The City of Delta is hosting a stunning DIYAFest celebration to commemorate Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas on Saturday, Nov. 7, at North Delta Recreation Centre.
In its second year, the event returns with a bigger lineup of cultural entertainment and food, with activities for all ages from 3 to 9 p.m.
“The brightest addition includes a full-sized illuminated Ferris Wheel to help take this year’s event to new heights,” said the city in its Oct. 19 news release.
”DIYAfest was a welcome, vibrant addition to the city’s event line-up in 2025,” said Josh Turner, General Manager of Delta Parks, Recreation & Culture. “This year’s version will build on that success, bringing together Deltans of all backgrounds as we celebrate South Asian culture through fantastic entertainment, engaging activities and community connection.”
Live music, dance, and performance highlights feature acclaimed Punjabi folk singer and multi-instrumentalist Vijay Yamla, who will bring the rich sounds of Punjab to the stage, as well as high-energy sets from DJ Andy.
The festival also boasts an artisan market and a stacked lineup of South Asian dance groups, including the Royal Academy of Punjab, SFU Bhangra, SHIAMAK Vancouver Bollywood Dance, Avleen Chhabra, and crowd-pleasing hits from headliners Bollywood Rocks.
Other activities include a live Rangoli demonstration, diya decorating and mehndi/henna art. A free shuttle service from Sungod Recreation Centre will also be available from 3–9 pm.
While Sikhs around the world celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, millions of Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains observe Diwali.
Bandi Chhor Divas is a time of spiritual reflection, marked by prayers and the reading of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, signifies the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness.
In honour of this day, homes, gurdwaras, and temples will light lamps, candles, and diyas.
Copyright 2026, Delta Optimist. All rights reserved.
Radha Agarwal, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Delta Optimist.