DiwaliSA to Light Up Hemisfair on November 2

Published on October 02, 2024

The annual event will showcase food, art, and music of India.

SAN ANTONIO (October 2, 2024) – The sights, sounds, flavor and traditions of India will illuminate Hemisfair and Arneson River Theatre at the 16th Annual Diwali San Antonio Festival of Lights on Saturday, November 2, 2024 from 4:30 p.m. to midnight. This free cultural attraction is open to the public and honors the diversity of India. The event features traditional Indian dance, entertainment, food, and crafts and is hosted by AnujaSA and the City of San Antonio.

The tradition of Diwali is a celebration of the triumph of light over dark and reflects perseverance. The “festival of lights” is recognized on the night of Diwali by placing candles, lamps and lights in homes and streets to light up the night. In San Antonio, DiwaliSA is significant because this festival was inspired by San Antonio’s Sister-City Agreement with Chennai, India, signed in 2008. 

“San Antonio is rich in culture and honored to support celebrations like Diwali SA,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “This event is a prime example of the comradery that exists through the City of San Antonio’s alliance with Chennai, India as a Sister-City. This event allows residents and visitors alike to celebrate while strengthening friendship and solidarity.”   

The Sister-City relationship between San Antonio and Chennai is strong, in part to AnujaSA, whose mission is to foster the relationship between these two great cities. AnujaSA has helped to cultivate and sustain numerous exchanges which include Arts and Culture, Medicine, Education, Business and Commerce, and Sports and Recreation.

“Diwali SA is a celebration of the vibrant Indian culture, a testament to our shared heritage, and an invitation for all to experience the beauty of unity in diversity,” said Anuja SA President Kausi Subramaniam. “We are thrilled to bring this festival to life once again at Arneson Theatre and Hemisfair in the heart of downtown San Antonio. Join us on Saturday, November 2nd for a night of lights, music, dance, the River Parade, vendors, fireworks and much more as we come together to illuminate our community with joy and togetherness.” 

Since the Sister-City agreement between the City of San Antonio and Chennai, India began in 2008, the two cities have built a strong and lasting relationship. AnujaSA has worked closely with the Global Engagement Division of the City of San Antonio’s Economic Development Department (EDD) to ensure the City continues a strong commitment to providing residents and visitors with creative cultural programming.  

“The annual DiwaliSA is our most important cultural activity held locally celebrating our sister city relationship in India with Chennai and sharing the beautiful culture of India with our residents,” said Sherry Dowlatshahi, Chief Protocol Officer, City of San Antonio Economic Development Department. “The City is a proud partner of this important arts festival which is made possible through partnership, generous sponsors, and a strong volunteer network.”  

For more information and updates about the Diwali San Antonio Festival of Lights, visit DiwaliSA.com or call (833) 4-ANUJASA.