For its first time, the City of 91原创 Library is hosting a Diwali celebration on Friday, Nov. 4.

The annual program was started in 2004 at the Aldergrove library, moving to the Muriel Armason Library in 2008 until 2019 鈥� the celebration moving to an online format for the three years of the pandemic.

This year marks the 20th annual Diwali celebration.

鈥淭he main purpose of the multicultural celebrations such as Diwali, Chinese New Year, Vaisakhi, Cinco de Mayo, National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, [and] Christmas at the library was to create an awareness about different cultures and build a friendly community,鈥� explained Sarwan Singh Randhawa, library manager.

This year, the Punjab folk dance Bhangra will be performed by Folk Star Arts Academy, and guests will have the opportunity to learn some steps of the dance.

鈥淢ulticultural celebrations like Diwali offer local residents an opportunity to learn about other cultures and celebrate together as one community,鈥� Randhawa said.

鈥淚t helps in creating awareness and cultivating respect for all people, regardless of colour, gender, class, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnicity, or religious identity.鈥�

Food including samosas, pakoras, and cookies will be provided.

A henna artist, colouring, crafts, and displays will be at the library for guests to enjoy.

鈥淓veryone is invited. Please join us to celebrate and enjoy the beauty and richness of our Canadian diversity,鈥� Randhawa concluded.

The event is free to the public, and no registration is required.

It starts at 11 a.m. with the Bhangra performances, and wraps up around 1 p.m.

The city library is located at 20399 Douglas Cres.

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