Every April, thousands of Sikhs from across the Lower Mainland ascend upon Vancouver to celebrate Vaisakhi Day, a day that marks both the New Year and the anniversary of one of Sikhism’s most important events, the establishment of Khalsa in 1699.
There is also a parade going on in Surrey, but we won’t provide coverage on that because the original parade was in Vancouver and so we’ll focus on that. The Parade is not just for the Sikh Community and is more of a multicultural affair in Vancouver. Last year I walked the Main Street portion and was amazed at the multiculturalism at the event. Further, along the parade route will be an abundance of food (samosas, sweets, pizza, subs etc…). As usual politicians will be there courting the Sikh vote as well.
All in all it will be good times, rain or shine. Expect around a 80,000 to 100,000 people to attend. If you have the time head on over and check it out. Go for the food a lone and soak in the atmosphere of Little India.
When: Saturday, April 11 10:30am – 3pm
Where: The parade begins at the Ross Temple (8000 Ross Street) in South Vancouver. The Parade travels west towards Main Street and heads north on Main up to 49th and then turns east towards Fraser. At Fraser it takes a right down Fraser Street until 57th Avenue, where it turns left and heads back towards Ross Street Temple. This has to be one of the longest parade routes in the city clocking in at nearly 6 km!
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