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Diwali celebration returns to Mission’s Clarke Theatre

Annual event features food, entertainment and a large marketplace of items
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Festival of Light: Diwali is set for Wednesday, Oct. 11 at the Clarke Theatre. The event runs from 5 to 9 p.m.

Festival of Light: Diwali is set for Wednesday, Oct. 11 at the Clarke Theatre at Heritage Park Centre as part of Mission’s 125 celebrations.

The event, which draws almost 1,000 people every year, runs from 5 to 9 p.m.

If features a free ethnic buffet dinner, two hours of live entertainment and a marketplace where patrons can purchase Indian goods, have their hands painted by a henna artist, learn how to tie a turban or visit an array of community booths.

“The fun, family-friendly festival helps Mission become a more engaging, cohesive and knowledgeable community in cultural diversity,” said Sanjay Gulati, executive director of Mission Community Services Society (MCSS).

Emcees are Satti Grewal and Abbotsford City Coun. Kelly Chahal. Food sponsor/supplier this year is Mission Save-On-Foods.

Some 1,200 samosas will also be available. The event enjoys the support of 20 generous sponsors.

One thousand small lights will adorn the Clarke Theatre entrance gates. Donations of non-perishable food items will be accepted at the event for MCSS Food Centre.

Entertainment features Bollywood Dansations, Abbotsford Arts Academy, Dasmesh Punjabi School, Garba Dancers (Hindu), Hurricane Korean Drummers, Learning Stars Arts Academy and CSC Community Pipe Band.

For more Festival of Light information, call Diwali organizing committee chair Rick Rake at 604-826-3634 or email rick.rake@missioncommunityservices.com.