FREMONT: Federation of Indo Americans of Northern California (FIA) in association with Fremont Hindu Temple has announced its Festival of Globe (FOG) – Diwali and Fireworks 2015. Building on previous huge successes, this year’s Diwali, will be held in sprawling Alameda County Fair Grounds in Pleasanton on Saturday, October 24th, 2015.
Diwali is a national holiday in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Guyana, and many other countries. It is one of the most important festivals of the year and is celebrated by families performing traditional activities together in their homes. Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps filled with oil to signify the triumph of good over evil.
Diwali is also referred as Festival of Lights. Celebrants wear new clothes through the festival and share sweets and snacks with family members and friends. People pray for continued prosperity, wealth and health this day
FOG Diwali 2015 will begin by lighting up the lamp tradition at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. Thousands of people will be joining to celebrate the only Diwali festival with spectacular fireworks and an amazing laser show.
Cultural programs, Ramleela, a dazzling parade, fancy costumes, Fashion show, Yoga lessons, kids masti corner, a petting zoo, and animal rides will be there all day long starting at 11am.
A devotional worship of the Lakshmi, the Indian Goddess of wealth and prosperity will be followed by Jhankis and Parade from 5 pm to 6 pm. Shopping for jewelry, clothes, and delicious food will be there at more than 100 booths,
Diwali celebrations will include a Free Health Fair from 11 am till 2 pm. It offers medical checkups to every visitor and includes BP check, BMI, body fat analysis, and flu shots. There will be first aid team to help throughout the day.
FOG Diwali also presents “Global Knowledge Quiz – It’s a small world after all”. This is a unique concept of showcasing rich culture, dances and costumes from a wide cross section of the world. Associations representing different states of India and countries will showcase their heritage during Diwali.
FOG Band will showcase different global groups to perform live from 7 pm till 8 pm followed by spectacular fireworks & laser show at 8:30 pm
Describing the importance of the event, Dr Romesh Japra, Founder and Convener, FOG said, “FOG Diwali is one of the best ways for parents to keep their children in touch with the cultural roots and teach them key values that sustain us for life.
It is a very special occasion for community to come together and keep the traditions alive. This year we are making this festival global to include wider community and spread the love. Only when we have strong roots, can we grow and prosper in this land of opportunities.”
As always, FIA leads the community in providing a spacious, safe, exciting and joyful platform for everyone to come together and celebrate Diwali and relive the excitement experienced back in India.
For more details visit www.FOGSV.org.
Ritu Maheshwari
India Post News Service
