Sikh life spins around a handful of festivals that bring history, faith and community spirit to the forefront—each one worth its weight in gold.

Vaisakhi (mid-April)
Often called the soul of Sikh identity, Vaisakhi marks Guru Gobind Singh’s 1699 creation of the Khalsa. Streets burst into colour as Nagar Kirtans wind through cities from Amritsar to Toronto, while langars dish out free meals to thousands. This year’s parade in Vancouver drew record crowds, proving its global appeal.

Guru Nanak Jayanti (Gurpurab) (November)
The birthday of Guru Nanak, the faith’s founder, becomes a week-long celebration of kirtan, hymns and Akhand Path (continuous scripture reading). Gurdwaras sparkle with lights just like Diwali fireworks, and volunteers serve langar around the clock. In 2025, a new community kitchen in Brussels celebrated its inaugural Guru Nanak Gurpurab, highlighting the faith’s ever-growing footprint.

Hola Mohalla (March)
Started by Guru Gobind Singh to channel martial skills into spiritual growth, Hola Mohalla is a day of mock battles, poetry competitions and displays of Gatka (stick fighting). It’s a brilliant mix of fierce discipline and heartfelt devotion—proof that faith can flex its muscles for good.

Bandi Chhor Divas (October/November)
Coinciding with Diwali, this festival commemorates Guru Hargobind’s release from Gwalior Fort. Gurdwaras and homes glow with lamps, symbolizing freedom and justice. In cities like Amritsar, the Golden Temple’s reflection in the water shines brighter than any firework.

Maghi (January)
Honoring the “Forty Liberated Ones” who stood by Guru Gobind Singh, Maghi brings Sikhs to sacred sarovars (pools) for prayers and parades. The spirit of sacrifice and solidarity shines through chilly winters, offering a beacon of hope.

Sprinkled throughout the year are anniversaries of Guru Arjan Dev’s martyrdom, Guru Tegh Bahadur’s ultimate stand for religious freedom, and other moments that stitched together Sikh history. Each festival weaves together devotion, equality and a shared determination to light up the world—one lamp, one hymn, one meal at a time.