It was a busy Sunday across Greater Victoria, but along Cecelia Road, the focus was firmly on celebration as thousands gathered for the annual Khalsa Parade marking Vaisakhi.
An estimated 7,000 people attended the event, which brought together community members and visitors alike for a day filled with music, cultural performances, food and family-friendly activities.
The area surrounding Gurdwara Singh Sabha Sahib was packed with people enjoying one of the most important holidays in the Sikh calendar.
Vaisakhi commemorates the birth of the Khalsa in 1699, a pivotal moment in Sikh history when Sikhi was formalized in the Punjab region of India. The celebration in Victoria reflected that deep cultural and spiritual significance, while also showcasing the inclusivity the event is known for.
Throughout the day, volunteers handed out thousands of servings of food, with paper plates piled high with traditional Sikh dishes alongside modern favourites. The spirit of langar, a core Sikh value centred on sharing food with all, was on full display.
There was no shortage of energy either. A group of young performers captivated the crowd with a Gatka demonstration, a traditional Sikh martial art featuring precise stick and sword techniques.
Meanwhile, students from Dasmesh Khalsa School in Abbotsford performed songs in Punjabi in front of the gurdwara, drawing cheers from the crowd.
From the vibrant colours to the welcoming atmosphere, the Khalsa Parade once again showed why it remains one of Victoria’s most meaningful and well-attended cultural celebrations.
Without further ado, here are 18 photos from the Khalsa Parade celebrations:
More photos can be view on the Victoria Buzz Facebook group here!
💬 Join the conversation
No comments yet — be the first to start the conversation
