MISSISSAUGA LIGHTS UP FOR DIWALI
Mississauga celebrates all the rich cultures of its community, including the beautiful celebration of lights, Diwali. The annual festival celebrates the presence of light and victory over darkness, occurring on the night of a new moon. Although officially celebrated on from October 19-23 this year, visitors and locals can observe and learn about the holiday in a variety of special ways throughout the month.
Here’s a few ways to experience the Festival of Lights in Mississauga.
Diwali Razzmatazz
Canada’s biggest Diwali celebrations, hosted in Mississauga’s Celebration Square on October 4 and 5, brings community together with musical and dance performances by over 1,000 artists & performers of international fame including Bollywood headliners, musicians, singers, dancers and celebrities.
The Diwalicious food court will bring mouth-watering treats and festive flavors from over 30 food vendors.
Diwali Bazaar provides an opportunity to shop all your festive needs from over 50 vendors showcasing clothing, jewelry, gift items, decorations, handicrafts and art affects. Also, free giveaways and exhibits from large business houses will be available to all visitors. Kid activities and street performers will also be available onsite, keeping the festive mood in swing with Fun and Frolic.
Indian Women's Circle Diwali Gala
This year the Indian Women’s Circle will not only be celebrating 7 years of their Diwali gala, but will also be celebrating 10 years as an organization empowering women and creating real impact in the lives of immigrant women. Celebrate Diwali in style at this thrilling women-only event packed with non-stop entertainment, games, giveaways, delicious food and drinks, and tons of dancing! The event takes place on November 22 at Red Rose Convention Centre.
Diwali Market by VBRNT at Square One Shopping Centre
This year from October 16 to 19, Square One, Ontario’s largest shopping mall will be hosting a Diwali market where visitors can shop Diwali food, fashion, and experience the Festival of Lights through dance and unique traditions.
Shop for Diwali Sweets, Decor, and More
- Pick out the perfect outfit at Aksyas Fashion & Giftware, featuring a range of silk sarees and suits. Or, for menswear, head to Bombay Trendz, where you can shop the stunning collection of formal wear.
- Find glittering golden jewellery at Rita’s Jewellery, a boutique offering a wide range of options perfect for special occasions.
- Treat your family and friends to some delicious treats, like Ras Gulla, Laddoo and much more from Premium Sweets. Here, you can customize your selection or opt for a specially curated Diwali sweet box.
- Capture and carry the light home with a beautifully hand-painted or bejewelled Diwali candle from Henna by Pramilla.
Enjoy Delicious and Authentic Indian Cuisine
Mississauga is a culturally rich community, which is reflected in its array of restaurants offering up mouth-watering bites that will transport you around the world.
The city boasts a number of delicious Indian restaurant options for your taste buds to celebrate the Festival of Lights, including TWO recently mentioned in the Michelin Guide.
- Guru Lukshmi (2024 Michelin Bib Gourmand) is serving up authentic South Indian home cooked vegetarian cuisine such as their signature Mysore Bhaji Dosa. Reservations are recommended for this popular spot offering a modern setting to enjoy a delicious meal
- Tamarind Modern Indian Bistro (2024 Michelin Guide) serves up colourful dishes in a beautiful setting not far from Square One and other top downtown Mississauga attractions. The menu features familiar dishes and curious creations such as Chettinad chicken tacos and panipuri shots. Weekends can get a bit rowdy with live music and dancing, so be sure to book your table in advance!
- Befikre takes a modernist approach to Indian cuisine, showcasing innovative bites by complementing the flavours and traditions of India with global ingredients and techniques. Modern dining merges with contemporary flavour, making this one of the best Indian restaurants in Mississauga.
- Desi Bar and Grill is the vision of the Batra brothers, hailing from Delhi, who have poured their love for everything Dilli into this casual eatery boasting a creative and delicious menu, excellent customer service, and great vibes. Check out one of two Mississauga locations during your visit!