Celebrating Holi in Queens

Holi may have officially passed, but here in Queens, the celebration is just getting started! This Sunday, March 23, the streets will come alive for one of the biggest Phagwah (Holi) parades outside of India, and if last year was any indication — it’s going to be an unforgettable experience.

Last year, my photographer and I had the best time capturing the energy, the culture, and the pure joy of the parade. From the moment we arrived, the air was buzzing with excitement — music blasting from trucks, people dancing in the streets, and vibrant clouds of pink, blue, yellow, and green filling the sky. It wasn’t just a parade; it was a full-on celebration of community, love, and tradition.

One of the highlights? Being on Singh’s Roti Shop’s float! Let me tell you, nothing beats vibing to soca and chutney music while cruising through the streets, throwing powder, and waving flags alongside people who truly embody the spirit of Holi. The Indo-Caribbean community shows UP for this festival, and it was amazing to see so many people from Trinidad, Guyana, and beyond proudly celebrating their heritage.

And of course, after all that fun, we had to stop by Singh’s Roti Shop for some well-deserved food. Because what’s a celebration without good eats? A plate of roti, pholourie, curry, and doubles was exactly what we needed to refuel after a day of running around and capturing every colorful moment.

If you’ve never been to a Holi parade before, I highly recommend checking it out. Whether you’re playing in the colors or just soaking in the energy, it’s an experience like no other. Queens is about to be LIT this weekend — so if you see me out there, don’t be afraid to throw some color my way!

Have you ever celebrated Holi or Phagwah? Let me know in the comments!