Clouds of color will burst over the Brooklyn Children’s Museum on Saturday, May 3, when the institution invites families to celebrate Holi with a day of dance, art, food and play.
Holi, known as the “Festival of Colors,” is rooted in ancient Hindu traditions and is celebrated across India and the world. Marking the arrival of spring, the holiday symbolizes renewal, love and the victory of good over evil.
“Celebrate Holi returns for another year at BCM — whether it’s your eighth time with us or your first, we look forward to this vibrant celebration,” said Atiba T. Edwards, president and CEO of Brooklyn Children’s Museum. “Holi is a time to embrace spring and renewal, and to come together in celebration as one.”
Presented in partnership with Ajna Dance Company and The Culture Tree, the museum’s annual Holi event has become its most popular observance, drawing thousands of visitors from across the tri-state area.
“The Culture Tree is thrilled to share the stories and traditions of Holi at Brooklyn Children’s Museum,” said Anu Sehgal, founder and CEO of The Culture Tree. “Join us as we celebrate this vibrant Indian festival, offering families a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the magic and real spirit of this festival of new beginnings, spring, colors and inclusivity through engaging activities and cultural experiences.”
Celebrate Holi will run in three sessions: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., and 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Each session concludes with a color powder celebration in neighboring Brower Park. Families are encouraged to wear white and pre-purchase powder for full effect.
“This year we will start with an engaging bilingual storytime with my book Kahaani Rangeeli or Colorful Story, followed by a cooking session and tasting, and finally end with our puppet show, ‘Color of Krishna’s Love,’ which teaches the quintessential message of Holi: that by the end of the day after playing Holi, everyone looks the same, no matter their skin color, age, income level, or gender,” Sehgal said. “You can be a part of this joyous celebration that promotes diversity, inclusivity, understanding, and togetherness, as we spread joy and lots of colors through this unforgettable event.”
Edwards said the annual celebration “captures exactly what BCM is all about.”
“Seeing children and families covered in colors and dancing to Bollywood beats captures exactly what BCM is all about — bringing our community together through meaningful cultural experiences for upliftment and understanding.”
Tickets are $15 and free for children under one. For more information, visit brooklynkids.org/holi.
