Although a certain spooky holiday tends to overshadow other October happenings, we certainly cannot forget about Diwali.
The Hindu Festival of Lights returns on October 20th, kicking off a five-day celebration of light over dark and good over evil. It’s meant to symbolize a new beginning and oftentimes Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists embrace the holiday alongside Hindus.
However, anyone in NYC will be able to appreciate the rich, refreshing, and unifying celebration taking place throughout the next several days. Have a look at some of our favorite events happening throughout the five boroughs.
Stop by a celebration
Saturday, October 18th, 12-4pm: Venture to Flushing Town Hall (137-35 Northern Blvd.) for its 11th annual celebration of lights, which includes Indian food, Kathak dance, classical Indian music, art, and other cultural experiences.
Monday, October 20th 3-6pm: The Seaport is hosting a free Diwali celebration with DIY diya lamps, a puppet show, story time, a dance workshop, and performance. Registrations are recommended.
Enjoy a traditional meal and drinks
Saturday, October 18th 1-2pm: Take a quick trip to KEBABISHQin the East Village for a free complimentary Kebab Rice Bowl, highlighting KEBABISHQ’s signature 24-hour marinated kebabs.
Michelin-starred chef Chetan Shetty of Passerine is celebrating Diwali at his Flatiron restaurant all season long. Expect classic dishes and cocktails that celebrate the culture: chicken ghee roast, corn bahjai, gilded flame cocktails, and more.
Sip a cocktail at Tamarind Tribeca (99 Hudson St.): the Tamarind Pani Puri is a debut bev just in time for the holiday. Its base consists of a frozen Mumbai Cosmopolitan (Belvedere vodka, lime juice, orange liqueur, rooh afza), with the remaining three served inside actual pani puri spheres.
Have a sweet tooth? Venture to Kanyakumari (20 E. 17th St) where Salil Mehta and Chef Tejesh Kumar Malli will delight guests with Ram Setu, a dessert inspired by the legendary bridge from the epic Ramayana.
Participate in local events
From story time, crafts, and coloring activities, various New York Public Library branches host Diwali activities for youngsters, ushering them into the cultural celebration at a young age. See what’s taking place at a branch near you.
Tuesday, October 21st, 4-7pm: Celebrate the launch of abacaxi’s first fragrance, Tropic of Sheena, at Tumbao (20 Orchard St).Brooklyn-based, South Asian-American designer Sheena Sood will be on hand with her latest work. As this takes place during Diwali, there will be a moment to honor renewal and new beginnings.