Every year one of Surrey’s largest and most colorful events returns! The Surrey Vaisakhi Parade which is celebrated as Vaisakhi, a centuries-old holiday celebrated by Sikhs worldwide. This occasion celebrates the origin of Sikhism in 1699 and is considered a spring harvest celebration. This beautiful festival shows the spirit of cultural diversity and unity. The Vaisakhi Parade is a lively and cheerful festival, that provides a glimpse into the Sikh community’s rich traditions and ideals while accepting individuals from all around the world. This delightful cultural celebration is open to the public and comprises a colorful and entertaining procession of over 2,500 individuals representing 20 community organizations. There is also live music and community performances, and hundreds of stalls along the route, sponsored by local families and companies, provide free food and drink to observers. This unique festival is a mesmerizing trip through the heart of Sikh culture, combining various colors, soul-stirring music, and a feeling of togetherness to create a memorable experience.
What is Vaisakhi?
Vaisakhi, a spring harvest festival in India’s Punjab region, is extremely important to Sikhs. It honors the birth of the Khalsa, the Sikh community’s identity, and formed the day when Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the order of initiated Sikhs known as the Khalsa Panth in 1699. Today, this festival has crossed the boundaries of time and connects with Sikhs all over the world. The parade route travels through Surrey’s streets, attracting participants and viewers from all walks of life. Sikhs and non-Sikhs alike gather along the road to greet each other with “Vaisakhi di vadhaiyan!” (Happy Vaisakhi!), the parade also features an outstanding performance of ancient Sikh practices, including martial arts and spiritual hymns, as well as langar (community feast) and the renowned float carrying the Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s holy scripture. The dhol drums’ rhythmic beat, the lyrical sounds of traditional instruments, and the colorful clothing of the participants fill the event with an energized intensity that is simply addicting.
To see this festival visitors from all around the province and even the United States travel to Surrey each year to take part in the religious services and amazing parade celebrations. The travelers thinking about going to see the parade, there is some advice that will make your visit a little smoother and a lot more pleasurable.
What you can do in the parade
Although the religious significance of Vaisakhi for Sikhs, people of other cultures are welcome and encouraged to attend the parade. Visitors are encouraged to cover their heads while walking with the floats and having food from the stalls put up along the parade route as a show of respect.
Activities performed in the Surrey Vaisakhi parade
What to see
There will be several stages put up along the parade route with live entertainment such as singing and dancing. The busiest and most popular are located along 128 Street. Stop and have a look at a few performances to get a sense of the joyous atmosphere of Vaisakhi! However, this is the most crowded section of the parade.
Food to eat
The food is one of the main highlights of the Vaisakhi parade. On the day of the parade, many families and businesses set up free food stalls. This is a way to remember the Sikh community’s values of seva (service) and langar (community kitchen). Feel free to sample the meals and try new things, but please be courteous. Take only what you need, and place your dishes and waste in the given containers along the way.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
The Parade can be crowded, and you will most likely be doing a lot of walking as you enjoy the various performances, view the floats, and, eat the food! Wear comfortable shoes and dress up in appropriate clothing.
The Vaisakhi Parade in Surrey provides visitors with more than just a peek at Sikh culture; it invites them to participate in a joyful celebration that crosses borders and backgrounds. It’s a vibrant tapestry of spirituality, tradition, and solidarity that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who attends. Whether you’re a Sikh or just love different cultures, the Vaisakhi Parade is a must-see event that exemplifies the sense of community, sharing and reverence.
