Festival of Colors
Circa 2016

This was the website for the 2016 Festival of Colors part of the Festival of India, Marina Park, Thunder Bay. The content is from the site's 2016 archived pages.

The 2016 festival was its 7th presentation and was just as fabulous as its preceding ones with its music, dance, drama, a delicious free vegetarian feast, and the simply joyous celebration of thousands of people gathered together for the festivities. I've attended for several years now. My favorite part of the festival is the Colour Throw Event called Holi. With roots in ancient East India, the Color Festival is a joyful reminder to cast away bad feelings and throw worries to the wind. In India, the Festival of Colors (Holi) announces the arrival of spring and the passing of winter.
At the end of the festival I always marvel at what needs to be cleaned up. I guess it's because I work at a company that offers commercial floor cleaning services, and I know that many of the workers are employed to perform night cleaning jobs, as well as pre/post special event cleaning. And I recognize the labor and organization that is required for such as an event as this. Quite frankly, I am glad I am on the celebration side of the festival and not part of the clean up crew.

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India’s vibrant colours, music and food are halfway around the world…but on July 23 and 24th, you can experience India right here at Marina Park from 3 until 8! 

The 7th Annual Festival of India features Festival of colours, FREE vegetarian feast, music, dances, chariot parade, Henna Tattoo and transcendental art exhibit!  Entrance is FREE. Donations are welcome.

 Mark your calendar…Festival of India…July 23 and 24th !

What is Color Festival?
 
With roots in ancient India, Color Festival is a joyful reminder to cast away bad feelings and throw worries to the wind. Join the throngs of people laughing, playing, dancing, eating, and filling the sky with clouds of bright color.  Now we're bringing it on the road so that YOU can experience this transformative celebration of color, music, and culture.With an incredible line-up of live musicians, dancers, yoga instructors, and more, Color Festival is an unforgettable experience that will help you re-center your life on what matters most, and create memories to last a lifetime. 

Colors
The colors used are plant-based, non-toxic, and environmentally-friendly. Made from food-grade cornstarch, you could even eat them (not that we suggest that!).

History
 In India, the Festival of Colors (Holi) announces the arrival of spring and the passing of winter. The festival breathes an atmosphere of joy and love. People embrace each other in a spirit of reconciliation, forgiveness, and gratitude. Every nook and corner presents a colorful sight: young and old alike covered in color, singing, dancing, laughing together.Holi has long traditional links with several legends.

Entertainment
The entertainment at Color Festival creates an atmosphere of joy and color. From contemporary music to traditional dancing, you'll be carried away in the celebration of life, music, and culture. 
 

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Items for sale ( available at the venue ).

 

Om T shirts. & Holi T shirts.

 
Color Powder
 
Custom sun glasses.
 
Om Buff.

Note:

We have assorted colors (violet, green, pink,  yellow, red, chrome, light green, sky blue) in 100 gram bags. Corn starch, permissible cosmetic grade dyes, & fragrance. Will not harm grass. If a large crowd throws the colors on grass, blow the grass with a leaf blower, & turn on the sprinkler system. Least likely to stain hair and clothes if maximum amount is shaken out dry before showering or washing.

Sprinkle or stroke them on with finger tips. Anyone with breathing issues should stay away from the thick of the dust, wear a dust mask, or avoid all together. Even for those without breathing issues eye wear and dust protection is never a bad idea. Wherever children are present, adults should monitor, as the children can get overexcited and throw into each other faces.

 

 

More Background On TBayFest.com

The Festival of India and the Festival of Colours are vibrant annual events held in Thunder Bay, Ontario, celebrating Indian culture through music, dance, cuisine, and communal festivities. Organized by the Vedic Cultural Centre, these festivals have become significant cultural highlights in the region, attracting thousands of attendees each year.

History and Evolution

The Festival of India has been a staple in Thunder Bay's cultural calendar for over a decade. In 2024, it celebrated its 15th anniversary, marking a milestone in its journey of promoting Indian heritage and fostering community spirit. The festival typically takes place in July at Marina Park, offering attendees a picturesque setting by the waterfront.

The Festival of Colours, inspired by the traditional Indian festival of Holi, is often held in conjunction with the Festival of India or as a separate event. This festival emphasizes unity and joy, encouraging participants to throw colored powders, symbolizing the casting away of worries and the celebration of life.

Cultural and Social Significance

These festivals serve as a bridge between cultures, introducing the rich traditions of India to the Thunder Bay community. They provide an immersive experience into Indian arts, music, dance, and culinary delights, fostering appreciation and understanding among diverse audiences. The events also offer a platform for local and international artists to showcase their talents, enriching the cultural tapestry of the region.

Festival Highlights

  • Chariot Parade: A central feature of the Festival of India is the Chariot Parade, where a towering chariot is pulled by attendees, symbolizing universal love and brotherhood. This interactive procession is accompanied by live music and dancing, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere.

  • Performances: The festivals feature a diverse lineup of performances, including traditional Indian dances such as Bharat Natyam and Odissi, as well as live music featuring instruments like the sitar and tabla. These performances are often delivered by artists traveling from various parts of the world, adding authenticity and diversity to the events.

  • Culinary Experiences: Attendees are treated to a free vegetarian feast, offering a taste of traditional Indian cuisine. Food vendors also provide a variety of Indian snacks and sweets, enhancing the cultural experience through culinary exploration.

  • Interactive Activities: The Festival of Colours includes interactive dance sessions, yoga demonstrations, and the iconic color throws, where participants joyfully toss colored powders into the air, creating a vibrant and festive environment.

Community Engagement and Impact

The festivals have garnered significant community support and participation. In 2023, the Festival of India attracted over 2,000 attendees, while the Festival of Colours saw more than 3,000 participants, reflecting the events' growing popularity and impact.

These events not only celebrate Indian culture but also contribute to the social fabric of Thunder Bay by promoting inclusivity, cultural exchange, and community cohesion. They offer residents and visitors an opportunity to engage with diverse cultural practices, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

Media Coverage and Recognition

The festivals have received extensive media coverage, highlighting their cultural significance and the vibrant experiences they offer. Local news outlets have featured stories on the festivals, emphasizing their role in enriching the cultural landscape of Thunder Bay and providing a platform for cultural expression and community engagement.

 

The Festival of India and the Festival of Colours in Thunder Bay are more than just cultural events; they are celebrations of unity, diversity, and community spirit. Through music, dance, food, and interactive activities, these festivals offer a rich and immersive experience into Indian culture, leaving a lasting impact on all who attend.

 

TBayFest.com