selwyn diwali promises to be a cultural extravaganz for the whole family

The season of Indian festivals is in full swing, and Selwyn district is gearing up for a dazzling celebration of Diwali - The Festival of Lights. Hosted by Canterbury Indian Women Group and Bhartiya Samaj Canterbury, Selwyn Diwali 2023 is a family-friendly event that promises to be a colourful and diverse cultural extravaganza.

Scheduled for Saturday, November 11th, from 4pm to 9pm, at Lincoln Domain in Lincoln, Selwyn Diwali invites everyone to join in the festivities. The grand finale, a dazzling fireworks display at 9pm, is set to be a fitting finale for the celebration.

Selwyn Diwali is designed to celebrate the cultural diversity of the community through various art forms, including arts, crafts, interactive cultural activities, music, and performing arts. The live performances will feature traditional, folk, and Bollywood dances and music, taking attendees on a journey to the heart of India.

Archna Tandon and Surinder Tandon, the event organizers, are inviting all. “Embrace the spirit of Diwali and Join us for a vibrant celebration of Diwali - The Festival of Lights, at Lincoln Domain (outdoors)! Immerse yourself in the culturally rich experience of heritage of India with a day filled with enchanting performances, engaging activities and delicious ethnic cuisines,” says Archna.

The festival, which became an annual fixture in Selwyn in 2015, has a wide range of cultural activities, including saree draping, henna, clay lamp decoration, a Rangoli art competition, block printing, card making, face painting, clay lamp making, hair braiding, and more. These activities are an opportunity for people of all ages to experience and understand the cultural significance of each art form.

In addition to cultural activities, there will be a diverse array of trade stalls featuring fashion, jewellery, beauty products, home décor, and essential home and business services. Also, the food stalls will be a highlight, offering a variety of Indian cuisines, including street food, curries, desserts, and sweets.

So mark your calendars for Saturday, November 11th, and head to Lincoln Domain for a vibrant celebration of Diwali - The Festival of Lights. You won't be disappointed!

Tips for making the most of Selwyn Diwali 2023:

• Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy all that the festival has to offer.
• Bring cash, as some of the vendors may not accept cards.
• Take your time and soak up the atmosphere.
• Selwyn Diwali is a unique and special event, so make sure to savour every moment.

Here are some of the cultural activities that you can experience at Selwyn Diwali 2023:

• Saree draping: Learn how to drape a saree, the traditional Indian garment for women.
• Henna decorating: Get your hands decorated with intricate henna designs.
• Clay lamp decoration: Decorate your own clay lamp (diya) to celebrate the festival of lights.
• Rangoli art competition: Participate in a Rangoli art competition, where you can create your own colourful and intricate designs.
• Block printing: Learn how to block print, a traditional Indian printing method.
• Card making: Make your own Diwali cards to send to your loved ones.
• Face painting: Get your face painted.
• Clay lamp making: Learn how to make your own clay lamp (diya).
• Hair braiding: Get your hair braided in traditional styles and share the art of hair braiding.
• And don't forget to sample the delicious Indian cuisine at the food stalls!

Date: 11 November 2023
From 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Lincoln Domain Meijer Drive, Halswell, Lincoln 7608

See you there. For further information, please email: selwyndiwali@gmail.com