Every November, the Eola Road Branch of the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) transforms into a vibrant, almost magical, space when we celebrate the Festival of Lights known as Diwali. This year, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, you are invited to have the experience of these celebratory activities that both mirror and illuminate the delights of this Indian holiday. Our Diwali program is one of the most anticipated events of the year and a favorite for many Library customers and community partners.
With more than 500 visitors in 2022, the Diwali Celebration at Eola Road Branch grows each year! Our community and staff members are fully invested in making this an ongoing success where we can showcase community talents, businesses, and art. There are so many people contributing beautiful things out of love for their culture and community, that we will never run out of amazing items to have as features at this annual event. “My favorite part is having conversations with outside groups while planning programs,” said Library assistant Ratna Avasarala. “I enjoy catering the event to fit our community’s cultural interests.”
Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of India and celebrate common traditions of the Diwali holiday which are colorful and energetic. “I love seeing customers and staff dressed in colorful attire and greeting each other. It also gives parents a chance to show their children a glimpse of the celebration and rehash their fond memories of the festivall,” shared Circulation clerk, Vangur Padmini. “For many, this event provides the opportunity for community connection as a reflection of themselves,” notes Eola Road Branch manager, Krista Danis. “Others, who might not be familiar with Diwali, get the chance to learn about a cultural celebration that is not their own.” All these programs are family-centered and intended for anyone who is seeking community throughout this Diwali season, or who wishes to learn more about the holiday.
We are starting off with traditional Indian music by Classical Bytes at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 in the lobby, followed by a bilingual Hindi/English storytime at 1:30 p.m., and finishing off with a performance by community dance school, Acharya Performing Arts Academy Inc.. The date will be the first time these extremely-talented individuals will perform at the Library, and we are looking forward to showcase their talent. Throughout the day, we are offering free henna tattoos, crafts, and a community display contest. Traditional Indian treats such as chai tea and samosas will be available while supplies last. In addition, the first 200 visitors November 4 will receive a reading light, in commemoration of the Festival of Lights!
The celebration carries on into the following week with more Diwali-themed programs, leading up to the actual Diwali holiday November 12. All-ages Rangoli Competitions will be held at the Eola Road Branch from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 6 and at the Santori Library from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m Wednesday, Nov. 8. Rangoli consists of beautiful floor patterns that are decorated with colored powders, rice, flowers, beans, and more. You can register ahead of time to compete or drop in and vote for your favorites! All materials will be provided, just bring your creativity.
Next, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8, there will be a Diya craft for all ages at the Eola Road Branch, where you are invited to decorate your own traditional clay lantern to brighten your space for the Festival of Lights. Finally, children and teens are invited to dance the night away from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 at the Eola Road Branch Diwali Dance Talent Show! All are invited to cheer them on! Individuals and groups are welcome, but dancers do need to register to reserve a time slot in the show. We can’t wait to see all the creativity you have to share!
Celebrating Diwali with the Aurora Public Library District is a wonderful way to learn about and experience this vibrant festival of light. To learn more about any of the Diwali programs listed above, please visit our Events calendar at www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events, or contact the Library at 630-264-4117. May the festival of Diwali bring you light, joy, and prosperity. Happy Diwali!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.