Diwali has always held special memories for me. Growing up in London, we would spend the days leading up making food, eating food, and sharing food with family and friends. We would spend various days celebrating with extended family, getting together with aunts and uncles and cousins of all ages. There was (more!) food, games, fireworks, and a true feeling of family.
The few weeks leading up to Diwali would also be filled with evenings celebrating during Navaratri – joining in on the music and dancing across several Garba events with family and friends. It was one of my favorite times of the year, and now, as I live far away from the family that created these traditions, I find myself cherishing them even more; striving to create the same feeling of love, family, tradition, culture, and an abundance of Indian food, with my family and friends here in OC.
To do this, I’m always on the hunt for family-friendly events celebrating the holiday. Here’s what I have in, and around, OC for 2024. If you know of any more please comment below!
5 Diwali Celebrations Happening in Orange County this year:
#1 – Ektaa Diwali Fest
Saturday, October 26 | 1 – 9PM
Great Park, Irvine
Free
Ektaa Diwali Fest exemplifies Indian culture through food, access to ethnic products and services, community interaction, and artistic and cultural performances. This annual event brings the community together to celebrate the joyous spirit of this festival.
My family and I have been to this event for the past few years, and it’s just a great combination of culture, tradition, current events, music and, of course, food!
#2 – Diwali Mela
Friday, October 25 | 6 – 9PM
Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
$250 per adult, $125 per child (3 – 9 years), children under 2 complimentary
Set amidst illuminated string lights and colorful décor, this evening will host live stations featuring the best of his modern and traditional regional cuisine, including contemporary takes on street food favorites from Pani Puri shots to a striking display of mithai, an assortment of colorful Indian sweets. The event continues through the night with Bollywood music and dancing.
#3 – COLAIAPA Diwali Celebration
Saturday, November 16 | 5:30 – 10PM
Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
$65 per adult, $35 per child (5 – 15 years), children under 5 complimentary
County of Los Angeles Indian American Professionals Association (COLAIAPA) hosts its annual grand Diwali celebration, featuring Indian Bollywood and classical performances, DJ, dance, drinks, and delicious food.
#4 – Navratri: Radiant Rhythms
Friday, September 13 and Saturday, September 14 | 7PM – Midnight
Irvine Haveli
$10 per person (advance), $20 per person (at the door), children under 5 complimentary
Shrinathji Haveli – Vaishnav Samaj of Southern California, hosts this two-day event with music, dance, and snacks for purchase.
#5 – DIYA Raas Garba
Saturday, October 26 | 8PM – Midnight
University High School, Irvine
$25 per person, children under 5 complimentary
Desi Indian Youth Association (DIYA) hosts this electrifying Raas Garba event with an evening filled with rhythmic beats, vibrant colors, and the energetic spirit of traditional Indian dance.
Whatever you decide to do, and however you choose to celebrate, wishing you all a Happy Diwali and Prosperous New Year!