As the vibrant festival of lights – Diwali – was celebrated by millions worldwide yesterday, the Cumberland City Council is excited to announce their own celebration, inviting everyone to join them for a night of light, culture, and joy. The Diwali Festival will take place on Saturday, 9 November, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Station Street, Wentworthville.
Diwali, one of the most widely celebrated festivals among people of Indian origin, marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The festival is a time for families and communities to come together, share joy, and celebrate new beginnings. For many in Cumberland, Diwali is an occasion of great cultural and religious significance, and this festival will provide a unique opportunity for everyone in the community to participate in the celebrations.
A Celebration of Cumberland’s Cultural Diversity
The Indian subcontinent, which is home to a rich and diverse range of cultures, traditions, and religions, has a significant presence in Cumberland. Around 15 percent of the Cumberland population originates from the Indian subcontinent, contributing to the area’s vibrant cultural fabric. In particular, Hinduism is the third-largest religion in Cumberland, making Diwali one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals within the local community.
The Diwali Festival at Wentworthville promises to be a true celebration of this cultural diversity, with activities and performances that reflect the traditions of the Indian subcontinent. From traditional dances and music to delicious food stalls and cultural displays, the event will offer something for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy.
Cumberland Mayor Ola Hamed expressed her excitement about the event and the importance of celebrating the region’s cultural diversity. “As we come together for the Diwali Festival, we invite the entire Cumberland community to join in the spirit of unity, joy, and celebration that Diwali represents. It is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to embrace and celebrate the cultural richness that makes Cumberland such a special place,” Mayor Hamed said.
What to Expect at the Diwali Festival
The Diwali Festival in Wentworthville will be an evening filled with exciting activities, entertainment, and cultural experiences. Here are some of the highlights to look forward to:
- Traditional Performances: Enjoy live cultural performances, including classical Indian dances like Bharatanatyam, energetic Bollywood dances, and folk music, showcasing the diverse artistic heritage of the Indian subcontinent.
- Food and Treats: A variety of food stalls will offer delicious Indian street food, including samosas, pakoras, chats, and traditional sweets like laddus, gulab jamuns, and barfis.
- Rangoli and Craft Displays: Experience the vibrant art of Rangoli, colorful patterns and designs created on the ground using colored powders and flowers. These designs hold cultural significance and are a key part of Diwali celebrations.
- Lighting of Diyas: Take part in the Diya Lighting Ceremony, where attendees will light small oil lamps (diyas) symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. This is a powerful and symbolic moment during Diwali festivities.
- Fireworks Display: The evening will end with a dazzling fireworks show, filling the sky with bursts of color, reflecting the spirit of joy, prosperity, and celebration.
Mayor Hamed’s Message of Unity
In her message about the festival, Mayor Ola Hamed emphasized the importance of cultural celebrations in fostering a sense of community. “Diwali is not just a celebration for those of Indian heritage; it is a celebration for all of us. The Cumberland community is a beautiful mosaic of cultures, and events like this allow us to come together and appreciate the richness of each other’s traditions,” she said.
Mayor Hamed also highlighted the values of Diwali – compassion, love, and togetherness – which resonate deeply within the Cumberland community. “I am proud to see our community unite in joy and harmony, embracing the values that Diwali represents. This festival is an opportunity for us to reflect on the importance of kindness and generosity towards one another.”
A Free and Family-Friendly Event
The Diwali Festival is a free event and is open to all members of the Cumberland community. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, the festival promises to be a welcoming and inclusive experience. It is a family-friendly event, with plenty of activities for children, food stalls for all tastes, and a lively atmosphere that encourages everyone to celebrate together.
With 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM set as the event timing on Saturday, 9 November, attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy all the festival has to offer. The event will be held along Station Street in Wentworthville, and ample parking and public transport options are available.
A Time for Unity and Celebration
The Diwali Festival is not just an opportunity to celebrate a religious occasion but also a chance to honor the cultural diversity and unity that make Cumberland a great place to live. This is a time for all residents to come together, share in the joy of the season, and celebrate the positive values that Diwali represents. As the lights of the diyas shine brightly across Wentworthville on the evening of 9 November, Cumberland will truly reflect the spirit of Diwali – light, hope, and togetherness.
For more information on the festival, including the schedule of events and parking details, visit the Cumberland City Council website or follow the council on social media.
Let’s come together to make this Diwali Festival one to remember!
