The Festival of India is returning to Jeanne-Mance Park for its 41st year of celebrating Indian culture.
The festival begins July 6, 2019 at noon with a traditional Indian Chariot parade (Ratha Yatra) down St.Laurent from the corner of Milton St. to Jeanne-Mance Park. The colourful parade includes a 40-foot float pulled by participants followed by singing and dancing, and is a highlight of the festival says organizer Nrsimha Chaitanya. “The parade is pretty spectacular,” he says.
The festivities then continue at Jeanne-Mance Park with activities for kids as well as entertainment and food. On top of typical activities like face-painting and inflatables, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the rich Indian culture. Families can participate in yoga sessions, or attend Indian dance workshops. There will also be painting activities and other games for young children. The festival stage will feature a large lineup of typical Indian entertainment including dance, music, and drama, as well as magicians and other performers.
The festival also offers a free feast, where any participant can have a taste of Indian cuisine with a vegetarian meal. For shoppers, a bazaar will offer a variety of Indian products and souvenirs. The Festival of India is a free event that takes place July 6 and 7 beginning at noon. For more information, visit festivaldelinde.ca
