Viren's Lohri Party in Grande Prairie

The Lohri festival marks the last days of winter ... in Punjab, India.
 In Alberta, Canada, Lohri is celebrated by anyone who survived the first 6 months of winter and is looking forward to making it through the last 6 months of this magical and only season of the northern prairies.
There are many other reasons to enjoy this time of the year, like the landing of Baby Bear:
 Or the invention of a new Samsung app for smart phones, the one that helps with teeth growing:

 It happens to be Viren's first winter and he rents the Revolution Place in Grande Prairie for a memorable event:
 I'm invited and I bring my camera, because that's what I do.


 Viren's parents - you may know them from one of the many appearances on this blog - are welcoming everyone:

 The bonfire signifies the return of the longer days and it's a key feature of the Lohri:
 The silver tray carried by women signifies that the men have to start digging in their pockets:


 It could be a demanding task, but they must complete it.
 It's time for Viren to show up to the beat of the dhols:
 Family and friends gather around the fire and give offerings of sesame seeds, peanuts, rayveri and sweets:






 Bhangra and Gidda continue around the fire:







 Viren is getting ready to say goodnight, after a quiet dinner:
 And the cake cutting:
 Happy Lohri, Viren! Thank you so much for inviting me to your party. You're an amazing Baby Bear and can't wait to see you again!
love.party.more.cosmin

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