One of the most anticipated multicultural events of the Lower Mainland the Surrey Vaisakhi Parade was celebrated over the weekend.
Canada’s largest Vaisakhi Parade outside of Punjab, India took place on Saturday, April 20th, in Surrey, and was attended by 550,000 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.
Surrey residents were excited to be a part of the parade once again and dressed up in colourful traditional attire.
The parade route started at the Gurdwara Sahib Dasmesh Darbar, one of the largest Sikh temples in North America, on 128th street and 85th Ave, and wound through the streets of Surrey, attracting participants and spectators from all over the Lower Mainland and beyond.
Road closures were in place from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm on the day of the parade. 128th Street was closed and detours were in place between 72 Avenue to 88 Avenue, and Scott Road to King George Boulevard.
The colorful and vibrant community event started building around 8:30am and saw volunteers and local businesses enthusiastically handing out treats and food to attendees in order to make it an enjoyable and memorable experience. The Sikh Motorcycle club was also present to savour the joyous atmosphere.
To ensure the event ran smoothly Surrey Fire Service, Surrey RCMP, Surrey Police Service, Surrey Bylaws and BC Ambulance Service were also on scene.
High profile politicians such as the Opposition leader of the BC United Party, Kevin Falcon, MLA Jinny Sims, and Minister of Labour Harry Bains were in attendance at the parade along with Minister of Trade, Jagrup Brar.
Thrilled to be part of the vibrant celebration at the Surrey Vaisakhi Parade! 🌾🎉
— Kevin Falcon (@KevinFalcon) April 21, 2024
Such a beautiful display of culture, unity, and community spirit.
Grateful for the warm welcome and the opportunity to immerse in the rich traditions. #SurreyVaisakhi pic.twitter.com/kzAXYKDhi9
This weekend, I celebrated the Surrey Khalsa Day Vaisakhi Parade with my BC United team and over 700,000 people!
— Kevin Falcon (@KevinFalcon) April 24, 2023
Big thanks to the event organizers and to BC's Sikh community for sharing their vibrant culture with us.
Don't miss the highlights of this unforgettable day!👇 pic.twitter.com/GLykqmmAGM
So enjoyed chatting with and meeting community members and visitors at the #Vaisakhi parade I @CityofSurrey Happy Vaisakhi to all. pic.twitter.com/FpIzCgVEJx
— Jinny Sims (@jinnysims) April 21, 2024
A great day yesterday at the Surrey Nagar Kirtan! It always makes me so proud to see our community come together as one. Happy Vaisakhi - Vaisakhi Diyan Lakh Lakh Vadhaiyan!🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/XFn2sHVkrE
— Harry Bains (@HarryBainsSN) April 21, 2024
Happy Vaisakhi! Wishing everyone a harvest of prosperity, joy, and vibrant health! pic.twitter.com/xibW5W7Az8
— Jagrup Brar (@JagrupBrar1) April 21, 2024
The Darpan Magazine team was at the parade in full force and parade goers were eager to pick up a copy of the special Vaisakhi issue of the magazine.
Darpan Magazine hopes to see more of you take part in the Vaisakhi celebration next year.
