By: Vandana Jhingan

Seattle witnessed a grand celebration of India’s 79th Independence Day with the inaugural India Day Parade on August 16, 2025. Organized by the Consulate General of India in Seattle in partnership with the City of Seattle, the event showcased the cultural diversity of all 28 states through vibrant dance performances, traditional floats, and the India Pavilion featuring One District One Product (ODOP) items from each state and union territory.
The parade was attended by over 2,000 people, including dignitaries such as Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, U.S. Congressman Adam Smith, Seattle Port Commissioner Sam Cho, and representatives from local municipalities and the U.S. Coast Guard. The ceremony began with a Vedic invocation, followed by the hoisting of the Indian national flag and the singing of the national anthems of India and the United States.
The parade highlighted India’s rich cultural tapestry, featuring performances of Garba from Gujarat, Lavani from Maharashtra, Kuchipudi from Andhra Pradesh, Boita Bandana from Odisha, and a float honoring Swami Vivekananda from West Bengal. Other highlights included displays of traditional art by young Indian-Americans, linguistic showcases by Gurukul, and a dynamic performance by Beats of Washington depicting the valor of Chhatrapati Shivaji.

The India Pavilion allowed attendees to explore more than 30 booths representing India’s states, offering ODOP products, regional cuisines, and cultural artifacts, providing a tangible glimpse into India’s heritage and traditions. The parade concluded with the ceremonial flag-off by the Consul General, Mayor Harrell, and other dignitaries, as tricolor balloons filled the sky, symbolizing unity and pride.

The first India Day Parade in Seattle set a vibrant precedent for celebrating India’s culture, heritage, and community spirit in the United States.