Canton Township will celebrate the triumph of good over evil during the Third Annual Diwali Community Celebration this month. Canton Leisure Services is again partnering with several community groups to present this special event, which is an Indian cultural celebration of lights that symbolizes the “victory of light over darkness.” Sponsors this year include miindia.com, Schoolcraft College, and Piysh Dave Realtor.
Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II will serve as the keynote speaker for this special event, which is open to the public. Program activities planned include Indian cultural performances, music, and dancing, as well as a children's activity and free henna designs. Indian snacks will also be available to purchase, and vendors will be on hand offering various merchandise. The community celebration will culminate with a short fireworks display.
“Canton is delighted to host the Third Annual Diwali Community Celebration as a tribute to the diversity and multicultural fabric of the Canton community,” said Laura Mortier, recreation supervisor. “By presenting this type of event, we hope to foster a deeper understanding and awareness of this 10,000-year-old Indian tradition within our community by providing this excellent opportunity to experience the Indian culture.”
Diwali is perhaps the most well-known Indian festival. The word Diwali means 'rows of lighted lamps' and is known as the festival of lights because houses, shops, and public places are decorated with small earthenware oil lamps called diyas.
There is no admission fee to attend this special event which will take place from 6 until 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27 at the Summit on the Park located at 46000 Parkway in Canton. For more information, visit www.cantonfun.org or call (734) 394-5460.
