Chariot Festival of India July 24, 2011

The Chicago Hare Krishna Temple is inviting residents and neighbors of Rogers Park to its annual “Chariot Festival of India” on Sunday, July 24th, 2011. This festival has been Chicago’s own tradition for the last 30 years and has its beginnings at least a few thousand years ago in ancient India. The festival kicks off with a parade featuring a 20-foot high ornate and hand-pulled chariot down the streets of Rogers Park accompanied by music, singing, and dancing. And the best part is that anyone can participate, so there’s no need to be a bystander!

The parade begins at 11:30 a.m. at 1610 W Howard Avenue and moves through Sheridan Avenue to Loyola Park. Festivities continue at the park beginning at 12:30 p.m. with free lunch for everyone, Indian Classical Dance, Drama, music featuring Namrock band, children's activities, face-painting, henna, a traditional Indian store, and many other exciting activities for the entire family.

Three-time festival organizer Nachi Lolla mentioned, "I am especially excited about this year's festival because we’ve moved the festival back to Rogers Park, our neighborhood where we have been for 30 years. This festival is our way of inviting our neighbors to come join us in the fun. The response from the community so far has been fantastic and very supportive. We look forward to the opportunity to reciprocate their generosity by putting on a spectacular event.”

The Chariot Festival happens in over 75 countries around the world, with the largest and original one in Jagannath Puri on the eastern shores of India, which is attended by millions.

This event is open to all. Past attendee Edward Suda said, “I first came to the Chariot Festival a few years ago and have made it a point to come ever since. It’s a really great crowd that comes. Everyone’s very friendly, and the food is unreal.”

See you at the parade and festivities. For more details, please visit www.chariotfestival.org and/or call 773 973 0900.

Official Website: http://www.chariotfestival.org