HoliFest 2024, an annual celebration of Holi and rite of spring, will be presented by India Cultural Center (ICC) on Saturday, May 4 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm in Roger Sherman Baldwin Park in Greenwich.
The event is expected to draw nearly 1,500 people of all ages for a day of music, dancing, fun activities and of course, an epic color throw. Redfin Premier, a local high-end real estate brokerage, returns as the event’s Signature Sponsor.
HoliFest is a community-wide event that achieves ICC’s mission of inclusion to mainstream India into the community.
“Participating in events like HoliFest not only allows families to be their authentic selves but also allows families to learn from one another and share experiences. That’s what inclusion and belonging are all about,” said Lakeya Newton, King School Staff Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Coordinator in a release.
Holi, widely known as the “Festival of Colors,” is a joyful, annual celebration signifying the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil.
Attendees wear white and celebrate by playing with color, also called a color throw.
“ICC looks forward to inviting the community to become a part of this vibrant South Asian tradition and experience the amazing world of Indian culture,” said Margie French, ICC Executive Director. “There is fun to be had by all ages!”
Mandeep Johar takes part in HoliFest. Photo: Mima Fiorino
A child has their face painted as a Bengal tiger. Photo: Mima Fiorino
For HoliFest 2024, henna artists are back by popular demand. New activities have been planned for children and teens, including the Kid Zone presented by YMCA Greenwich and a Teen Tent presented by Carnegie Prep.
Attendees will enjoy performances by Shivaay Dance Academy which will also engage the crowd in Bollywood dance steps. Dhabewala Food Shack of Greenwich will once again serve traditional Punjabi Food and food trucks, Pizza Vitale will provide pizza, while Kona Ice will offer shaved ice, a popular Indian treat.
ICC HoliFest Friends enjoy the cultural celebration which will be held Saturday, May 4 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park in Greenwich. Photo: Mima Fiorino
Rounding out the event will be the centerpiece of HoliFest 2024: the color throw. Participants will receive several bags of color to throw and take part in a joyful and energetic celebration. The color is safe and non-toxic and made from high-quality cornstarch and food-grade colors. Following the Holi tradition of wearing white, those who register by April 19 are guaranteed a white t-shirt for the color throw.
Groups of 12 can purchase tables in the Community Tent which gives families and friends a place to meet and the conveniences of a picnic table and bypassing registration. Private tents for groups of 40 guests are also available. There are a limited number of reserved tables and group tents available, and orders must be placed by midnight April 19.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at a discount at Holi2024.org or in-person at the event. HoliFest 2024 will be held rain or shine.
India Cultural Center is a non-profit organization that celebrates the arts and culture of India. Its mission is to foster inclusion by educating and engaging the community in Indian culture. Programs are targeted towards both the Indian American diaspora and the community at large. https://www.iccgreenwich.org/
Support has been provided to India Cultural Center from CT Humanities (CTH), with funding provided by the Connecticut State Department of Economic and Community Development/Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) from the Connecticut State Legislature, and from the Connecticut Office of the Arts, which also receives funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.