What is Diwali?
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is the most major Hindu celebration symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. In the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana, Diwali is the day of return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya with his rescued wife Sita after defeating the evil demon-king Ravana. For thousands of years, Hindus in India illuminate their homes with lamps, candles, and fireworks. Diwali is also a time for family gatherings, sharing sweets, and worshipping Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. The festival spans five days and promotes themes of prosperity, joy, and renewal.
What is HOUSTON DIWALI Fest?
HOUSTON DIWALI – or Festival of Lights – is a state of mind – evoking prayers, festivities, and the buzz of the marketplace. HOUSTON DIWALI is an outdoor street FESTIVAL brimming with Fashion / Jewelry / Décor Stalls and Vegetarian Indian Street Food Vendors. Apsaras (Heavenly Nymphs) greet guests with Tilak as they peruse through Rangoli (Indian Art) Mehendi (Henna Tattoos), Face Painting, Photo Booths, Parade of Rikshaws, and Maha Arti (candlelit mass prayers). Massive stage entertainment features a cultural explosion of Bollywood, Folk and Semi-Classical Dances, Comedy by the Crazy Masala Crew, and Live Concert by VIDYA VOX with a soul illuminating fireworks finale! Houstonians get ready for the festival of festivals – DIWALI! Halo Re Halo!
When is Houston Diwali?
Saturday Oct 19 2024, 5-10 PM. Raindate is Sunday October 20, 2024 4-9 PM.
Where is Houston Diwali?
Houston Diwali will be held at the Levy Park (3801 Eastside St, Houston, TX 77098) which is roughly near Upper Kirby and 59.
Who can attend Houston Diwali?
EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Entry is absolutely FREE!! This is a Family Friendly event with special activities for Adults, Teens, and Kids. Everyone is welcome to bring their friends and families. Usually the attendance is 60% Indo-Americans and 40% Mainstream Houstonians. Entry is free, and there is plenty of free street parking, or $5 garage parking.
What is the featured attraction?
This is a FESTIVAL, so there is a variety of featured attractions taking place at the same time throughout the event. The Concert Headliner is VIDYA VOX, an Indo American pop crossover artist popular in mainstream USA and India. Many guests will sit spellbound by the range of Bollywood, Folk, and Semiclassical dance performances. Glittering Bazaar booths will feature traditional Indian fashions, Indo-western fusion fashions, amazing Jewelry, and Diwali themed Home Decor. Other attractions include DJ Party Booths, Sponsor Giveaways, Kids Rides, and so much more! Levy Park features a large Kids Play Area with state of the art playground. There will also be a Sparkler Safe Zone to light free Diwali Sparklers.
What is the entrance charge or parking fee?
It’s a FREE EVENT. Parking tickets are $5 at the garage opposite to the Park. There is limited Free Street Parking, first come first serve.
Is there a dress code?
Guests are encourage to wear Indian Ethnic Fashions to enjoy the festive mood. As this is an outdoor event dress appropriately for the weather.
Who is organizing Houston Diwali?
This Festival is a huge community effort, spear-headed by Sandhya Thakkar of Masala Radio 98.7 FM and the Masala Radio Office / Radio Jockey / Event Management Teams along with the financial support of many sponsors. Our title sponsors for this year are Majestic Developers, Pervez Jasani and Ramji Law Group. Vidya Vox Concert present by AD Wealth Preservation Strategies and Fireworks by Top Dog Fireworks.
Will there be entertainment for kids?
Yes, every year we have kids Activities & Rides FREE for kids of all ages.
Will there be security at the event?
Yes, Traffic Control and General Security is provided by Upper Kirby District Management HPD and there is private security throughout the event. This is a family friendly, non-alcohol event; however, exercise common sense – do not leave your young children unattended and do not leave valuables in your car. Park only in designated areas and do not park on nearby private or residential properties or your car may be towed.
What if it rains?
By Friday, is it is projected to rain on SAT OCT 19th, the Festival will be held on SUN OCT 20 2024.
Can I bring my own food to this event?
It is highly recommend that you sample the Indian Street Food & beverages by local Indian Restaurants serving delicious vegetarian food at reasonable prices: Madhuram Mirch Masala, Jay Bhavani, Desi Delights, Desi District. Hearsay Restaurant in Levy Park will also feature their full menu plus a special Vegetarian Diwali Platter for takeout at the festival or sit down in their beautiful all glass, high ceiling, chandelier enhanced restaurant!
What type of food is sold at the event?
Vegetarian Indian Street Foods freshly made on site include Samosa Chat, Pav Bhaji, Vada Pav, Chole Bature, Paneer Tikka Masala, Pani Puri, Bhel Puri, Dosas, Idlis, Cookies, Brownies, Masala Sodas, Ice Cream, Kulfi’s, Faloodas, Fresh Sugar Cane Juice and so much more! If you plan it correctly you can eat a different regional cuisine or dessert every hour!
Is alcohol permitted at the event?
No. Houston Diwali is family friendly event and a Hindu celebration – Alcohol is not permitted. alcohol cannot be brought in, consumed, or sold at Diwali. With so much music, joy & color, we assure you will not miss alcohol.
May I bring a camera to take pictures?
Yes! For personal use only, you can shoot to your heart’s delight and post to #houstondiwali2024! You’re welcome to post your pictures/videos to our Facebook and Instagram page at www.facebook.com/HoustonDiwali (Like our page and then tag your pictures. We will post our professional photos & videos to our Facebook Page within few days after the event. Professional use of photos or videos for this event require written permission from admin@masalaradio.com. All rights reserved.
How would I sponsor this event or have a booth?
We welcome sponsors and vendors to promote their businesses and sell merchandise. Browse the Sponsor Media Kit or contact our Sales Manager Rinku at rinku@masalaradio.com. Office Hours are MON-FRI 10AM-5PM CST.
Where should I keep my valuables?
We strongly suggest not to bring valuables at the event. Do not wear gold earrings, loose jewelry or expensive purses.