Holi Celebration

The entire community is invited to participate in Oak Park’s celebration of Holi – the Hindu Festival of Colors.

The Village's 2025 Holi Celebration will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 5 on the south lawn at Village Hall, 123 Madison St.

The event will feature music, dancing, food for purchase and color play.

Event schedule

• At the beginning of the event, guests will enjoy traditional Indian dance performances, showcasing the beauty and storytelling of Indian culture through movement.
• Following the performances, dancers will lead an interactive session, inviting attendees to join in and learn traditional dance steps. This portion of the event is designed to foster cultural appreciation and community engagement
• The high-energy color-throwing portion of the celebration will be held toward the end of the event.

Come dressed for fun!

Anyone planning to attend is encouraged to come dressed in clothes that can withstand being covered in colored powder. Participants may want to consider wearing sunglasses to protect their eyes and scarves to protect their hair.

White t-shirts and tops are recommended for anyone who wants to show off their color play and take memorable photos in photo booths that will be available during the event. 

Sensory activities will also be available for kids who would prefer not to participate in the color play.

 

Information about Holi

Holi is a vibrant and joyous Hindu festival that originated in India and Nepal, but is now celebrated by people all around the world.  Also known as the festival of colors, this exuberant festival marks the arrival of spring, new beginnings, and the triumph of good over evil.  

Holi falls on the last full moon day of winter according to the luni-solar calendar – March 25 this year. This is typically in March/early April. This two-day festival begins with a bonfire and a puja/prayer the night before, to cleanse away all the negative energy and usher in the positive.

The next day, or the day of Holi, is when people come together from all walks – irrespective of age, gender and religion – to participate in the color fest.

During the celebration people come together to play and laugh, smearing each other with brightly colored powders. It's a time to let go of inhibitions, dance to lively music, and indulge in delicious food.