On October 15, 2024, Queens celebrated the Festival of Lights with the city’s largest-ever Diwali celebration, drawing tens of thousands of attendees to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. The event featured vibrant cultural performances, food stalls offering Indian cuisine, and a spectacular fireworks display to mark the end of the festival.
“Diwali is about light overcoming darkness, and this celebration brings that spirit to life,” said Rajesh Patel, the event’s lead organizer. Traditional dances such as Bharatanatyam and Bhangra entertained the crowds, while live music performances showcased both classical and contemporary Indian artists.
The festival included a marketplace with over 100 vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and traditional attire. Workshops on rangoli art and diya painting provided interactive experiences for families and children. The evening culminated in a breathtaking fireworks display over the Unisphere, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Attendees praised the festival for promoting cultural understanding and inclusivity, with people of all backgrounds coming together to celebrate. The Diwali event reflected NYC’s rich diversity and its commitment to honoring the traditions of its immigrant communities.
