On October 22, the Burlington Convention Centre will come alive for an incredible cause. The Diwali Community Garba promises to be an evening packed with fun. Everyone is invited to celebrate the season of light in support of Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation (JBHF).
Community Fun for an Important Community Cause
Deepa Ganatra PT, Vice Chair of the JBHF Board and Chair of the JBHF Diwali Community Garba Planning Committee is looking forward to welcoming the entire community to the event.
“We wanted to hold an event that would resonate with area communities that hadn’t previously felt a connection to Joseph Brant Hospital. This event is unique, as it’s family-friendly, active and engaging, and so celebratory in nature—you can’t help but have a great time!” she says.
“Our event is designed to be more inclusive of our wider community than a traditional gala, with ticket price very reasonable so whole families and friend-groups could join in the fun. Where else this Diwali season will you be able to enjoy delicious food and beverages, join in traditional Garba dancing with dance instruction, with your family and friends, AND support quality healthcare close to home at JBH, all for the low price of $35 per person?”
Celebrate Diwali with Music, Dancing Garba, and Delicious Food
Diwali, which is one of India’s most important holidays of the year, is often known as the festival of lights. It is common for people to perform Garba, a traditional dance where participants join together in a circle, during this festival.
“I’m definitely looking forward to our wider Burlington community coming together for this Garba and having a fantastic time participating in cultural appreciation while collectively showing our support for our community’s Joseph Brant Hospital,” says Deepa.
“You don’t have to be from the South Asian community to have a fantastic time at the Garba. We have endeavoured to make it very easy and comfortable for people to participate by posting on our website: how-to-play Garba instructional videos, suggestions on where to source authentic clothing, or what to pull from your own closet to wear, and onsite dance instruction at the Garba event.”
Attendees can expect a magical and fun experience for all ages. The event will feature live music by Darshana Thaker and Harshal Bhatt, Garba lessons, and an array of delicious traditional Indian appetizers.
“For those that are used to attending multiple garbas during Navratri time, we want them to feel like they are attending an authentic Garba event, with vegetarian and non-alcoholic food and beverages, fantastic live singers and musicians, and even food options for those that will be fasting. But the biggest difference of all, is that our Garba is more than just a Garba, as all proceeds are in support of Joseph Brant Hospital urgent priorities. By participating, you are supporting quality healthcare for your entire community,” explains Deepa.
Sponsoring a Great Cause
Events like the Diwali Community Garba rely on sponsorships to increase their fundraising capabilities. According to Deepa, there is always room for more sponsors.
“This is a fantastic way to increase your reach and exposure to a specific demographic. Participating as a sponsor of this Garba hospital fundraiser, also demonstrates you recognize the diverse communities that the hospital serves and employs,” she says.
The JBHF relies on events like this one to help support the local hospital. The Foundation funds important healthcare initiatives, including the purchase of new state-of-the-art medical equipment, updating the labour and delivery unit, and enhancing mental health programs.
To learn more about how you can help support the foundation or to sponsor the Diwali Community Garba, visit them online here.
Join the fun at the Diwali Community Garba on October 22 from 6pm until 11pm at the Burlington Convention Centre. Tickets are available online for $35 each (children under 3 are free) or 10 for $300. Your ticket includes entry to the event, parking, appetizers, non-alcoholic bar, dancing, and an incredibly fun night for an important cause.
For more information about what to expect at the event, including information about traditional Garba clothes, visit the FAQ page.
