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Diwali Celebration at 50th & France

Save the date to come celebrate Diwali with us on the weekend of October 10th at 50th & France! The kickoff for the weekend will be on Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at Nolan Mains Plaza. This event is brought to you by the Edina Asian American Alliance and 50th and France! We’re so excited to see you all there!

EAAA to Host Diwali Festival October 10–12
Join us for this free, family-friendly event

 

Sept. 24, 2025 (Edina, Minn.) — The Edina Asian American Alliance (EAAA) is excited to bring its annual Diwali celebration to 50th & France. This weekend-long Festival of Lights celebration is free, family-friendly and will bring the community together for a weekend filled with music, dance, cultural activities, shopping and food.

 

“Diwali is meant to bring the community together to celebrate the light of life overcoming obstacles. We are excited about our partnership between EAAA and 50th & France to share the traditions of Diwali with our community,” said Raja Chinnakotla, Community Co-Chair for the EAAA Diwali Committee.

 

Diwali Kickoff Celebration

 

What: Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music and movement as local groups light up the stage with high-energy fusion numbers and traditional South Asian performances. From dynamic dance troupes to soulful singers, this kickoff will set the perfect tone for a weekend of celebration.

  • Live performances from South Asian Arts and Theater House (SAATH), Beta Version, Mira Babal, Marathi Association of Minnesota, and other performances from our diverse community.

  • Diya painting activity

  • Henna art

  • Samosas, chai and bento boxes for purchase from Raag

  • Remarks from Edina Mayor Jim Hovland

 

When: Friday, Oct. 10, 6–8 p.m.
 

Where: The Plaza at Nolan Mains, 3945 Market St., Edina, MN 55424
Free parking is available in the North, Center and South ramps.

Photography and videography are welcome. Interviews available with Raja Chinnakotla, Feroza Mehta, Kamal Aggarwal, and Aditi Jha, Co-Chairs of the EAAA Diwali Committee.

More information: 
 

Renewing Ethnic & Vintage Indian Wear with Elegance (REVIWE) Wardrobe: South Asian Clothing Swap at Raag Restaurant

 

What: Bring gently used South Asian clothing (sarees, salwar kameez, indo western fusion wear, scarves, lehengas, sherwanis and more) for EAAA’s first clothing swap, REVIWE Wardrobe.
 

When: Saturday, Oct. 11, 11 a.m.– 3 p.m.
 

Where: Raag, 3812 W. 50th St., Minneapolis

Photography and videography are welcome. Interviews available with Neera Madhok and Kamal Aggarwal, Organizers of REVIWE Wardrobe. The owner of Raag, Sohil Goorha will also be available. Also during this time is Raag’s Grand Food Buffet (paid) and Diwali Bazaar (free).

 

Drop off site: The Fitting Room, 3937 Market St., Edina

Clothing can be dropped off at The Fitting Room before the event. Please check the website for additional drop off locations. 

 

Saree Draping at The Fitting Room

 

What: Ever wanted to wear a saree but didn’t know how? EAAA volunteers will help you learn how to drape one with ease. Sarees will be available for draping.


When: Sunday, Oct. 12, 12–2 p.m.


Where: The Fitting Room, 3937 Market St., Edina

Photography and videography are welcome. Interviews available with Co-Organizer Kamal Aggarwal, Volunteer Saree Draper Ruby Anik, and The Fitting Room’s Owner Kim Jurek-Valanzasca.

 

Three ways for community to participate (pick any or all): 

 

Contact: Kam Aggarwal at kamal_bopa@hotmail.com for additional information

 

  1. Kids Spotlight @ Diwali Kickoff: Kids are invited to take part in the Little Lamps Parade, leading the way and joyfully ushering participants into the celebration.

  2. Lamp Wall of Hope (all-family opt-in): Community members are invited to share their hopes on paper lanterns that will be installed across participating storefronts—our “Lamp Keepers.” Together, these lanterns will Light Up the City, creating a ribbon of welcoming light throughout the celebration.

  3. Storefront Art Exhibit: Local students and community members are invited to exhibit original artwork in participating storefronts on the themes of Light, Festivities, and My City—during the celebration and beyond. Works may explore how light shapes places and gatherings, how communities celebrate together, and what makes our city feel like home

 

In addition to the performances and activities, participating shops throughout 50th & France will offer Diwali weekend specials and festive fun. Guests are invited to explore boutiques, restaurants, and partner stores, including Sweet Science Ice Cream, The Petal, and Lush, for unique offers that highlight the spirit of the holiday.

 

The events are free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for families and friends to come together, experience the beauty of Diwali, and support local businesses.

 

Contacts

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