Diwali in Canada 2024 : Celebrate Festival of Lights

It is no secret that many Indians dream of settling in Canada since it offers a high quality of life and world-class education in a beautiful setting. It’s not just a country with perks but also a welcoming heart for immigrants. People from all over the world find Canada perfect for long-term settlement because it retains different cultures and traditions with a smile, and the Diwali celebration in Canada is one of the best examples. If you want to celebrate Diwali in Canada, we have compiled a list of how Canada celebrates the festival of Diwali.

What is Diwali?

Ramachandra, the seventh manifestation of Vishnu, is honoured in Diwali. After spending 14 years in exile, fighting evil spirits and Ravana, Lord Rama is said to have returned on this day. We celebrate the victory of good over evil, darkness, and despair. Diwali is a celebration that is observed by people all across the world, not just in Canada and India. Throughout the year, many community groups and organisations celebrate Diwali. The event can be observed at home, in mandirs or neighbourhood temples, in community centres, or even online, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic! 

What Do Canadians Do on Diwali?

Many Canadians refer to Diwali as the ‘Festival of Lights’ and celebrate it. It is a festival of joy celebrated by both Canadians and Indians in Canada. In Canada, it is a joyful holiday that receives a lot of media coverage and public interest. Each year, several associations, businesses, schools, and community organisations celebrate Diwali. Some companies host Diwali feasts for their employees, while some communities have carnivals or get-togethers with fireworks displays.

Diwali: A 5-day Festival 

Diwali is a five-day festival which is celebrated by Hindu families across the world. Each day of this festival has an auspicious significance. So, let’s learn the relevance of these five days, collectively making the perfect time for starting a business.

• Day 1: Dhanteras

Dhanteras is the first of the five days in which people clean their homes, perform pooja, put lights on their balconies or entrances, and go shopping for crockery or kitchen equipment that is supposed to bring luck.

• Day 2: Chhoti Diwali, Kalichaudas

Choti Diwali, or Kalichauds, is the second of the five days people usually visit their friends or family and bring treats as gifts. Some people also mail greeting cards to family members who cannot meet in person. Rangolis will also be used to beautify the flooring in people’s homes.

• Day 3: Diwali, Lakshmi Puja

With visits to the elderly, prayers, fireworks, family feasts, and the day dedicated to Lakshmi worship, the third day of the festival is typically the busiest. In her honour, families will dress up and gather for prayer.

• Day 4: Annakut, Padwa, Govardhan Puja

The fourth day is Annakut, which is dedicated to honouring the union of a husband and wife. This day is also linked to the Gujarati New Year and Lord Krishna. Food grants will be made for Puja celebrations.

• Day 5: Bhaiya Dooj

The fifth and last day is devoted to respecting the sibling bond. In the past, brothers would visit their sisters and bring presents.

Amazing Diwali Celebrations in Canada

Diwali Razzmatazz in Mississauga

Hosted at the esteemed Mississauga Celebration Square since 2014, the Diwali RazzMatazz is a radiant celebration presented by the Indo-Canada Arts Council in Mississauga. This joyous occasion, hosted on October 12 & 13, 2024, attracts an audience of over 50,000 annually. The Indo-Canada Arts Council, in its commitment to cultural exchange and promotion, offers a platform for more than 500 artists and performers to shine. Through collaborations with various institutions and organisations, the Council fosters connections among younger generations to their rich heritage, allowing them to showcase their talents. Moreover, DRZMZ also empowers the youth, granting them the unique opportunity to perform side-by-side with globally acclaimed artists, thus building their confidence and stage presence.

Since this year marks their 10th and Mississauga’s 50th anniversary, the committee is putting their best foot forward to have an unforgettable celebration. 

Diwali Dhamaka in Mississauga

Dream Media Agency, in collaboration with Cocktail International Group Inc., presents Diwali Dhamaka 2024. This event is scheduled at the Capitol Banquet Centre in Mississauga on the 26th and 27th of October, 11 am – 9 pm EDT. Entrance to the event is complimentary. Attendees can look forward to a range of family-friendly activities such as dance performances, live music and Diwali-themed markets. In addition, there will be free gifts for all the kids. 

North York Diwali Fest – Festival of Lights

Scheduled to unfold at Mel Lastman Square, this event promises a rich blend of cultural experiences for its attendees. Visitors can anticipate an array of food stalls offering authentic Indian cuisines, vibrant music performances that capture the essence of Diwali, and shopping fairs tailored for the festive season. A unique aspect of the fest is its arts and crafts workshops, where attendees can indulge their creativity by crafting their Diwali decorations. The best part? Entry to the North York Diwali Fest is free, ensuring everyone can participate in the celebrations. You can join the celebrations on Sat, Oct 19, 2024, at 11:00 AM and Sun, Oct 20, 2024, at 10:00 PM EDT.

