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13 Things To Do to Celebrate Diwali in Chicago

Diwali celebration. Photo courtesy of Canva
Diwali celebration. Photo courtesy of Canva
10/13/24 - By Maureen Wilkey

In Chicago, there are multiple opportunities to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu holiday celebrating the victory of light over dark, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Sometimes Diwali events are more like a festival or a party, some are based on learning the legends and traditions surrounding the holiday, and some are unique events like cooking classes—but all of them will give kids the chance to experience and appreciate a different culture.

We've rounded up more than a dozen special Diwali events filled with music, dancing, food, and fun that kids in the Chicago area can attend to learn about and celebrate this colorful holiday.

Diwali event. Photo courtesy of the Elmhurst Public Library
Diwali event. Photo courtesy of the Elmhurst Public Library

Chicago Diwali Events for Kids

Chicagoland Diwali

Hoffman Estates
Sunday, October 13
Vchilli Events presents a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness at Bell Works in Hoffman Estates. Enjoy a fashion show, Bollywood dancing, celebrity appearances, traditional foods, and shopping stalls. READ MORE

Diwali in Willowbrook

Willowbrook
Friday, October 18
Uttarakhand Samaj of Greater Chicago hosts a Diwali Festival of Lights celebration at Ashton Place in Willowbrook. The event will include live performances, pahadi music, food, a raffle, and visits from Indian celebrities. READ MORE

Family Diwali Party

Elmhurst - FREE
Saturday, October 19
Celebrate Diwali at Elmhurst Public Library with stories and music. The Meher Dance Company will teach families traditional Indian dance moves. READ MORE

Experience Diwali: A Festival of Lights

Buffalo Grove - FREE
Sunday, October 20
Experience the festival of Diwali at Buffalo Grove's Community Arts Center. The event includes live music and dance performances, dance workshops, crafts, and traditional Indian food and beverages. READ MORE

Celebrate Diwali Festival of Lights in Lisle

Lisle
Friday, October 25
Visit the Science of Spirituality Center for a celebration of Diwali through a vibrant musical play from the center's young adults. This family-friendly event, inspired by the wisdom of saints and mystics, highlights the timeless message of living ethically and practicing meditation. READ MORE

Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Aurora
Saturday, October 26
Enjoy Indian culture, food, music, performances, clothing, jewelry, and more at Metea Valley High School. The event includes vendors, food, and live entertainment. READ MORE

Diwali Celebration Downers Grove

Downers Grove
Saturday, October 26
Uttarakhand Samaj of Greater Chicago invites families to celebrate Diwali at Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove. See a Ramayana play and live dance performances, enjoy an Indian dinner, and dance to the music of a DJ on the open dance floor. READ MORE

Diwali Celebration for All Families at Independence Branch Library

Irving Park
Wednesday, October 30
Join bestselling author, Ajanta, for an exciting and engaging Diwali workshop that combines the vibrant energy of Indian dances with enchanting Indian cultural stories.This unique experience takes attendees on a journey through the five days of Diwali, bringing each day to life. Get ready to dance and have fun! READ MORE

Bubbles Academy Diwali Celebration

Bucktown
Saturday, November 2
Bubbles Academy teachers and guests celebrate Diwali with kids. Award-winning children’s author Ajanta Chakraborty, owner of Bollywood & Culture Groove will present dance and story sessions. Kids can also make crafts, eat snacks, and enjoy open play. READ MORE

Diwali Delights Family Dinner

Portage Park
Saturday, November 2
Celebrate the Hindu festival of Diwali with an Indian cooking class for families. Break into groups to make Aloo Matar Tiki a crispy appetizer made with potatoes and peas; Vegetable Biryani, a famous rice dish made with lots of veggies, and Diwali Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing. Then come together to enjoy the feast. READ MORE

EIAA's 3rd Diwali Party

Elmhurst
Saturday, November 9
Join Elmhurst Indian-American Association for an evening of celebration for Diwali! The event at the River Forest Country Club includes light bites and pizza for children, cash bar, music, dancing, and a short performance. READ MORE

Deepavali: A Celebration of Lights

South Loop
Saturday, November 9
Join Kalapriya, Chicago's southeast Asian arts community organization, for Deepavali at Chicago Women's Park and Garden. The celebration will include food, sparklers and art to commemorate the victory of Light over Darkness, Good over Evil, and Knowledge over Ignorance. READ MORE

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