Now that recent flurries of powdery snow and blustery winds insist on whipping through campus, the more optimistic students may connect the chilly weather with the upcoming seasonal festivities. Other cultures outside of the United States are also preparing to celebrate their important holidays, and the India Students Association is ready to party this weekend.

A slew of fun activities promises to get everyone in the mood for the holidays, whether you trim the Christmas tree or light the menorah. Everyone is invited to the Great Hall of the Memorial Union this Saturday evening around 5:30 p.m. for a celebration of Diwali.

Diwali is known as the festival of lights; people all over India celebrate it with fervor. “It is actually New Year for some people in India,” said Mona Parikh, a member of the India Students Association and graduate student in MBA. “It’s celebrated by everyone, but it’s not New Year for everyone. It depends on the customs of different people.”

The holiday is so widespread and important that it can be compared to Christmas in America. Students dig the holiday because they get a vacation from school, people decorate their homes and everyone gives and receives presents. “People get two weeks off,” Parikh said. “It’s a general celebration time. There are a lot of fireworks. Basically a lot of the country is lighted up, like Christmas here. It’s a time for gift-giving also. Foods, like sweets, are exchanged.”

Everyone can look forward to a skit, Indian dance and music. For those with growling stomachs, there will be snacks provided, and for the downright ravenous folk, an authentic Indian meal will also be served. It’s a variety of different food, Parikh explained, but all of it is vegetarian fare.

Everyone is welcome to attend, if not for the great food, then for the education about different lifestyles. “They can have exposure to Indian culture and the diversity of India,” Parikh said. “Even the cultural program that we have on display doesn’t represent even 10 percent of the whole culture.”

The Association and Society for Indian Tradition and Arts (SITAR) have also livened up the hub on campus with a cultural display. This exhibit is an easy way for people to learn more about Indian culture and heritage.

For those who come just for the show on Saturday, the evening is completely free, and dinner is free for members of the India Students Association only. Dinner costs $6 for non-members.