Lunada Bay Diwali Celebration Lights Up the Community
“Diwali has been my favorite festival since childhood—mainly because of its meaning: light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil,” says event organizer Shikha Vidjearadji. “I love Diwali because it’s a beautiful reminder to shine from within and use our own light to make the world around us a brighter place.”
On October 18, 2025, Lunada Bay Park in Palos Verdes Estates came alive with light and celebration as more than 700 people gathered for the annual Lunada Bay Diwali Festival.
Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali holds deep significance as a celebration of light over darkness and the unifying power of community. Families and friends came together to share laughter, music, and delicious food, creating memories that truly embodied the spirit of the season.
Guests enjoyed a vibrant spread of Indian delicacies — crispy samosas, tender chicken tikka, spicy tikki chana, pakoras, flavorful veg chow mein, creamy chicken tikka masala, soft naan, mixed vegetable masala, and dal makhani — all topped off with a mango lassi and chai cart. The sweetness continued with a traditional Indian rice pudding dessert.
The evening sparkled with entertainment — a Bollywood DJ, energetic Dhol beats, Bhangra and bollywood performances, and a dazzling light robot show, each adding its own touch of magic. Guests also enjoyed a 360° photo booth, casino games, henna art, Icecream sundaes, kids softplay, while professional photographer Heather Jewell captured every joyful moment.
A special cocktail bar added extra festivity, featuring themed drinks such as Bollywood Breeze, Diwali Crush, Tandoori Sunrise, Lime Masti, Dhol Beats, Festive Masala, and Firecracker on the Rocks.
The night concluded with an exciting raffle, offering over $2,200 in gifts and cash prizes, followed by heartfelt gratitude for the event’s generous sponsors.
“The joy in spreading the light is absolutely my favorite part,” says Mrs. Vidjearadji, who shares a quote close to her heart: “You have to find what sparks a light in you so that you, in your own way, can illuminate the world.”
Three years ago, I began the tradition of Lunada Bay Diwali to invite more luck and prosperity into our lives and our community,” Mrs. Vidjearadji shares. “By far, this Diwali was the most magical yet. When we share our light with others, everything around us shines brighter.”
A warm thank you goes out to the event’s major sponsors — Century 21 Union, Pacific Pain and Wellness Group, Peninsula Physical Therapy, Arjay Plaza, Terranea Resort, All Valley Washer, Lunada Bay Hardware Store, Fat Tomato Pizza (RHE), and School of Rock (PV) — as well as Tony from Beach City Christmas Lights, who made the spectacular lighting possible. Thank you to Dj PeterMadana, Tej dhol @tejxbeatz, Heatherjewellphotography, bartender blissfulpour, blossombabyrentals, Pineda private security, mixedcravingscart, photoboothforce, booth by @exquisitejewelry21 and @ecoSmartGoods
Photo credit: Heather Jewell at Heather Jewell Photography
