Sign up now to ‘light your spirit’ during Diwali Fest at Surrey City Hall

Sign up now to ‘light your spirit’ during Diwali Fest at Surrey City Hall

Published 2:26 pm Tuesday, October 27, 2026

Register now for a chance to “light your spirit” and experience Diwali Fest at Surrey City Hall on Sunday, Nov. 15.

The afternoon event promises “a unique fusion of classical and contemporary sounds, traditional and modern dance, and artistic performances that celebrate the beauty and diversity of South Asian culture at our Mehfil-inspired celebration.”

Event admission is free but requires pre-registration on diwalifest.ca, due to venue capacity limits.

“Gather with family and friends, enjoy an evening of incredible talent and entertainment, and immerse yourself in the joy, connection, and festive spirit of Diwali,” the festival website says. “Shop at our Diwali Market, paint and take home a Diya and immerse yourself in festive fun.”

In addition to Diwali Fest in Surrey, related festivals are held at Marine Gateway in South Vancouver (Oct. 24), Tsawwassen Mills in South Delta (Nov. 1), Evergreen Cultural Centre in Coquitlam (Nov. 5), Roundhouse Community Centre in Yaletown (Nov. 7) and Anvil Centre in New Westminster (Nov. 9).

In 2026, the main day of Diwali (“Lakshmi Puja”) is Sunday, Nov. 8, middle of a five-day celebration.

Celebrated across the world, Diwali is considered “the biggest, brightest and most popular event on the Indian calendar.”

The word diwali means “row of lighted lamps,” with light symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, prosperity over poverty and knowledge over ignorance.

It’s a time for lighting diyas (oil lamps made of clay, terracotta, brass or silver), laying out colourful rangolis (folk art with patterns), setting off fireworks, exchanging gifts of sweets and celebrating with dance, music and storytelling.

Launched in Metro Vancouver in 2004, Diwali Fest has evolved to become one of the largest Diwali-themed events in the region. Volunteers and paid staff aim to showcase “the best and brightest South Asian talent,” exhibit artistic innovation and engage the wider community.

“The celebration and spirit of Diwali is truly universal,” the festival website says. “The message it engenders of promoting inclusiveness motivates us to bring the festival to the Lower Mainland, as well as bringing the Lower Mainland to our festival.”

Visit Diwali Fest’s Youtube channel for a look at past festivals in Surrey and nearby cities.