Diwali, often called the “festival of lights,” is one of India’s biggest holidays, celebrated by millions across various faiths, including Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Muslims and Buddhists. Unlike Holi, known for its vibrant colors, Diwali is characterized by the lighting of oil lamps (diyas) and decorating homes with strings of lights to symbolize the victory of light over darkness.
The festival lasts five days and features a range of traditions. The main day of Diwali in 2024 will be on Friday, November 1. Here’s a brief overview of the celebration:
- Day 1: Dhanteras – People honor Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, by buying new items and lighting lamps.
- Day 2: Chhoti Diwali – This day celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura, often marked by twinkling lights.
- Day 3: Diwali – The most important day, families gather to feast, exchange sweets, and light lamps to welcome prosperity from Lakshmi.
- Day 4: Govardhan Puja – In some regions, people create small piles of cow dung to symbolize Lord Krishna’s triumph over the king of the gods.
- Day 5: Bhai Dooj – This day honors the bond between brothers and sisters, featuring a special ceremony and prayers for each other.
Diwali represents different meanings across cultures. For Hindus, it often relates to the legend of King Rama, who rescued his wife Sita from evil. For Jains, it marks the spiritual awakening of Mahavira, and for Sikhs, it commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment.
During Diwali, families enjoy festive meals filled with sweets like kaju katli and jalebi, making it a time of joy and celebration for all.
The nighttime celebration at Fair Park will include a laser light show and fireworks display, performances by local and Bollywood entertainers, a bazaar with food and other items for sale, carnival rides for children, and a performance of the Ramlila, which depicts stories from the life of Rama, a major deity in Hinduism. This year’s festival marks the event’s return to the Cotton Bowl after a three-year break during the pandemic. The last one, held in November 2019, drew about 15,000 people to Fair Park.
Nov. 4 from 5 p.m. to midnight at Fair Park’s Cotton Bowl Stadium, 3750 Cotton Bowl Plaza, Dallas. $12-$100. Free for children 5 and under. Parking is $10.
DIWALI MELA: DALLAS FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
The fest will include a fireworks show, carnival rides, performances of dance and music, a fashion show, a marketplace, arts and crafts, and a food court.
Nov. 5 from noon to 10 p.m. at Southfork Ranch, 3700 Hogge Road, Parker. $10 at eventbrite.com, $12-$15 at the event. Free for children 10 and under. $25 for a pass for unlimited carnival rides.
DIWALI IN THE PARK – FREE
Celebrate the festival of lights at Klyde Warren Park with Indian music and dance performances, traditional crafts, chai, festive photo ops and more.
