Over 200 drones light up the night sky to celebrate Diwali in Caledon

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Town of Caledon recently celebrated Diwali in its own unique way. 

On November 2, Caledon hosted its annual Diwali Drone Show. A new tradition in Caledon, the award-winning show offered residents an environmentally-friendly way to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

The show was held in the parking lot of the Southfields Community Centre in Southfields Village, and the parking lot was packed full with excited residents out to enjoy the show.

Town of Caledon staff thanked all who came out to the show in a social media post after the event. 

“Featuring a spectacular display of over 200 drones, the sky was illuminated with various symbols reflecting the essence of Diwali. Events like this are a vital part of our commitment to enhancing the livability and vitality of our community, and we look forward to next year's celebrations,” said staff.

Ward 2 Councillor Dave Sheen attended the event and said it was a truly spectacular night. 

“Families came together to celebrate the Festival of Lights, enjoying vibrant music and a sense of community.  This environmentally-friendly alternative to fireworks truly captured the spirit of Diwali — light triumphing over darkness,” said Sheen on social media. 

Sheen also thanked the Caledon South Asian Association, a local non-profit with the goal to increase South Asian cultural awareness and help facilitate access to resources and services that South Asians in Caledon are most in need of, for its help with the event. 

This year's drone show was the second to be held in Caledon.

The inaugural show received Parks and Recreation Ontario's Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Award. 

Parks and Recreation Ontario is a non-profit association that's goal is to advance the health, social and environmental benefits of quality recreation through evidence-based practices, resources and collaborative partnerships.