There are numerous busy times of year for the Hare Krishna Temple here in Toronto when activities and events come in abundance and the temple is buzzing with excitement. The end of the year is certainly one of those times and is always a fun time for everyone as Toronto’s Hare Krishnas are known for closing the calendar in style and ushering in the new year on a transcendent note! The following is your guide to spending New Years Eve and New Years Day with Toronto’s Hare Krishna Temple!
New Years Eve – December 31, 2008
- During the course of the day, the Bhajan & Prasadam Festival will be taking place in the temple.
- Come night time, dress yourself in layers, double socks and a warm winter coat as we will all head out for our annual harinama (outdoor ecstatic kirtan and chanting) at Toronto’s biggest New Years Eve Party at City Hall.
- For those who may not be able to brave the weather, kirtan will continue at the temple until midnight.
- The forecast for New Years Eve (as of 10:30am this morning) is calling for cloudy periods with a temperture of -13°C, so dress warmly! Click here for latest weather forecast.
- Using the Map Below: Our route will begin from the temple (A). We will all walk to the Rosedale Subway Station (B) and then take the subway down to Queen Station (C). We will then proceed on foot to Old City Hall (D) where will conduct our harinama (outdoor ecstatic chanting). After midnight, we will then walk towards Yonge-Dundas Square (E) and then take the subway back to the temple from Dundas station (F)!
New Years Day – January 1st, 2009
Some of us might still be up from the night before, but in case you were able to get some sleep, start the new year right by attending the first arati of the year at 4:30am at the temple. - The Bhajan Prasadam Festival will continue for its second day, starting once again at 11:30am.
- The temple will begin to buzz with activity as preparations begin for the evening Prabhupada Festival. The program will be as follows (subject to change):
- 6:00pmto 6:30pm – Arati
6:30pm to 6:40pm – Welcome & Announcements
6:40pm to 7:05pm – Class
7:05pm to 7:15pm – Prabhupada Arati (Guru Puja)
7:15pm to 8:00pm – Drama by HH Bhaktimarga Swami
8:00pm to 8:30pm – Arati
8:30pm – Prasadam
We hope to see everyone for all the festivities. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via our contact form on the right-hand side of our blog. The ISKCON Toronto Blog and the Hare Krishna Temple would like to wish you and your family a safe and happy new year!