Festival of India set for Saturday

THUNDER BAY – The Festival of India set for Saturday in Thunder Bay is hopeful for success despite restrictions due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

Like last year, the festival will be primarily drive-in attendance, but will allow for the use of lawn chairs as long as social distancing protocols are met such as allowing for six feet distance between cars.

This year the festival has decided to postpone the Festival of Colours portion of the event until later in the year when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted even further and people are able to attend the event fully in-person.

“Last year we did it as a drive in format, not so much fun” said Dr. Prashant Jani, head organizer for the Festival of India.

The festival, in its 12th year, will feature three groups of classical East Indian dance artists who will demonstrate Bharatanatyan, Kathak, Kalbwelia Odissi and some Bollywood-style dancing, as well as hold interactive dance workshops to get those in attendance into the spirit of the celebration.

With over 1,000 attendees last year, Jani and his team of organizers are hoping for an even greater turnout this year.

“There’s food, music, dances, fun for everybody!” said Jani.

Attendance to the festival is free, but those that wish to attend are required to register online to ensure adequate food and gifts for everyone.

The parade will start at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 17 at 1600 Dease St., move down to Balmoral, then to the Harbor Expressway, and end at the festival being held on the CLE grounds at 3 p.m.