Diwali, one of India’s most prominent festivals, celebrates the triumph of light over darkness. Also called the festival of lights, it is celebrated October 27 this year.
Several events are planned for those who always celebrate and those who are new to the festival.
11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, October 19
Children’s Museum of Atlanta: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Gather around the stage for an interactive puppet show about the five days of Diwali. Kids also can learn traditions, as well as Bollywood and traditional dance. CMA’s Diwali festivities continue off-stage in the learning studios and at the Science Bar, where children can decorate Diwali candle holders, make their own lanterns, or explore the colors and wonders of light with prisms.
460 Rockbridge Road NW, Lilburn, GA 30047
Kids' Diwali Celebration: 2 p.m. onward Saturday, October 19
At the children’s event, the traditional celebration is combined with explanations and hands-on learning to engage a younger audience. Kids participate in events ranging from games to making small oil lamps that symbolize the triumph of light over darkness. This event is for children up to age 14. There is a $20 fee.
Diwali – the Festival of Lights | Chopda Pujan & Fireworks
Diwali Chopda Pujan: 3 pm
Diwali Maha Arti & Fireworks: 7:30 pm
On Sunday, October 27, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandi invites everyone to celebrate the festival of lights. "Open to one and all, the celebration is an opportunity to enjoy the spectacular fireworks, traditions, and rich culture of the Hindu faith," its website states. Offsite parking will be at 6100 Lawrenceville Highway, Tucker GA 30084, with a free shuttle to the mandir.
Grand Annakut Darshan
noon to 8 p.m. Monday, October 28
The day after Diwali is the Hindu New Year, traditionally celebrated with Annakut — meaning a mountain of food.
Offsite parking will again be available at the Lawrenceville Highway location.
1:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday, October 20
Sharon Forks Library: 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming, GA 30041
All ages and cultures are welcome at this event hosted by the Fulton County Public Library and FCPL Friends and Advocates. There will be crafts, Indian food to sample and dance performances.
Dance performance schedule:
2 p.m.: Atlanta Nritya Academy
2:35 p.m.: Darshini Natyalaya School of Dance
3:10 p.m.: NG’s Dance
3:45 p.m.: Jalpa Dance Academy
4:05 p.m.: Akansha’s Dance Studio
1:30-4:30: Crafts, food and more throughout the library
3-8 p.m. Saturday, October 26
Infinite Energy: 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097
Perhaps the largest Diwali event is presented by the Consulate General of India in co-operation with the Indian American Associations. In addition to Indian food and vendors, you can watch multicultural dance performances. There will also be fireworks. Entry is free.
7-11 p.m. Saturday, October 26
Ashiana Banquet Hall & Fine Indian Cuisine: 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd. 101, Norcross, GA 30071
Hosted by the Punjabi Society, this festival of lights celebration promises “fun, food and frolic” while celebrating traditions. Tickets are $10 for those under 12, $25 for all others.
