Crowds streamed in from 2.00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to celebrate culture, community, and the meaning of Diwali.The festival has become one of the most anticipated celebrations in New Jersey and across the nation, drawing thousands of attendees each year, a press release from the Mayor’s office said.
The evening featured a drone and fireworks show sponsored by Patel Brothers. The drone display included imagery honoring America’s 250th anniversary alongside Diwali themes, followed by a fireworks display after sundown.
Throughout the day, guests enjoyed live musical performances, dance showcases, and a diya-lighting ceremony attended by more than a dozen elected officials and dignitaries, including Consul General of India Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, DOT Commissioner Priya Jain, Simon Shin-wei Chen of the Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in New York, and mayors and councilmembers from throughout the state.
The event also featured dozens of food and craft vendors, cultural displays, and children’s activities. More than 30 vendors were listed on the program for the event.
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“Edison’s Diwali Festival of Lights reflects the values and spirit that make Edison so special,” Mayor Samip Joshi is quoted saying in the press release. “This celebration of hope and the triumph of light over darkness has grown to bring tens of thousands of families and friends together.”