North York Diwali Fest — Oct 10–12, 2025
Location: Mel Lastman Square, 5100 Yonge Street (TTC: North York Centre). Free Entry
| Date | Theme | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Fri, Oct 10 (5–10 PM) | Bollywood Night | Live Bollywood Band SOL, Toronto Jamming Culture, Bollywood Dance Workshop (6 PM) |
| Sat, Oct 11 (12–10 PM) | Family & Culture Day | Family Magic Show (2 PM), Cultural Performances, Free Art & Craft Workshops (1–4 PM) |
| Sun, Oct 12 (12–10 PM) | Community Showcase | Diya Painting Workshop (Rashmi Academy), Cultural Parade, Musical Ramayana finale |
Workshops & Family Activities
Hands-On & Kids Zone
DIY Lantern-Making, Diya Painting, and craft sessions running all weekend. Perfect for families and first-time celebrants.
Dance & Wellness
Zumba and Bollywood dance workshops for teens and adults — join the energy and learn new moves on the square.
Diwali Across the GTA
Explore other community celebrations around the city during Diwali week.
| Event | Location | Dates | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nathan Phillips Square Festival | Downtown Toronto | Oct 11–12 | City’s largest fireworks & stage shows |
| Vaughan City Hall Celebration | Vaughan | Oct 16 | Free civic evening with music & dance |
| Gerrard India Bazaar Diwali Mela | East Toronto | Oct 18 | Street food, DJ, bazaar shopping |
| Toronto Premium Outlets Festival | Halton Hills | Oct 18–19 | Shopping + multicultural performances |
Where to Shop: Gifts, Décor & Sweets
Ritual & Décor
- Guru Pooja & Decor — authentic pooja items, diyas, incense, brass lamps.
- The Gift Marche — eco-friendly and LED diyas; modern décor accents.
Sweets & Treats
- Indilicious Fine Indian Cuisine — barfi, laddus, festive snacks.
- Bawara Indian Restaurant — thalis and celebration platters.
- Indian Sweets Express (online) — delivery of Mysorepak, Jhangri across Canada.
Meaning & Traditions
Across Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist traditions, Diwali marks the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Lighting a diya symbolizes hope, renewal, and community connection.
Plan Your Visit
- Transit: Line 1 (Yonge–University) → North York Centre Station.
- Parking: Gibson Square & 5150 Yonge garages (free after 6 PM).
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly routes and accessible washrooms.
FAQ
When is Diwali 2025 in North York?
The North York Diwali Fest runs October 10–12, 2025, at Mel Lastman Square.
Is the festival free?
Yes. All performances and workshops are free and open to the public.
Where can I buy gifts and sweets?
Try Guru Pooja & Decor (ritual items), The Gift Marche (diyas), and Indilicious or Bawara (sweets and food). Online delivery is available via Indian Sweets Express.
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