ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — Elmwood Park was transformed on Saturday to welcome back the annual Festival of India.
The festival lasted four hours and showcased numerous Indian vendors, food, and dancing.
The India Heritage Society has put on the event annually since 2007 and says they love seeing the way it brings the Roanoke community together.
Several local delegates and city council members were in attendance for the festivities with democratic Delegate Sam Rasoul assisting in raising the American and Indian flags and several more speaking to the thousands in attendance.
“The festival of India is always such a wonderful celebration of colors and people and outfits and food,” said Roanoke Vice Mayor Joe Cobb.
The city is home to over 100 different nationalities and the celebration shines a light on the area’s diversity.
It does that in part by giving the community a taste of Indian cuisine with dozens of vendors serving authentic dishes.
The food represented 15 different Indian states and is one of the biggest attractions for those who attend.
“People love the Indian dancing and the food,” said India Heritage Society Board Member Sunny Shah. “The food is street food from all around the country. And this year, most of the items are things you can’t find in restaurants.”
In addition to the food there was non-stop music and dancing at the Elmwood Amphitheater and numerous non-food vendors providing everything from Henna Tattoos to local items and clothing.
The event is only around for one day a year but is set to return once again in 2025.
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