The past four decades have witnessed the Festival of India blossom into one of Toronto’s most dazzling, head-turning summer events. And last year the chariots and festivities rolled into the city for the 40th time. This year again be sure to mark your calendars and come visit the 41st Annual Festival of India (also known as Ratha-Yatra) from July 13th – 14th, 2013 for an unforgettable experience.
PARADE:
Toronto’s 41st Annual Festival of India will launch with a spectacular parade on July 13th at 11:00am that will cruise down Yonge Street, beginning at Yonge & Bloor, and make its way down to the lake. During the parade, three ornate, 40-foot tall floats will be hand-pulled by participants amidst ecstatic singing, drumming, and dancing creating a wondrous, carnival-like atmosphere.
Parade participants and spectators are encouraged to join in the excitement by singing and chanting along to the world-famous Hare Krishna mantra:
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare;
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare
For 40 years, this annual parade has brought the splendour and tradition of India’s spiritual roots to Yonge Street, generating a vibe like no other summer event in the Greater Toronto Area.
Parade Information:
Time: Saturday July 13th 2013 – 11:00 am to 2:00pm
Location: Starts at North of Yonge & Bloor – in front of the Toronto Reference Library.
And continues south on Yonge St making all the way to Lakeshore Blvd
Centre Island:
After the parade on Yonge, Festival of India celebrations will continue for the remainder of the
weekend at Centre Island. Stay tuned for more information! Festival attendees will be treated to a sumptuous and FREE vegetarian feast along with a host of other family-friendly activities, including:
- a massive, outdoor tented pavilion
- acclaimed music, dance, & drama performances – Arts & Culture
- a bustling South Asian Bazaar
- intriguing exhibits and seminars on ancient spiritual culture and heritage – Seminars
- traditional face-painting
- an outdoor yoga festival – Yoga Meltdown
- a fun-filled and educational children’s area including yoga for children
The festival is open to and free for the all. With its diverse assortment of celebrations and activities, the 41st Annual Festival of India at Centre Island is sure to offer something for everyone! Visit www.festivalofindia.ca for more information!