North York Diwali Fest- Festival of Lights

Accès

À propos

North York Diwali Fest (NYDF) – Festival of Lights is a vibrant, three-day celebration of community, creativity, and connection, bringing together people of all backgrounds to experience the joy of light, culture, and shared traditions. Held at Mel Lastman Square, this free public event features live performances, engaging workshops, and a dynamic marketplace.

Now in its third year, NYDF continues to grow as a hub for cultural exchange and inclusive celebration, offering a full schedule of programming designed to inspire, engage, and entertain.

Day 1 – Bollywood Night (Friday):

The festival opens with high energy through free Bollywood dance lessons, followed by an open dance floor and a live DJ playing global and Bollywood hits—a festive evening of music and movement under the stars.

Day 2 – Community Engagement & Radiance Showcase (Saturday):

Saturday features interactive Zumba, kids’ art and craft sessions, and a photography workshop with Sony cameras led by professionals. In the evening, the Radiance Showcase highlights women's creativity and confidence through themed segments including fashion, talent, and public speaking.

Day 3 – Cultural Finale & Musical Ramayana (Sunday):

The final day offers a yoga workshop, more kids’ crafts, and a second photography workshop with Canon cameras. The event concludes with a grand musical performance of the Ramayana and a community lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing unity and light.

What to Expect:

• Photography Competition – Capture and submit your best festival moment for a chance to win a prize

• Kids Zone – Free workshops of Diya painting, Lantern and Candleholder making and kids rides

• Food Pavilion – A variety of international cuisines from local chefs and vendors

• Marketplace – Artisan goods, handmade products, and local businesses

• Stage Shows – Diverse performances, music, dance, and audience games

As part of Ontario Culture Days, NYDF proudly delivers free, inclusive programming that reflects Toronto’s vibrant diversity and invites all communities to connect through shared experiences.

Visitor Experience & Venue Information

Visitors can expect a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with enriching experiences from afternoon to evening.

Venue Details:

• Location: Mel Lastman Square, 5100 Yonge Street, Toronto – accessible via TTC subway (North York Centre Station)

• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, inclusive for all ages and abilities

• Parking: Ample paid parking nearby, with limited street parking; public transit encouraged

• Amenities: On-site washrooms, first aid, volunteer booths, shaded seating areas

Whether you’re coming for the music, food, creative activities, or simply to spend time with your community, NYDF offers a warm, enriching, and memorable experience for all.

Liens

• Register on Eventbrite eventbrite.ca

Organisateur

Rashmi Academy of Performing Arts

Rashmi Academy of Performing Arts (RaPA) is a Toronto-based organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the richness of Indian classical and folk dance traditions while fostering cross-cultural exchange and community engagement. Founded by internationally acclaimed Kathak artist Dr. Rashmi Mishra, RaPA serves as a creative hub for artists, students, and communities to explore the power of dance as both artistic expression and cultural storytelling.

Our vision is to build an inclusive platform where the performing arts become a tool for empowerment, connection, and education. RaPA offers year-round training in Kathak, folk dances, Bollywood, and creative movement workshops for all ages and backgrounds. Beyond technical training, we encourage our students to engage with storytelling, history, and social themes through their performances.

Throughout the year, RaPA presents stage productions, workshops, school programs, and community performances across Canada and beyond. We also collaborate with local cultural groups, schools, and senior centers to bring accessible arts programming to diverse communities.

RaPA is the driving force behind the North York Diwali Fest (NYDF) and contributes to community well-being through free cultural events, dance education, and mentorship programs. Through these efforts, we aim to make performing arts a bridge between generations, cultures, and communities—keeping heritage alive while embracing new expressions.

Partenaires

Youth For Change youthforchange.ca