Downton Alexandria was the place to be for colorful family fun as the Cenla Indian Association held its annual Holi Fest, Saturday, May 20. The festival, a multicultural area tradition since 2013, is a fundraiser for the Children’s Advocacy Network that drew approximately 1,000 people to enjoy an afternoon of music, food, and lots of color.
The event featured a 5k walk, jog or run with a fun twist. The 130 runners ran through clouds of brightly colored smoke as they started the run. Volunteers also threw bright powdered paint at the runners. A firetruck from the Alexandria Fire Department put a mist over the finish line to keep everyone cool in the heat and to provide a fun play area for the children.
The Royal Indian Bistro, a local Indian restaurant, served up hundreds of plates of tasty Indian fare, while over 50 volunteers threw powdered paint on participants and kept the event running smoothly. There was an arts and crafts area for children as well as a supply of water pistols to entertain the younger set.
The Holi Fest celebrated the varied and dynamic cultures of India. Dancers performed pieces representative of some of India’s 28 states and several hundred languages.
The Holi Fest is held as a fundraiser for the Children’s Advocacy Network and is expected to raise $20,000.00 to assist area children finding themselves in difficult circumstances. The event is terrific family fun and a superb example of people of differing races and cultures coming together for a common purpose to make our community a better place for our children.
The Rapides Parish Journal is donating its event photography. You can view the photos by clicking the “Kevin’s Gallery” link. If you do see a photograph you like, feel free to download it. We do ask that you consider a donation to the Children’s Advocacy Network in lieu of payment
