Diwali in Canada is a vibrant celebration that lights up the autumn season for millions. This festival will be in full swing on October 31, 2024, with celebrations spanning from October 29 to November 3. For the more than 1.3 million people of Indian heritage in Canada, along with many other Canadians, Diwali marks a luminous start to the new year.
Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali—or Deepavali—derives its name from the Sanskrit for “rows of lights.” Celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists, this holiday brings together families and communities in a spectacular display of cultural unity.
For many Canadians with roots in India, Diwali is also a time to strengthen bonds with loved ones back home. One way to do this is with instant money transfers to India that help you contribute to family celebrations or send special Diwali gifts back home.
Let’s explore how you can partake in Diwali celebrations across Canada.
3 major Canadian cities celebrating Diwali
Canadian towns and cities enthusiastically embrace Diwali. Local groups, businesses, schools, and cultural associations organize several events that capture the essence of this ancient Indian tradition.
From fireworks displays and dance performances to food festivals and rangoli competitions, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the Diwali spirit across these three Canadian cities with large Indian populations.
1. Toronto, Ontario
- Diwali Dhamaka 2024 takes place on Saturday, October 26, and Sunday, October 27, from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. Presented by Cocktail International and Dreammedia Agency at the Capitol Banquet Hall in Brampton, this Diwali event is one you won’t want to miss. Diwali Dhamaka features free entry and parking, cultural performances, face painting, food stalls, a magic show, and plenty of activities for kids. Every child who attends will also receive a free Diwali gift.
- Disco Diwali 2024, hosted by the Indian Women Circle, will take place on Saturday, November 16, from 5:30 pm to 11:30 pm at the Mackenzie Ballroom A, Red Rose Convention Centre in Mississauga. This exclusive women-only event blends Diwali tradition with the excitement of a Bollywood disco. Enjoy social networking, captivating performances, fun games, raffles, a vegetarian dinner, a cash bar, and a glam photo booth. Be sure to dress in bold, shiny attire and dance the night away.
- Join the Georgetown Diwali Gala 2024 celebration on Saturday, October 19, from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm at 14015 Danby Rd. Enjoy a festive evening filled with dazzling lights, a full-course dinner, a cash bar, and lively music. Embrace the spirit of Diwali with traditional performances and activities for all ages and connect with the community in a joyful atmosphere.
2. Vancouver, British Columbia
- Diwali Fest in Downtown Vancouver 2024 takes place on Sunday, October 27, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Presented by the Roundhouse Community Center in the heart of Vancouver, this Diwali event is a must-attend celebration of light and culture. Diwali Fest features free entry, lively South Asian music and dance performances, a festive Diwali market, and food trucks offering delicious treats. Don’t miss the signature rangoli and diya painting activities, perfect for all ages. This year’s event uniquely showcases artwork inspired by the vibrant marine life of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
- Celebrate Diwali: A Festival of Light takes place on Saturday, October 19, from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm at the West Vancouver Memorial Library. This free, family-friendly event offers an introduction to India’s largest festival for all ages. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Diwali through storytelling, yoga sessions, dance performances, and creative crafts. Attendees can also sample traditional Diwali treats. Please note that children under 10 must accompany a parent or caregiver.
3. Calgary, Alberta
- Diwali Dhamaaka 2024 takes place in Calgary on Friday, November 8, starting at 7:00 in the Empire Banquet Hall. Presented by SPARQ PRODUCTIONS INC, this annual event celebrates the Festival of Lights and welcomes all Calgarians. Attendees will experience a traditional welcome, followed by East Indian appetizers, dinner, and desserts. The event includes entertainment, door prizes, henna artistry, and a DJ dance party. Starting October 1, tickets for the event cost $90. Children aged 5-10 can attend for $65. Guests are encouraged to wear traditional or formal attire for this celebration of Indian culture and the spirit of Diwali.
- The Indian Society of Calgary (ISC) presents Diwali Fest on November 9, 2024, at the Genesis Centre. This event runs from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm and features a buffet dinner, live music concert, DJ with a dance floor, cultural performances, and a fireworks display. Attendees can enjoy food, music, and dance while experiencing the spirit of Diwali. The event includes appetizers, dinner, door prizes, and entertainment options.
Celebrate Diwali with family and friends outside Canada
Even if your loved ones are far away, technology enables you to bridge the distance during Diwali. Video calls can bring you face-to-face with family to share meals, prayers, or even light diyas together virtually. Sharing photos and videos of your Canadian Diwali celebrations can help everyone feel connected, regardless of distance.
Transfer money from Canada to loved ones this Diwali
While virtual connections are meaningful, many celebrating Diwali in Canada send money as a heartfelt gift to their family back home. Money gifts can help loved ones better participate in the Diwali festivities or enjoy a bit of extra prosperity during the celebration.
Western Union is a trusted partner in this tradition of long-distance gift giving. Our money transfer service offers a seamless way to send funds to your family in India, ensuring that your Diwali gift enhances the holiday.
Western Union provides multiple money transfer options to meet your needs. You can take advantage of the convenience of our mobile app, the ease of our website, or the personal touch of visiting one of our agent locations in Canada. We also make checking the Canadian dollar rate in India easy so you can get the most out of your transfer.
FAQs about Diwali in Canada
How do communities in Canada celebrate Diwali?
Communities across Canada celebrate Diwali with festivals, cultural performances, fireworks displays, and community dinners. Many households light diyas, create rangoli, and host gatherings for family and friends.
Are there any special events for Diwali in Canada?
Yes, many Canadian cities host special Diwali events. These include festivals in Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary, featuring performances, markets, and food fairs. Libraries, community centers, and cultural organizations often organize local celebrations.
Is Diwali recognized as a public holiday in Canada?
Diwali is not a public holiday in Canada. However, it is recognized as an important cultural celebration, and some schools and workplaces may accommodate observances or organize events to mark the occasion.
What traditional customs are associated with Diwali in Canada?
Traditional Diwali customs observed in Canada include lighting diyas, creating colorful rangoli designs, exchanging gifts, wearing new clothes, preparing special foods, and participating in prayers or pujas. Many also decorate their homes with lights and flowers.
