7 great events celebrating Sikh Heritage Month around Vancouver

April is officially Sikh Heritage Month in B.C., and it will be commemorated with a series of live events around Metro Vancouver.

Sikh Heritage Month is organized by Sikh Heritage BC (SHBC), a collective that celebrates and explores the rich history of Sikhs across the province. Founded in 2018, the registered society brings the Sikh community and neighbouring communities together to help each other prosper, learn, and grow.

The theme of this year’s Sikh Heritage Month is “Anand,” which SHBC explains means a state of peace, joy or divine bliss.

“The rich tapestry of this province is woven with the stories and contributions of British Columbians from all walks of life and all corners of the world,” said Mohnaam Kaur Shergill, director of media and communications at Sikh Heritage BC.

“We hope that British Columbians will take advantage to learn more about their Sikh neighbours, colleagues, and friends, in order that we can all work towards a province where each of us can live in a state of anand.”

According to SHBC education director Jasleen Kaur Sidhu, Sikh Heritage Month is an opportunity for everyone to discover the rich and diverse roles that the community has played in the building of the province.

“Sikhs have been in BC for over 100 years and have contributed to the economic, social, and cultural fabric of the province,” Sidhu previously told Daily Hive. “Sikh Heritage Month is an opportunity for all people, irrespective of race, culture, religion, etc., to come together to learn about one of the more visible minority groups in Canada.

“We all have a shared history. Every community has a unique experience in this province, and we all have something to learn from each other.”

Here are seven great events where you can celebrate Sikh Heritage Month around Vancouver.

Surrey Khalsa Day Vaisakhi Parade 2025

What: The largest Vaisakhi parade in the world will take place in Surrey next month, and organizers expect to draw a massive crowd for the festivities.

Surrey Khalsa Day Vaisakhi Parade, organized by Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar, will take place on Saturday, April 19. Over 500,000 people are expected to attend the parade, with a variety of floats, live music and dancers, and community groups.

When: April 19, 2025
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Starts at the Gurdwara Dasmesh Darbar – 12885 85th Ave., Surrey
Cost: Free

Sikh Heritage Month 2025 Opening Celebration

What: The official kickoff of Sikh Heritage Month in B.C. includes a live performance, a sneak peek of an arts event and lots of delicious food. There will also be an official recognition of SHBC’s five scholarship recipients and a celebration of three Community Changemakers.

When: March 29, 2025
Time: 1 p.m.
Where: Surrey City Hall — 13450 104 Ave., Surrey

Anand: A Soul’s Journey Home

What: SHMBC hosts an evening of art, storytelling and performances that highlight the soul’s journey through life as well as its return to the light. Get ready to enjoy a lineup of local artists, including spoken word, sarangis, tables, dhaadi, and more.

When: April 5, 2025
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: Anvil Centre – 777 Columbia St., New Westminster
Cost: $15, purchase online

Anand: The Art of Balance

What: SHBC’s flagship art exhibition explores the balance found in Sikh life, including the ones between life and death, desire and restraint, and light and darkness.

The free event runs from 2 to 8 p.m., with a special finale session with the artists starting at 6 p.m.

When: April 12, 2025
Time: 2 to 8 p.m.
Where: Jig Space — 8889 Laurel St. unit 106, Vancouver
Cost: Free

Sikhs Speak: Inspiring Talks and Stories

What: Sikhs from all walks of life will share their stories, experiences, and wisdom at a free live event at Surrey City Hall. Discover the concept of anand through the speakers’ personal reflection and storytelling.

When: April 13, 2025
Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
Where: Surrey City Hall — 13450 104 Ave., Surrey
Cost: Free, register online

Anand de Rang – Paint Night with Ravina Toor

What: Express yourself at Anand De Rang: Paint Night with Ravina Toor. No experience is necessary for the evening of art, connection, and self-expression that explores the theme of Anand through art.

When: April 10, 2025
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: Shaheed Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar Memorial Building, Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara — 7050 120 St., Surrey
Cost: $35, register online

Vancouver Vaisakhi Parade

What: One of the largest Sikh parades in the world is returning to Vancouver streets in April, and everyone is invited to participate in the free festivities.

The Khalsa Diwan Society Vaisakhi Parade is happening on Saturday, April 12, with huge floats, community performers, live music, and delicious food.

When: April 12, 2025
Time: TBA
Where: The parade starts at Ross Street Sikh Temple – 8000 Ross St., Vancouver
Cost: Free