By: Katy Wong – Ethnic Seattle
November 5, 2015
Diwali is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated by India in autumn every year. This festival is also widely celebrated in Seattle. This year, various organizations in Seattle will be hosting events and exhibitions in November.
Originated as a harvest festival that marked the last harvest of the year, Diwali is a Festival of Lights where people would seek the blessing from the goddess of wealth. During the festival, Hindus decorate their home with tiny electric lights or small clay oil lamps. They also celebrate the festival with family gatherings, fireworks, and bonfires.
For those who enjoy arts and cultures of Asia, the Seattle Asian Art Museum will be hosting a free “Diwali Light and Lanterns” event on this coming Saturday (Nov. 7) from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Celebrate the Festival of Lights by creating paper lanterns, watching traditional dance performance, and listening to traditional music.
Event: “Free First Saturday: Diwali Lights and Lanterns”
When: Saturday, Nov. 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where: Seattle Asian Art Museum
Address: 1400 E Prospect St, Seattle, Washington, 98112
Admission: Free to open to the public, RSVP requested. Get your free tickets online.
Another don’t miss will be the “Deepavali/ Diwali celebrations” on Tuesday (Nov. 10). Presented by Hindu Temple and Cultural Center, there will be a Samoohika Sri Lakshmi Poojas at 7:00 p.m., followed by a colorful fireworks display at 8:15 p.m.
Event: “Deepavali/ Diwali celebrations”
When: Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. (Check website for complete schedule)
Where: Hindu Temple and Cultural Center
Address: 3818, 212th Street SE, Bothell, WA, 98021
Admission: Free to public
The fun doesn’t stop here. Celebrate the Festival of Lights with India Association of Western Washington on Saturday (Nov. 14) at Kane Hall, University of Washington. Enjoy folk, classical, contemporary Indian music and dances. There will also be vendors who showcase their art, crafts, apparel, and jewelry by local artists. Keep your stomach satisfied by grabbing a delicious dinner and snack boxes.
Event: “Diwali 2015”
When: Saturday, Nov. 14 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Where: Kane Hall, University of Washington
Address: 4069 Spokane Ln, Seattle, WA, 98105
Admission: Members $7 (Online)/$10 (Door); Non-Members $15 (Online)/ $20 (Door); Free for children five years old and under. Dinner ticket $7, Snack ticket $5.
