Surati Holi Hai, organized by Surati for Performing Arts, is an annual festival in Jersey City, New Jersey, that brings the vibrant traditions of India’s Holi festival to the local community. Celebrated in early spring, this event marks the arrival of the season and the triumph of good over evil, embodying the essence of Holi. Participants gather to play with colors, throwing powdered hues and spraying colored water at each other, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere. The festival also features traditional music and dance performances, offering attendees an immersive cultural experience. Families and friends come together to enjoy the festivities, which include sharing sweets and delicacies, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness. Surati Holi Hai not only celebrates Indian culture but also promotes diversity and inclusivity within the Jersey City community, inviting people of all backgrounds to partake in the joyous occasion.
What happens at Surati Holi Hai?
Surati for Performing Arts, a Jersey City-based nonprofit, annually hosts the Surati Holi Hai festival, the tri-state area’s largest celebration of the Indian festival of colors. The event typically begins with the Hudson River Color Walk, where participants don provided Surati Holi T-shirts and embark on a scenic 1.5-mile walk along the Hudson River waterfront, starting from Pier A Park in Hoboken and concluding at Montgomery Street in Jersey City. Accompanied by live dhol drumming, dancing, and vibrant color play, the walk fosters a sense of community and joy.
Upon reaching Jersey City, the festivities continue with the Holi Hai Color Festival, featuring live music and dance performances, DJ dancing, color countdowns, food stalls, a full cash bar, and activities for all ages.
The festival embodies the traditional spirit of Holi, promoting unity and cultural appreciation among diverse attendees. Surati Holi Hai is supported by organizations such as New Jersey Travel and Tourism and the City of Jersey City, underscoring its significance in the region’s cultural landscape.
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