THUNDER BAY - A popular summer festival that takes your senses on a journey to the other side of the world is set to return, and this year, it is being divided into two separate events in case you miss the first ticket.
The Festival of India will be held at the Marina on Saturday July 15 and once again it promises a tour of India through music, dance, and of course, food.
“There is something for everyone,” said festival organizer, Prashant Jani. “One of the aspects of the event is wonderful dances and music that you don’t see in Northwestern Ontario. We have some wonderful dancers coming from Edmonton and Winnipeg and the previous years we have invited world class musicians and dancers from all over the world.”
The day kicks off at 3 p.m. and Jani said it will start with the largest yoga class in Northwestern Ontario.
“Those who have never experienced yoga or those who are new to yoga can get guidance about yoga and its benefit by the expert teachers,” he said.
Following at 4 p.m. is a chariot parade, where participants will be invited to pull an 18-foot mechanical chariot while accompanied by dancers and musicians.
“There will be wonderful musicians and dancers coming all the way from India and they will perform during the parade,” Jani said. “So people can listen to the music, pull the chariot, dance with the parade, and have lots of fun.”
And of course, there will be no shortage of Indian cuisine, with a special chef from Edmonton is coming to Thunder Bay to cook a vegetarian feast.
“He is going to cook for thousands of people with the help of volunteers,” Jani said. “Everything is free for everyone. If you are still hungry, there will be an Indian bazaar.”
Until last year, the Festival of India was a two day event, with the Festival of Colours or Holi, held on the second day. However, this year the two events will be separate, with the Festival of Colours being held on September 10 at Marina Park.
“We separated these two days so more people can enjoy both the days of the event,” Jani said. “Some people are out of town during July, so they can be part of the event in September. Please join for both events.”
The Festival of India kicks off at 3 p.m. at Marina Park. With more than 8,000 people expected to attend, parking may be limited at the park. For more information, visit the Festival of India website.
