6 ways to make sure you have an amazing Diwali in Toronto

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Light, is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains around the world every autumn.

Light symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, prosperity over poverty, and knowledge over ignorance. It brings together people of all backgrounds in a celebration of the universal light that exists in everyone.

The festival a time for lighting diyas, laying out colourful rangolis, setting off fireworks, exchanging gifts of sweets, and celebrating with dance, music, and storytelling. Yep, it’s a whole lot of fun and the festivities go on until October 21.

Want to know how you can make this year’s festival of light special? Check out the list below.

Light up your life

Diwali diyas/ Shutterstock

Diwali is the festival of light so be sure to get those candles out. Traditionally, candles are placed in decorated tiny clay pots (known as diyas). Not sure where to find diyas? Aside from traditional South Asian speciality shops, you may also find them in your local grocery store. These clay pots are easy to decorate and look beautiful when painted and lit with a candle inside. Place your diyas around the house and enjoy the warm glow of Diwali.

Treat yourself with sweets

Indian sweets/ Shutterstock

One of the best parts of Diwali celebrations is the food. Sweets are a big part of the festivities. From mithai to gulab jamun, you can’t go wrong with a delicious box of these delectable desserts. The best part is you can pick up these authentic desserts at your local Real Canadian Superstore and No Frills store with the rest of your groceries at low prices.

Get all your last minute Diwali needs

Grocery store/ Shutterstock

Real Canadian Superstore and No Frills are making it easy to find all of your Diwali needs in one place this year. From traditional ingredients and authentic South Asian brands, to diyas, they’ve got you covered to make sure this Diwali is the best one yet. You officially have no excuse to show up empty handed to any celebration!

Try a new recipe

Pakoras/ Shutterstock

If you like to get creative in the kitchen, try a new recipe for Diwali. Whip up a plate of pakoras (fried vegetable fritters) and some gulab jamun for dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. Oh, and impress everyone with your flavourful skills too!

If you’re short on time (or skills in the kitchen!) try picking something up from Brar’s, Nanak, Haldiram and Suraj– all brands that offer authentic South Asian ingredients and products.

Check out events around town

Performers/Diwali Fest

There are plenty of Diwali events happening around town this week that will be fun for the whole family. From Diwali at Leela Indian Food Bar to Brar’s-Diwali Mela, there are so many ways to celebrate in Toronto. Check out this list of events happening around town to make the most of Diwali this year.

Try your hand at henna

(Pikoso.kz/Shutterstock)

Mehndi (also known as henna tattoos) is traditionally applied during weddings. But this form of Indian body art is becoming increasingly more popular and mainstream. Grab a tube of henna paste and try some decorative designs on yourself or some friends. Pro-tip: to make sure your henna lasts and darkens, apply a paste of lemon juice mixed with sugar on your design when it is slightly dry.