Thunder Bay celebrates culture and unity with Festival of India and Festival of Colours at Marina Park, July 19–20.
Indian Festivals Bring Colour, Music, and Unity to Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay’s Marina Park will transform into a hub of celebration and culture this weekend as the Festival of India and Festival of Colours return for their 16th year. Held on July 19 and 20, the two-day event is organized by the Vedic Cultural Centre, drawing residents and visitors into the heart of Indian tradition and community spirit.
Events and Schedule
The weekend kicks off Saturday, July 19 at 3 p.m. with the Festival of India. The highlight is a chariot parade, where participants pull a beautifully decorated chariot through the park to symbolize unity, love, and inclusiveness. The event runs until 8 p.m., offering free vegetarian meals, live music, interactive dance workshops, and a cultural bazaar featuring Indian crafts and spiritual exhibits.
On Sunday, July 20, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Festival of Colours — inspired by the spring celebration of Holi — invites participants to throw vibrant colours into the air. The event includes hourly colour throws, live DJs, children’s crafts, and food trucks, turning the park into a sea of joy and celebration.
Purpose and Vision
According to Dr. Prashant Jani, a festival organizer, the goal is to foster community, inclusivity, and cross-cultural understanding:
“We may come from different countries, cultures, and languages. But when we unite and celebrate, it brings people together and makes our lives enjoyable.”
The festivals emphasize Indian traditions in an accessible and engaging format for Canadians of all backgrounds.
Notable Performances
One of the most anticipated performances is by Janardana Das of The Butter Thieves, a Florida-based music group known for blending hip hop, reggae, and Sanskrit mantras. Das describes the music as “transcendental sound,” aiming to create a bridge between ancient Indian spirituality and modern musical tastes.
“Our music shares a message of positivity and love through rhythm, dance, and introspection,” said Das.
Cultural Significance
Both festivals celebrate India’s rich heritage and aim to shift perceptions about its global role.
“India’s strength lies in its heart — its culture,” Das said. “While the world moves fast, these traditions ground us.”
Sunday’s Festival of Colours in particular encourages emotional release and community bonding.
“When we throw colours into the air, we’re symbolically letting go of our worries and celebrating joy,” Jani added.
Admission, Tickets, and Travel Tips
- Festival of India (Saturday): Free entry
- Festival of Colours (Sunday): Tickets available online at festivalofcolours.ca or at the gate
Parking:
On-site parking at Marina Park is limited. Organizers advise arriving early or using nearby lots and walking to the venue. Volunteers will assist with directions and accessibility.
A Weekend to Remember
With music, spirituality, colour, and food, Thunder Bay’s Indian festivals promise a vibrant weekend of cultural immersion. Whether you’re drawn by the rhythms of sacred mantras, the aroma of Indian cuisine, or the joy of colourful celebration, this event is designed to connect communities and celebrate diversity in one of Canada’s most scenic waterfront parks.
For full schedules, artist lineups, and updates, visit: festivalofcolours.ca
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