Diwali, a celebration of light over darkness and good over evil, will be celebrated at the Baierl Family YMCA in Franklin Park from 5 to 7 p.m. Nov. 10.
This free event is hosted by state Rep. Arvind Venkat, D-McCandless. Registration is required at pahouse.com/venkat.
Diwali is celebrated in the fall annually by more than 1 billion people of Hindu, Jain, Sikh and Buddhist backgrounds, Venkat said.
Those planning to attend the celebration are asked to bring a food item to be donated for the North Hills Community Outreach food pantry.
“Diwali is a time of great festivity and also an opportunity to exchange gifts and give to those in need,” Venkat said.
This is the second Festival of Lights hosted by Venkat, following last year’s at his office in McCandless. Because of a large response, he is partnering with the Baierl Family Center YMCA and holding the event at the more spacious venue.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the history and meaning of the Festival of Lights. The celebration will feature cultural dance demonstrations and traditional music.
Adults can receive a henna tattoo, with additional designs just for children. Food samplings will be provided by Sankalp the Taste of India, located in Cranberry.
Diwali is a five-day celebration that occurs after the summer harvest during the Hindu month of Kartik. The height of the celebration is on the third night, which this year was Oct. 31, according to Venkat.
Gov. Josh Shapiro recently signed into law bipartisan legislation from Sen. Greg Rothman, Sen. Nikil Saval and Venkat to recognize Diwali as a state holiday, according to Venkat.
“Though the legislation does not require the closing of state government offices, schools or businesses, it does recognize the cultural importance of Diwali in our state and the over 200,000 Pennsylvanians of South Asian background who celebrate Diwali,” Venkat said.
The Baierl Family YMCA is located at 2565 Nicholson Road in Franklin Park.
“Celebrating Diwali with everyone is a meaningful way for us to come together and honor this wonderful tradition,” said Kathy Nipps, YMCA executive director.
Nipps said they are excited to see the Indian population grow in the North Hills and within their local YMCA.
“It’s been inspiring to see Bollywood dance classes become part of our fitness offerings, bringing even more cultural richness to our programs and our community,” she said.
