If you missed Diwali Fest celebrations in Surrey on Oct. 20, never fear: you don’t have to venture too far to find another celebration.
Celebrated across the world, Diwali is the biggest, brightest and most popular event in the Indian calendar, as the Diwali Fest website notes.
The word diwali means “row of lighted lamps," with light symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, prosperity over poverty, and knowledge over ignorance.
"It’s a time for lighting diyas, laying out colorful rangolis, setting off fireworks, exchanging gifts of sweets, and celebrating with dance, music and storytelling," Diwali Fest's site notes.
The traditional five days of celebration is timed to coincide with the new moon, this year falling on Oct. 31.
Here are some free celebrations to check out near you.
Diwali at Surrey Libraries
Surrey Libraries are marking Diwali with celebrations at local branches.
Everyone is invited to join in the all-ages programming, presented in partnership with Options Community Services.
The festivities will include diya painting, rangoli crafts and colouring, henna, face painting, a Diwali photo booth and light refreshments.
Check out the fun at two events:
- Strawberry Hill branch, 7399 122 St.: Saturday, Oct. 26, 1 to 3 p.m. Register by emailing or call Jobanpreet at 236-989-7387.
- Newton branch, 13795 70 Ave.: Wednesday, Oct. 30, 3 to 5 p.m. Register by emailing or call Pooja at 604-992-6161.
There’s also a Diwali celebration set for the meeting room at the Semiahmoo branch, 1815 152 St., on Thursday, Oct. 31 from 2 to 4 p.m., with diya painting and a rangoli colouring sheet. All supplies are included.
The Semiahmoo branch celebration is drop-in, with no registration required, while supplies last. Call 604-592-6907 for information.
See www.surreylibraries.ca for all the details.
Diwali at Langley library
On Saturday, Nov. 2, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., the City of Langley Library is celebrating Diwali (Festival of Lights).
Everyone is invited to enjoy crafts, face painting, Mehndi, Indian music and dance, displays and refreshments.
You can also learn a few basic steps of Punjabi folk dance, Bhangra.
All Diwali activities are drop-in, free and open to the public.
For more information, call 604-514-2850, or visit the Langley Library, located at 20399 Douglas Cres., Langley.
Diwali: Igniting the Beauty Within
The Brahma Kumaris is hosting a free celebration on Sunday, Nov. 3 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Grand Taj Banquet Hall, 8288 128 St., Surrey, with lunch served.
An event invitation notes there will be "music, reflection and sharing as we celebrate the greatness of the human spirit."
The event is free, but contributions are welcome.
See www.vancouver.brahmakumaris.ca or see Brahma Kumaris Vancouver on Facebook for information.
