Our Festivals
Celebrating Vedic Heritage Through Community Festivals
ISKCON Durham observes major Vedic festivals throughout the year as spiritual, cultural, and educational events open to the public. These celebrations preserve sacred traditions while fostering community engagement, intergenerational learning, and cultural awareness across the Durham Region.
Each festival features devotional music (kirtan), educational discourses, traditional arts, cultural performances, and prasadam distribution, creating an inclusive environment where families and residents can experience Vedic heritage and spiritual values together.
Sri Krishna Janmashtami
Sri Krishna Janmashtami marks the divine appearance of Lord Sri Krishna and is one of the most significant festivals in the Vedic calendar.
At ISKCON Durham, this celebration serves as both a devotional observance and a public cultural event. The program includes kirtan, scriptural presentations, traditional performances, and community meals, offering residents an opportunity to learn about Krishna’s teachings and their relevance in modern life.
Sri Radhashtami
Sri Radhashtami commemorates the appearance of Srimati Radharani, the embodiment of pure devotion and compassion.
This festival highlights the cultural and philosophical depth of Bhakti traditions through devotional singing, educational talks, and community participation. It provides a meaningful opportunity for cultural learning and spiritual reflection in an inclusive setting.
Sri Narasimha Chaturdasi
Sri Narasimha Chaturdasi celebrates Lord Narasimhadeva’s appearance and His protection of Prahlada Maharaja.
The festival emphasizes faith, courage, and righteousness through kirtan, scriptural discussions, and community gatherings. It also serves as an educational program introducing participants to Vedic philosophy and ethical teachings.
Sri Rama Navami
Sri Rama Navami marks the appearance of Lord Rama, symbolizing duty, integrity, and devotion.
At ISKCON Durham, this festival includes devotional music, cultural presentations, and discussions on timeless values such as dharma and leadership. The celebration encourages reflection on ethical living and community responsibility.
Sri Gaura Purnima
Sri Gaura Purnima celebrates the appearance of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who promoted congregational chanting and spiritual unity through the practice of Bhakti yoga. His teachings emphasize compassion, humility, and collective spiritual participation.
At ISKCON Durham, this festival is observed with extended kirtan, seminars, and community celebrations open to the public. The event highlights inclusivity and shared spiritual experience, encouraging broad participation regardless of background.
Sri Nityananda Trayodashi
Sri Nityananda Trayodashi commemorates the appearance of Lord Nityananda Prabhu, known for His outreach and boundless compassion. His teachings emphasize mercy, community inclusion, and service.
The festival includes devotional singing, discussions, and fellowship activities that strengthen community bonds. As part of ISKCON Durham’s cultural calendar, it promotes awareness of Vedic philosophy while encouraging volunteer engagement and participation.
Damodar Month (Kartik)
The sacred month of Kartik, also known as the Damodar Month, is dedicated to remembrance of Lord Krishna’s childhood pastimes. This month emphasizes humility, devotion, and loving service.
Throughout Kartik, ISKCON Durham hosts daily lamp offerings, educational sessions, and devotional gatherings. These programs provide structured spiritual learning opportunities while preserving traditional observances in a manner accessible to families and community members.
Diwali & Govardhan Puja
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Within the Vaishnava tradition, it is associated with sacred pastimes of the Lord and themes of gratitude and renewal.
Govardhan Puja commemorates Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect the residents of Vrindavan. At ISKCON Durham, these festivals are celebrated with cultural displays, educational presentations, traditional offerings, and community meals. The events promote heritage appreciation, volunteer participation, and inclusive cultural celebration across the Durham Region.
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