There are many Indian residents in Chicago. For Indians, especially the Hindus, the most important festival is Diwali. Diwali is the festival of light celebrated to commemorate the victory of good over evil. The festival of Diwali is celebrated sometime during the months of October or November. The Indian Society in Chicago makes full effort to recreate the Diwali Environment for its Indian residents. The Ryan Education Center in Chicago celebrates Diwali with enthusiasm.
Diwali in Chicago
The Ryan Education Center located at Art Institute of Chicago is the main celebration center for the Indian festival of Diwali in Chicago. In fact Diwali celebration is one of the major events of the year at this place. The kids take the Diwali festivities very seriously. The preparations start in mid October. They tear colorful paper, make designs and then stick them to the walls. The best part about the celebration is the beautiful rangolis made on the floor with sparkle and colored sand. Traditional rice powder is also used to make rangoli. All the events are kid centric here which makes it fun for both the kids and the proud parents. Many cultural shows are also organized especially for the festival of Diwali.
The Diwali Family Festival is an interim of the Art Institute’s Giant Group Project. This program has allowed Indian Families in Chicago to get together invite friends and other relatives and happily celebrate their festival of Diwali. They organize activities and events to keep people of all age group occupied. From infants, toddlers, teenagers, married couples and old age people, it keeps everyone entertained. The festival is also open for Non Indians to come and witness the ethnic Indian Culture and the beautiful festival of Diwali. They receive about 600 to 800 people every year during the festival of Diwali.