2026 ECC Diwali Mela

RIDGEFIELD, CT, September 29, 2026 – The Ekta Community Center (ECC) is pleased to announce its annual 2026 Diwali Mela, a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and the spirit of Diwali, the Festival of Lights celebrated by more than one billion people of Indian and South Asian heritage around the world. The word Mela means "fair" or "gathering" in multiple Indian languages and reflects the event's festive and communal atmosphere. In keeping with that tradition, the event will feature cultural programs, a marketplace of South Asian businesses and artists, regional Indian cuisine, and a lively DJ-led dance floor featuring popular Bollywood and contemporary Indian music. The event will take place on Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Ridgefield Parks & Recreation Gym, 195 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, Connecticut. Diwali Mela is the signature event of Ekta Community Center, a secular nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting cultural understanding, community engagement, and the celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Indian American and other South Asian communities. Through educational, cultural, and civic programs, ECC continues to foster connections and strengthen community ties throughout the region. This year's cultural showcase will feature the rich diversity of India's performing arts, including four classical dance traditions, folk dances representing approximately nine Indian states, and energetic Bollywood performances, all presented by local residents and dance students from Ridgefield and neighboring communities. The event also serves as a marketplace for South Asian-owned businesses and entrepreneurs, featuring vendors offering clothing, jewelry, accessories, arts and crafts, and professional services. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of products while supporting local small businesses. Guests can also enjoy authentic regional Indian cuisine from some of Fairfield County’s most popular restaurants, showcasing the diverse culinary traditions and flavors found across India. This year the event is also hosting a bone marrow donor drive, with a particular focus on increasing donors from South Asian origins in the bone marrow registry. The 2026 Diwali Mela Committee welcomes everyone to join in celebrating the traditions of Diwali while fostering community, cultural appreciation, and meaningful connections among people from all backgrounds. Early Bird tickets are available for $10 per person through October 18, 2026, at ektacc.org/tickets. General admission will be $15 per person after October 18. ECC members and children ages five and under are admitted free of charge. Food and beverages will be available for purchase separately. About Ekta Community Center The Ekta Community Center (ECC) is a secular nonprofit organization based in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Its mission is to foster cultural understanding, community engagement, and the celebration of Indian American and South Asian heritage through educational, cultural, and civic programming that enriches the broader community. Event Details What: 2026 Diwali Mela When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Where: Ridgefield Parks & Recreation Gym, 195 Danbury Road, Ridgefield, CT Tickets: Free for ECC members; tickets available for non-members online Early Bird Deadline: October 18, 2026 Media Contact 2026 Diwali Mela Committee Ekta Community Center Email: ektacommunitycenter@gmail.com Website: https://ektacc.org