Over Easter weekend, the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, Utah, hosted thousands of guests for the 29th annual Festival of Colors. Many regard this annual celebration as the most iconic Holi celebration in the world, framed by the snow-capped Wasatch Range and the stunning Rajasthani-style temple.  

Holi Festivals, held around the world, are celebrations of new beginnings and the power of good over evil, drawn from several ancient Indian narratives. Appreciating the positivity and love at the annual event, thousands of Utahns join the family-friendly gathering every year. “It’s something to look out from the stage to see thousands of people grinning from ear to ear. Rarely does one find so many people so happy in one place at one time,” said Caru Das, FOC founder and Temple President. Multiple news media outlets reported on the Festival, which has become a tradition in Utah Valley and beyond. Festival goer Kyle Christensen said, “I bring my family every year. The kids have a blast. For me, the event is a reminder of all the things we have to be grateful for.”

When the Festival first began almost three decades ago, it was regarded as the “unofficial spring break event” for Brigham Young University students, another icon in Utah Valley, with an enrollment of over 35,000. “Now festival goers are about 50% young people and 50% young families,” Caru Das noted. Several dozen llamas, miniature cows, and exotic birds at the property are also big draws for families year-round. 

The Festival offered live music performances, DJs, cultural dance performances, yoga sessions, food, and joy-filled color throws throughout the two days of celebration. Performers and artists included Caru Das, who served as the MC and senior rapper, as well as TK and Nam Rock from the Mantra Band, Hip-Hop artists The Butter Thieves and Kiyoshi, DJs Vaibhav, and Crisanto, interactive dance performances by Malini Taneja from Bhakti Fusion Dance, Bollypop Utah, and Team Harsh. Priya Mohan and Aakansha Maheshwari offered Indian dance performances. BolyX Fitness and local yoga teachers guided guests in fun and fitness activities. Artist and performer Malini Taneja said, “Somehow in this life, I often find myself celebrating Holi with thousands of people. I haven’t counted exactly, but I’ve done over 50 color festivals all around the country and world.” She continued, “Holi is such a deeply spiritual festival that is rooted in Vraj culture. Sharing the holy names of Radha and Krishna and facilitating people to let loose and feel joy in their body and pray together is a gift.”

Over 1,000 plates of prasadam were sold from the Krishna’s Cuisine Food trailer. At the same time, 12 other vegan/vegetarian food vendors went away with smiles on their faces. The book table was busy all weekend with participants exploring spiritual literature. 

More festivals are planned for 2024: this same event will be held in Lorin Farr Park in Ogden, Utah, on June 1st, and the Krishna Temple in Salt Lake City on June 8th. For more information, visit their website. To follow Utah devotees’ inspiring service, visit their Facebook page and website.

For more pictures and videos, visit Caru Das’s Facebook page and local content producer Dr. Scott Anderson, who also shared some amazing photos and videos from this event. You can see his content on his Facebook page or visit his YouTube channel.