Holi is a Hindu festival, also known as the Festival of Colours. It is celebrated to welcome the spring season in India, and typically takes place in March (depending on the full-moon day of Phalguna). It symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The day before Holi, pyres, or mounds of combustible materials, are lit on fire to signify the burning of evil spirits. The day of Holi, people crowd the streets to celebrate by throwing colored powders in the air and at each other. They also shoot water guns and throw water balloons filled with colored water. The day commences with a gathering and a meal. Sweets are often exchanged as well.  

The significance of each colored powders: 

Blue: Represents Krishna, who is a manifestation of Vishnu 

Red: Used to wish the goddesses and gods a happy Holi; it is the most used color and represents weddings, fertility and love  

Yellow: Represents health and happiness, but also knowledge, peace and learning 

Green: Represents Prince Rama, another manifestation of Vishnu life, but also new beginnings, harvest, and virility 

Orange: The color of the sun, which represents a new day (though not a traditional color) 

Learn more about Holi:

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Lindsay

Lindsay is a Youth Services Librarian at the Main Library who enjoys reading juvenile fiction, cozy mysteries and cookbooks with pictures. She adores her best friend, Simon, a shar-pei/basset hound and tries to get him involved in her programs when possible. Traveling, tattoos and trying new foods are some of her interests as well as crafting and delving into other cultures.