First Diwali Celebration In Edison Will Be ‘Historic,’ Says Mayor

EDISON, NJ — Papaianni Park in Edison will be transformed with thousands of lamps on Oct. 22 as Edison will host its first official Diwali celebration from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“It’s a historic milestone to celebrate Diwali as a township for the first time,” Mayor Sam Joshi said. “More than one-third of our township celebrates this holiday, but you don’t have to be religious to appreciate the beauty of light overcoming darkness.”

The township’s Diwali celebration will include food, music, fireworks, performances from local groups, and vendors.

“I invite everyone in our community to come out and celebrate our Township’s rich culture,” Joshi said.

A diya (lamp) lighting ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. followed by fireworks later.

Diwali or the "festival of lights" is one of India’s biggest festivals. Diwali is celebrated by millions of Indian-origin people in several countries and is an important festival for Hindus, Jains and Sikhs.

Diwali is a celebration of the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and hope over despair. While there are different stories and legends surrounding the festival, they all share the common theme of good triumphing over evil.

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