RAPID CITY, S.D. (Nov. 16, 2017) – The India Club of the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology invites the public to celebrate Diwali 2017, featuring cultural foods, entertainment, and a firework show.
The annual event will be 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, in the Surbeck Center ballroom. The event is free and open to the public.
Diwali is the largest festival in India, celebrating peace and harmony beyond the Hindu religion. The India Club at SD Mines aims to increase awareness and understanding of the Indian culture.
The evening begins with cultural performances at 5 p.m. A firework display in the Surbeck/McLaury parking lot will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by authentic foods prepared by Indian students enrolled at Mines. Henna hand-painting stations will also be available.
The Diwali celebration at Mines includes a diverse range of participants from Indian, American, German and Malaysian cultural backgrounds. Additionally, students from other nationalities have also offered to help this year.
Donations will be accepted at the door to help offset the costs of food and fireworks, as well as future events and community service projects. Festival organizers are also looking for local businesses that are willing to donate or sponsor Diwali Night at Mines in exchange for recognition at the event.