San Francisco, CA – Mayor London N. Breed has announced the inaugural official Diwali celebration for the City and County of San Francisco, scheduled for Friday, November 15, from 5 PM to 10 PM. This free event is designed for all ages and will take place during the Bhangra & Beats Night Market, with City Hall showcasing vibrant pink and yellow lights in honor of the Festival of Lights.
Organized by the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD), Into The Streets, and Non Stop Bhangra, the event will transform three blocks between Battery and Clay streets into a lively cultural hub, complete with live music, local vendors, and diverse food offerings. Diwali, which is celebrated by over a billion people worldwide, is particularly meaningful to many Indian and South Asian families in the Bay Area.
This year marks the culmination of the 2024 Bhangra & Beats Night Market series, which has attracted more than 34,000 visitors to San Francisco’s Financial District across three events. Mayor Breed emphasized the importance of Diwali in fostering community spirit and celebrating cultural diversity. She acknowledged the positive impact of the night markets on the downtown area, highlighting investments of over $15 million to rejuvenate the neighborhood and promote arts and culture.
The Bhangra & Beats Night Market has energized Friday nights in San Francisco, generating around $2.5 million in local business revenue since its inception. Sarah Dennis Phillips, the Executive Director of OEWD, noted how the event has attracted both locals and tourists, making downtown a vibrant destination for cultural festivities.
The Diwali celebration promises to be a unique event, filled with entertainment including an all-Indian music lineup, the creation of colorful rangoli designs, diya giveaways to symbolize light and warmth, and a bazaar featuring over 30 local artisans selling Indian snacks, sweets, jewelry, and more.
Katy Birnbaum, CEO and founder of Into The Streets, expressed her delight in seeing community members come together to celebrate their heritage at the Bhangra & Beats Night Market. Non Stop Bhangra also expressed its excitement in contributing to the celebration while marking its 20th anniversary of sharing Indian culture through music and dance.
Given the rise of night markets in San Francisco, the Bhangra & Beats Night Market stands out for its emphasis on South Asian culture, reflecting the growth of this demographic in the Bay Area. Local businesses, including legacy establishments, are eager to join the festivities.
As part of the celebration, attendees are encouraged to wear traditional Indian attire and engage in interactive activities such as sari tying and drum circles. The event will feature a dynamic musical lineup, including DJ Frenzy, a popular name in the global Bhangra scene, along with vibrant performances from Non Stop Bhangra.
The Bhangra & Beats Night Market is free and open to the public, with RSVP recommended through Eventbrite. This celebration not only highlights the significance of Diwali but also reinforces the sense of community and cultural pride among residents and visitors alike.
Summary: San Francisco prepares for its first official Diwali celebration on November 15, coinciding with Bhangra & Beats Night Market. The event, supported by city officials and community organizations, will celebrate South Asian culture through music, food, and interactive experiences, emphasizing the importance of community spirit and cultural heritage in the Bay Area.