Color and unity at spectacular Holi celebration at Chicago’s Navy Pier

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Chicago, IL :Chicago once again affirmed its legacy as one of the world’s most vibrant, diverse, and welcoming cities as it hosted a spectacular celebration of Holi – the Indian Festival of Colors – at Navy Pier on Saturday March 23, 2025. The event brought together more than 10,000 people of all backgrounds to celebrate the arrival of spring, the beauty of cultural diversity, and the power of community partnerships.

Holi, celebrated for centuries across India and now around the globe, is a festival of joy, inclusivity, and renewal. In Chicago, it has grown into one of the city’s most beloved cultural celebrations, reflecting the spirit of a city that has long stood as a beacon of unity and opportunity.

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Mayor Brandon Johnson, who joined the festivities alongside top state and city leaders, hailed the event as a testament to Chicago’s values.

“Chicago is the city of big shoulders and even bigger hearts,” Mayor Johnson said. “It is only here, at the world’s largest pier, in the world’s most welcoming city, that you will find the largest Holi celebration in the United States — a celebration that embraces people of every race, religion, and culture.”

The event was yet another example of how the City of Chicago, under Mayor Johnson’s leadership, continues to champion cultural inclusion, international partnerships, and community-led initiatives that strengthen the social fabric of the city, organizers felt.

Organized by Navy Pier’s Global Connections Program in collaboration with ComEd, The Pratima and Niranjan Shah Foundation, Sue Ling Jin Foundation, and the Delhi Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, the celebration transformed Navy Pier’s Crystal Gardens into a colorful and joyful gathering space.

Smita N. Shah, Board Member of Navy Pier and ComEd, and Chair of the Delhi Committee, emphasized the significance of the event:

“This celebration is about more than just color — it’s about the Power of Partnerships. It’s about honoring the vibrant international communities that make Chicago unique and supporting the dreams and opportunities that unite us all.”

The event also saw the participation of distinguished Illinois leaders, including Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, and State Comptroller Susana Mendoza, who joined in celebrating the remarkable contributions of the Indian-American community.

Lieutenant Governor Stratton noted:

“Illinois is proud to have the second largest Indian population in the country. Events like Holi reflect our strength as a state — a place where people from every corner of the world come together, learn from one another, and build a better future.”

Secretary Giannoulias, accompanied by his young daughters, shared the following:

“This is a community that values family, education, and opportunity — values that define both Chicago and Illinois.”

Throughout the four-hour celebration, families and visitors experienced the essence of Holi — dancing to live Indian DJs, participating in the iconic color throwing, and enjoying traditional delicacies like samosas and lassis. The festive atmosphere embodied the joy of spring and the unity of cultures.

Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza reflected the mood of the crowd, stating:

“This event is simply a celebration of pure joy and community. I am honored to be part of this wonderful Chicago tradition.”

The event was also attended by Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India in Chicago, who applauded the City of Chicago’s leadership and the community’s overwhelming participation.

“It is inspiring to witness such a vibrant, diverse crowd come together to celebrate Holi. I commend the leadership of Mayor Johnson, city officials, and community partners for recognizing and honoring the contributions of the Indian-American community.”

Related posts:

Celebrating colors, camaraderie and community Mayor attends Holi celebrations at Navy Pier in Chicago  Several organizations collaborate to celebrate Holi in Chicago Holi: Ancient Tradition For Modern Times