Diwali is one of the most important holidays in India. But that doesn’t mean you have to be in Mumbai to celebrate it! Believe it or not, Canada is also a great place to light a candle or two this time of year, since it’s home to plenty of Diwali events that honor light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

Still unsure about it? Then keep reading to find just a few fun ways to celebrate Diwali in Canada!

D3: Diwali, Dinner, and Dance — Calgary

Hosted by the Punjabi Community Health Services of Calgary, the D3: Diwali, Dinner, and Dance event is called a “fun”draiser because ticket sales are used to support the social and mental health services provided by PCHS. As the name suggests, D3 is centered around a dance floor and a live DJ, so it’s a more modern take on a festival of lights. Rather than quiet, candlelit ceremonies, it displays bright laser shows over dancing crowds. You can participate in other activities as well, including raffles, buffets, and silent auctions.

Annual Diwali Fair — Edmonton

The Annual Diwali Fair of Edmonton is a family-friendly event where visitors of all ages can connect with their heritage or learn about Indian culture. Kids will love the juggling shows and face painting booths, teens will appreciate the Insta-worthy artistry of henna demonstrations, while adults can enjoy the chance to take a rangoli class. There’s plenty of food to go around. And vendors come from all across Canada with homemade crafts that include diyas, saris, jewelry, candles, and clothing. If you can’t see it all during the first day of the fair, don’t worry…it’s a multi-day celebration!

Diwali Downtown Surrey — Surrey, British Columbia

Did someone say free? Yep, Diwali Downtown Surrey is open to everyone, and you’ll only need to pay for the kaju katli that you eat and the keepsakes that you buy. Live music will follow you everywhere, and you’ll constantly find your eye caught by artwork, performances, and cultural demonstrations. Particular standouts include the “Rangoli Zone” and the kid-friendly “Family Art Zone.” If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Diwali with your little ones, swing by Surrey and have some wholesome fun with everyone together!

Diwali Festival — Moncton, New Brunswick

Hosted by the Indo-Canada Association, the Moncton Diwali Festival is open to anyone coming to the greater Moncton area during Diwali. Kids and adults alike can enjoy food, drink, and cultural activities in the form of celebrations and performances. If you’re of South Asian descent, this can be your chance to ground yourself in your roots; if you’re just looking for a good time, this is the perfect opportunity to eat well, meet new people, and learn something about one of the oldest holidays in history!

You may also like: 5 Thrilling Places for an Indian Adventure!

Diwali Show — Brampton, Ontario

Billed as the largest Diwali expo of the greater Toronto area, the Diwali Show is a fun-filled extravaganza that celebrates Hindu, Sikh, and Jain culture from all over the world. Here you can find Indian pooja at one stall and Pakistani dresses at the next! You’ll also have your pick of games, events, and activities that include everything from door prize raffles to dance performances. When you get hungry, you can munch on your favorite festive treats. When you want to burn off some energy, just wander the miles of vendors and their colorful booths. Admission to the Diwali Show is free, so you can save your money souvenirs to take home.

Diwali Carnival – Festival of Lights — Halifax

The Diwali Carnival of Halifax is such a lively affair that it just can’t be contained within a single day! It spans three days filled with activities that range from cultural demonstrations to dance parties with Bollywood music. There are food trucks offering the best of Indian cuisine and vendors selling all kinds of crafts, including candles, lamps, and lanterns to help you remember the true purpose of Diwali. To top it all off, fireworks are sent into the night sky for the ultimate blaze. What else do you need to start looking for flights to Nova Scotia?

Did we miss your favorite Diwali celebration in Canada? Let us know about it in the comments below!