Diwali has been celebrated in San Francisco countless times, but this is the first year the city will host an official celebration, as announced by Mayor London Breed.
Held in conjunction with the quarterly Bhangra & Beats Night Market, this downtown Diwali celebration on Friday night will include the chance to watch artists creating rangoli, an ancient Indian art form where floral designs, religious symbols and geometric patterns combine to create an intricate floor design. These are usually made with chalk, colorful powders like those used for Holi, sand or rice.
There will also be giveaways of diya, the small oil-filled clay lamps that are lit to symbolize prosperity in the new year and to drive away darkness and bring light. Participants, who are encouraged to wear Indian attire, can visit booths to learn to tie saris, join in a drum circle and learn more about Diwali traditions. There will be glow-in-the-dark surprises, dancing and an all-Indian lineup of musicians on two stages, including DJ Frenzy, a well-known Bhangra performer, and Non Stop Bhangra, which will bring a Punjabi dance party to the streets. This will include dance and dhol (a double-sided barrel drum) performances, DJ sets and dance lessons so everyone can jump in. In a nice coincidence, this is also Non Stop Bhangra’s 20th anniversary.
You can find gifts at the bazaar with goods from more than 30 local artisans and vendors. Expect to find delicious snacks, cocktails and Indian products, jewelry, clothing and art.
The night market plus Diwali celebration will be held on three blocks between Battery and Clay streets from 5 to 10 pm this Friday, November 15. It’s free, all-ages and open to the public; attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance.