Diwali is a beautiful light festival associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, that marks the beginning of the calendar year in India. Today I will be telling you a little about this festival and where you and your large family can go to see Diwali in Colorado. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss!  

What is Diwali? 

Diwali, or Deepavali, is a light festival that lasts five days in late October or early November. It is one of the most popular festivals of the Hinduism faith. Diwali symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.  

In the lead-up to Deepavali, celebrants prepare by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes and workplaces with Diyas (oil lamps) and Rangolis (colorful art circle patterns). During Diwali, people wear their finest clothes and perform worship ceremonies for Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and wealth. Most people light fireworks and partake in family feasts where mithai (sweets) and gifts are shared! This festival dates all the way back to the 7th century, where there is documented proof of King Harsha referring to Deepavali. King Harsha documented that lamps were lit and newly engaged brides and grooms received gifts.  

The true meaning of Diwali is the celebration of life, making a fresh start, and new beginnings. For many, Diwali marks the start of their new year, enabling them to make plans for a new start – a little like New Year’s resolutions. This is one of the largest and most famous holidays celebrated in India!  

Food You’ll See During Diwali 

Food is super popular at the Diwali festival. To start off on a refreshing note, you will have to try Almond Milk Thandai. It is made with almond milk, spices, a hint of Kesar and a little bit of nuts. The flavor of Kesar can make your Diwali lunch start on a festive note. 

When celebrating Diwali, the main course is never the prime focus. You will have a ton of snacks as well like soft and creamy pieces of paneer clubbed with capsicum, onions and tomatoes and skewered on a fiery grill to perfection. Even though the main course isn’t the prime focus, it doesn’t take away from the Dal Makhani which never fails to leave a mark.  

Where to Watch Diwali in Colorado 

The Diwali festival in Colorado is taking place on Saturday, October 29th, from 5PM – 8PM at the Anthem Highlands Community Association, only 30 minutes from the Denver International Airport. You should expect a culturally educational experience full of food, music, and dancing. This event is only open to locals currently! If you have the time, make your way over to Anthem Highlands and enjoy everything Diwali has to offer, you will not regret being part of this experience! 

 

How to Get to Diwali if You’re Visiting Colorado

An airport van rental is easily the best way to get your family to and from the Diwali festivities in Colorado. Large, 15-person passenger vans make it easy to keep everyone together with plenty of cargo space for their luggage. Not sure where to look for a passenger van rental? Check out MileMarker Van Rentals today.

 

About the Author

Jamie S.

Jamie is a member of the Sales & Marketing department. You will be able to find her outdoors spending time with her horses and enjoying hikes with her fur babies. A fun fact about Jamie is that she can make the best Chicken Bacon Ranch pasta in the Rockies!