After a three-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the vibrant and colorful Vaisakhi parade is back in Surrey, much to the delight of the local community. The Vaisaki parade in Surrey is the largest outside of Punjab, India and is expected to draw a crowd of over 500,000 people. Vaisakhi is a significant festival in Sikhism and Punjab, commemorating the harvest season and the birth of the Khalsa, the community of baptized Sikhs. The festival has gained prominence in Canada, especially in British Columbia, home to the largest Sikh population outside of India.
The parade features colorful floats, music, and food, showcasing the rich and diverse Sikh and Punjabi culture. The parade route starts at the Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar, one of the largest Sikh temples in North America, on 128th street and 85th Ave, and winds through the streets of Surrey, attracting participants and spectators from all over the Lower Mainland and beyond.
A number of road closures will be taking place in the City of Surrey this weekend due to the parade. Police ask that members of the public make arrangements to use alternate routes.
Road closures will be in place from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm on the day of the parade. Delays may be expected for travel between 72 Avenue to 88 Avenue, and Scott Road to King George Boulevard.
The Darpan Magazine team wishes everyone a very Happy Vaisakhi.