Vaisakhi returns to Prince George May 17

PRINCE GEORGE — The annual Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan will return to Prince George on May 17.

The event marks a chance to celebrate Sikh faith and culture and will begin with a parade procession from Guru Nanak Darbar at 10 a.m. The procession is expected to arrive at the CN Centre parking lot by noon, where community members can enjoy free vegetarian meals and snacks, speeches and traditional Sikh martial arts demonstrations. The event will end at 2 p.m.

Nagar Kirtan, which translates to “singing hymns through the town,” is a Sikh tradition where sacred music and teachings are shared publicly as a form of outreach, and to celebrate Vaisakhi—the Sikh festival that commemorates the founding of the Khalsa (the Sikh community) in 1699. Everyone is welcome to attend, with the aim of strengthening community connections and promoting unity.

In keeping with the Sikh community’s respect for the Guru Granth Sahib—Sikh Scriptures—, participants are asked to cover their heads with a scarf, turban or bandana, and to refrain from smoking, vaping or consuming alcohol during the procession.