The streets of South Vancouver will be filled with celebration this weekend as the annual Vaiskahi Festival and Parade takes place in the Punjabi Market area.
The cherished celebration that brings together locals and visitors alike is one of the country's biggest Vaisakhi events, featuring a traditional parade, vendors, and free food for all. This year's event is on Saturday, April 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (See slide 2 for a map of the parade route.)
"The Vancouver Vaisakhi Parade is one of the largest Sikh parades in the world," describe organizers from the Khasla Diwan Society. Thousands of people are expected to attend the festivities in Vancouver.
"Attendees of all races and cultures are welcome at this celebratory and rich cultural event, which features a large number of floats, community performers and live music. Free vegetarian meals are served by families along the Nagar Kirtan route (singing of the hymns in the streets)."
Giving out free food aligns "with the concept of Langar Seva (blessed food/communal meal and selfless service)," and "all are welcome" to enjoy the food, which is prepared by and paid for by community volunteers.
For the Vaisakhi Festival and Parade, the Punjabi Market area of South Vancouver will have several road closures in place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Road closures:
- Main St closed from E 49th Ave to SE Marine Dr
- Fraser St closed from E 41st Ave to SE Marine Dr
- Westbound SE Marine Dr closed from Knight St to Main St
- 57th Ave closed from Knight St to Ontario St
Attendees are encouraged to "walk, bike, roll, or take transit" to the event.
Drivers should be aware of the road closures and expect delays.
“Vaisakhi is a cultural celebration for our South Asian community that brings joy and vibrancy to Vancouver,” said Mayor Ken Sim in a media release. “It’s a fantastic display of culture, with community performers and live music for all Vancouverites to enjoy. I invite everyone to visit Punjabi Market this weekend to attend the parade, take in the delicious food, and support our local businesses.”
Last year, Vancouver's Vaisakhi Festival and Parade made its triumphant return after taking the pandemic years off.
