Diwali San Antonio: Festival of Lights Takes Over La Villita This Saturday

Launched in 2009 as means to partake in the Hindu festival of lights and strengthen San Antonio’s ties with its sister city of Chennai, India, Diwali illuminates La Villita the first Saturday in November.

A lively affair that celebrates the Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil, the annual favorite routinely brings together nearly 15,000 people for an evening combining Indian cuisine, cultural performances, artisan vendors, remarks from local dignitaries, a river parade and a traditional diya ceremony that sets floating candles adrift along the River Walk.

After noshing on classic and fusion-minded fare (from India Oven, Mangoes, Bombay Salsa and Biryani Pot, among others) and browsing vendors specializing in saris, jewelry, artwork and henna tattoos, guests can take in a stage show featuring dances representing 13 Indian states, get moving to DJ beats or Bollywood Zumba in Plaza Juarez, and stake out a spot for the grand finale — a full-on fireworks extravaganza (9:15pm).

Free, Saturday, November 4, 5-11pm, La Villita, 418 Villita St., (210) 273-2200, diwalisa.com.