali. The event is free to attend & takes place between 4:30-6 p.m. on November 10th.