Contributed by Surbhi an Shaun Kildare
Holi is a Hindu celebration at the beginning of spring. It is referred to as the “festival of colors” or the “festival of love.” The celebration marks the passing of winter, the triumph of good over evil, and is recognized as a time to put old disputes behind you.
The Holi celebration begins the night before, with a large bonfire signifying the destruction of evil. The following morning there is a large celebration in which brightly colored powders are thrown at and smeared on each other (think of a color run without a finish line). Waterguns and balloons are often added into the mix. In India, there are often parades of people going through town with music and showering the crowd with powder and water. Everyone is fair game and there is no limit with respect to rich or poor, child or elderly, friend or stranger. The day is ended with the sharing of a meal with friends and family.
Our family has celebrated this holiday and brought it to our neighbors when we first moved to Illinois, and now we would like to bring it to Tower Lakes. On Saturday, May 13, we will be having a bring-your-own picnic at Hussissian Park (Soccer Field). The color / water fight will start at approximately 1 PM but feel free to come anytime to have some fun! We will set up our small tent, 2 tables and several chairs, as well as our barbeque. Everyone is encouraged to come down and celebrate with us. Bring what you would like to eat and drink (and maybe a little extra to share). Attire is anything you don’t mind getting very dirty and possibly stained. Traditionally, white shirts are worn to show off the colors. I have been prepping colors (dyed cornstarch) and should have 100 pounds ready for the party. We hope to see you there.