The Ashburton Domain will be filled with the sounds, sights and aromas of India tomorrow when Ashburton Indian Multicultural Charitable Trust holds Ashburton Diwali & Garba 2023.
Event organiser Silky Thompson said Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, had a 12-year history in Ashburton.
For the first time this year the free event would be outdoors, and incorporate Garba, a dance in acknowledgement of the goddess of wealth.
A special group, assisted by a team from Rolleston dance studio BollyFeet, would demonstrate the dance, done in a circle, then invite everyone to join.
‘‘It’s an easy dance to learn,’’ she said.
She said the day would be an opportunity for Mid Cantabrians to come together, mingle, enjoy the dancing and entertainment, as well as sample Indian food for free.
■Ashburton Diwali & Garba 2023 is on Saturday 2pm to 5pm in Ashburton Domain near the children’s pool. The opening ceremony and Diya lightning is 2.30pm, dance performances from 3pm to 3.45pm, speeches from 3.45pm to 4pm and the Garba dance for one hour at 4pm.
