Experience the joy and traditions of India at Diwali: Lights of India on Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall. This free, family-friendly festival will enchant guests of all ages with vibrant music, dance, visual art, and hands-on activities celebrating Diwali, India’s popular festival, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

Enjoy a full afternoon of music and dance, from an Indian classical choir from the Swaranjali School of Music to Odissi dance by Urvasi Dance Ensemble and Kathak dance by Anga Kala Kathak Academy. Performances also include folk and semi-classical fusion by Labonyo, devotional songs from the Vedic Cultural Center, Manipuri dance by Movement in Motion, Kerala art forms from the Kerala Association of Washington, a percussion ensemble by the Indian Percussive Arts Center, and lively Maharashtra folk dances in the lavani tradition. Theday will conclude with the Temple of Music’s classical violin youth ensemble, led by Grammy Award–winning violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan.

In addition to the stage performances, explore upstairs visual art galleries and workshops. Deepti Designs will present Madhubani art, Devika Mehrotra will lead textile block printing demonstrations, Ramya Shankar will host a puppet show and workshop, and Expression Arts will showcase a gallery and workshop.

The festival, organized by Northwest Share, will also feature hands-on activities throughout the Armory. Contribute to the creation of a rangoli flower mandala, try henna and face painting, make flower garlands, explore spice and aromatherapy crafts, and decorate cookies and cupcakes. You can also take part in clay Ganesha modeling, lamp and rock painting, pot walking, and astrology readings, as well as watch demonstrations of fresh roti making.

Diwali: Lights of India is part of Seattle Center Festál, a year-round series of 25 free cultural festivals. Learn more about Festál (seattlecenter.com/festal).