In honour of the festival of lights, the GTA is gearing up for a Diwali celebration of epic proportions.
The City of Brampton will host the second annual Diwali Mela on November 1, 2024, including what possibly may be the largest fireworks show in all of Ontario.
Complete with live performances, dancing, food, and so much more, the free family-friendly festival takes place at Sesquicentennial Park on November 1 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The celebration promises an exciting lineup of performances by both local and international artists, including Gurpreet Maan, G. Sidhu, Chani Nattan, and Inderpal Moga.
Audiences will also enjoy vibrant dance performances from the Nachdi Jawani Bhangra Team, Taaj Entertainment, and DJ Prince.
The event culminates in Brampton’s largest-ever fireworks display, which kicks off at 7:30 p.m.
Symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, Diwali traditionally is held across five days. Typically, observers will illuminate their homes with diyas (lamps) and decorate their floors with rangolis (intricate artwork made from coloured rice, sand or flower petals) to welcome good luck and prosperity.
Due to limited on-site parking, attendees are encouraged to use the free Brampton Transit Shuttles, which will begin operating at 3:30 p.m. from four locations: Mount Pleasant GO Station, Sheridan College, Gore Meadows Community Centre, and Save Max Sports Centre. Shuttles will run every 30 minutes.
The city also reminds Brampton residents that personal fireworks are prohibited under the fireworks by-law passed in 2022, including on Diwali. The city-organized fireworks show is the only place they are permitted.
When: November 1, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Sesquicentennial Park, 11333 Bramalea Rd, Brampton