Diwali Decor Pop-up -Toronto Downtown 2024

The Diwali Decor Pop-up event, scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 170 Fort York Boulevard in Toronto, offers attendees a chance to experience the vibrant and festive spirit of Diwali. Guests will be surrounded by traditional decor, including rangoli, diyas, candles, and other beautiful decorations, perfect for those looking to enhance their homes for the celebration. Whether for inspiration or simply to enjoy the atmosphere, this event promises to provide a memorable Diwali experience for all participants.

Diwalicious – Taste of Diwali 2024

Set to take place from Friday, October 4 to Sunday, October 6, 2024, at Mel Lastman Square in North York, this exciting food festival offers a celebration of Diwali through the vibrant flavours of Indian cuisine. With free admission, visitors can enjoy a diverse array of traditional and modern dishes, from street food to gourmet specialities. The event also includes cultural performances, live music, and dance, adding to the festive atmosphere. Shoppers can explore artisanal stalls featuring traditional clothing, jewellery, and home decor, while family-friendly activities like games, face painting, and storytelling ensure fun for all ages. This is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of Diwali over an unforgettable weekend. 

Diwali Festival of Lights – Toronto

Join Canada’s most spectacular Diwali celebration on October 26th and 27th, 2024, at Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto. This grand event will feature a stunning musical fireworks show and the largest Diwali marketplace offering traditional Indian crafts, decor, jewellery, clothing, and mouth-watering street food. Attendees can also enjoy live cultural performances of Indian music, dance, and art, all in a joyful and inclusive atmosphere. Whether celebrating with family or experiencing Indian culture for the first time, this event promises an unforgettable Diwali filled with festive spirit and community bonding. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary celebration!

Diwali Celebration 2024 by CBA

The Ontario Bar Association (OBA) and the South Asian Bar Association (SABA) are hosting a Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas celebration on October 30, 2024, at the OBA Conference Centre in Toronto. This event will run from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, offering attendees the chance to share sweet stories and spend time with friends and colleagues. CBA and SABA members can attend for free, while non-members can join for $65 plus applicable taxes. This event promises an evening of cultural celebration in a professional and festive atmosphere.

Diwali 2023, 2024 and 2025

Diwali hits Canada between mid-October and mid-November, thanks to the lunar calendar. It’s all about the Festival of Lights here—lanterns, Hindu rituals, and a lot of sparkle. Think fireworks, oil lamps, and yummy sweets. With a growing buzz, businesses throw dinners, and streets light up. Canadian Hindu ladies? They’re rocking silk dresses, bling, and cool henna designs while digging into festive treats. A general overview of the dates for how Diwali looks like for the coming years is given below.

Year	Date	Day	Holiday
2024	October 31 and 1 November	Thu & Fri	Diwali
2025	October 22	Wed	Diwali
2026	November 8 & 9	Sun & Mon	Diwali

In a Nutshell

Diwali celebrations in Canada are one of the most awaited times of the year, especially for immigrant Hindu families in Canada. Reconnecting with your roots away from your country is the most special emotion that Canada could offer you in the form of an open-hearted Diwali celebration. Although it is not a public holiday in the country, you can still enjoy the festival amidst the bright lights and fairs at the abovementioned venues.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is Diwali celebrated in Canada?

On a cold night in Canada, people celebrate Diwali by wishing their neighbours a warm welcome along with their families and a pack of sweets.

How many Canadians celebrate Diwali?

Diwali is a time when millions of Hindus across the world celebrate Diwali, which includes over 50,000 people in Canada.

Is Diwali a working day in Canada?

Diwali is a Hindu religious festival celebrated by people in Canada, but it is not an official public holiday.

Are crackers bursting on Diwali in Canada allowed?

Yes, residents are allowed to burst short-range fireworks on private properties with a condition of four days a year, which includes Diwali as well. The Canadian government legally allows fireworks that only travel three metres (10 feet) or less.

Who celebrates Diwali the most?

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is primarily celebrated by Hindus. Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists also observe it. The festival marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil and is most prevalent in India and among the Indian diaspora worldwide.

Where is Diwali most famously celebrated?

Diwali is most famously celebrated in India. It's also observed in Nepal, Sri Lanka, and among the Indian diaspora worldwide, especially in regions like the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia.

Where is Diwali celebrated in Vancouver?

In Vancouver, Diwali is celebrated by the local Indian diaspora through community events, cultural programs, and gatherings. Popular venues include temples, community centres, and public spaces. The city often hosts Diwali-themed events and festivals, reflecting its multicultural essence.