As a mom of two adorable half-Indian kids, I’m always on the lookout for ways to dive into and celebrate their rich cultural heritage. And guess what? March 25 brings one of India’s most epic festivals – Holi, the Festival of Colors, Love, and Spring. I share the best local Holi events along with fun, simple ways to celebrate this colorful Holiday at home with kids.
What is Holi?
Holi is a Holiday celebrated in India and around the world, where people toss vibrant colored powders at each other to welcome spring. In the Hindu faith, it also symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. It’s a day filled with laughter, joy, and making new friends – and a load or two of laundry post-celebration.
3 Simple Ways to Celebrate Holi at Home with Kids
For those new to this colorful holiday, “Let’s Celebrate Holi!” by Ajanta Chakraborty is your perfect introduction. This charming children’s book breaks down Holi with a simple narrative that’s easy for all ages to understand. If you’re ready to level up, you can also purchase the corresponding Activity Book with 50 dance choreographies, crafts, recipes, puzzles, word games, coloring, and more.
If you want to introduce your kids to some more Holi magic, try these simple activities:
1. Host a Mess-free Colors Party:
Host a dance party with Indian dance music on Spotify and throw colorful scarves at each other while yelling “Holi Hai!”. It’s a great way to burn off that endless kid energy without the hassle of post-party laundry.
2. Try a Traditional Indian Sweet:
Our family’s favorite Indian sweet is Shakarpara. These magical little golden, crispy, sweet sugary squares are relatively easy to make but your local Indian store’s version is probably delicious too. Give it a try, and thank me later.
3. Make Rangoli Art:
Have your kids get creative with vibrant rangoli stencils and colored chalk on your driveway or sidewalk. It’s a simple way to celebrate Holi and enjoy a nice Spring day outside.
Not up for hosting your own celebration but want to throw colors? Explore these local Holi events perfect for the whole family.
Holi Events in and around Washington, DC
Holi in the District 2024 at Union Market
- Date: Monday, March 25
- Time: 6 – 8pm EST
- Location: Union Market; 1309 5th Street Northeast, Washington, DC 20002
- Details: In partnership with RASA and DC Dosa, Union Market District invites you to the vibrant celebration of Holi, the Festival of Colors. Get ready for an evening filled with authentic Indian flavors, great music, dancing, cocktails, and festivities.
Maryland 2024 Holi Color Fun Run/Walk
- Date: Sunday, April 21
- Time: 10:30 – 11am EST
- Location: Chrysalis, Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods; 10431 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044
- Details: FREE community event celebrating the Festival of Colors by dancing through clouds of bright powder that ensure you walk away a visible representation of community, spring, and joy!
Virginia Festival of Colors 2024
- Date: Saturday, April 27
- Time: 12 – 7pm EST
- Location: Bull Run Regional Park / Special Event Center, 7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville, VA 20121
- Details: Includes music, performances by celebrity DJs, interactive dances by local and out-of-state dance schools, a variety of cuisines, a full bar, hookah, shopping opportunities, kids’ activities, and the joy of freely throwing colors on each other.
Wishing you all a Happy Holi, Moms!
