Flushing Town Hall brings an Indian wedding to its 12th Diwali festival on Nov. 1

Flushing Town Hall in Queens is turning its stage into a wedding hall this fall. The historic venue will hold its 12th annual Diwali Festival on Sunday, Nov. 1, from noon to 4 p.m. under the theme The Indian Wedding.

A dance drama on stage

At 2:15 p.m. Abha B. Roy and her Srijan Dance Company will act out wedding customs. Audiences will see the bride painted with henna and the haldi ceremony in which turmeric is applied to the bride and groom. The show also includes regional dances, the marriage ceremony and the farewell to the bride. A tassa drumming procession will welcome the bridal party so guests feel like part of the celebration.

Hands-on workshops

Before the show families can learn classical and folk dance steps and try block printing with artist Alka Mukerji. Josh Roychowdhury will lead a rangoli session for making colorful floor art. Visitors can also get henna designs and try Hindi calligraphy.

Food and the meaning of Diwali

Queens Curry Kitchen will sell food and drinks and Chef Nupur will show how to cook traditional vegetarian dishes. Diwali means a row of lights and it is the festival of light that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness. South Asian communities will observe the holiday itself on Sunday, Nov. 8. New York City public schools have closed for Diwali since 2023.

Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for member adults. Children attend free. The town hall will follow the festival with a Bollywood meets Hollywood concert on Nov. 14.