Get ready to witness the Toronto skyline shimmer with colorful fireworks this weekend as the third annual Diwali Festival of Lights brightens up Nathan Phillips Square.
Guests can look forward to a vibrant array of live performances, delectable street food, exquisite clothing and jewelry stalls, and a special play zone for kids. The highlight of the event will be a dazzling fireworks display that will light up the sky from the iconic downtown towers and the Nathan Phillips Square podium.
This free two-day extravaganza will kick off at noon on Saturday, running until 10 p.m., and continue on Sunday until 9 p.m. Expect a diverse lineup of performances, showcasing classical dances like Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Garba, and Odissi, as well as engaging Diwali-themed theatrical performances and storytelling.
Themed “Where East meets West,” this year’s festival aims to blend the cultural richness of two worlds into a harmonious celebration.
Ridisha Roy, the public relations representative for the Diwali Festival of Lights, shared, “Diwali, the Festival of Lights, signifies the victory of good over evil. Through our event at Nathan Phillips Square, we want to recreate the cozy atmosphere of home celebrations. With our ‘East Meets West’ theme, we anticipate a stunning fusion of cultures live on stage.”
The event will take place on October 11th and 12th, coinciding with the Thanksgiving weekend, offering a perfect amalgamation of cultural festivities. Notably, it is the only Diwali event featuring Musical Pyrotechnics Fireworks.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, holds great religious significance for Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Translating to “a row of lights or lamps” in Sanskrit, Diwali represents the triumph of light over darkness, each faith infusing the festival with its unique historical and spiritual importance.
Observed on October 20 this year, the five-day Diwali festival is characterized by a riot of colors, dazzling lights, and joyful family gatherings.