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A multitude of colors flew across the sky, creating an eccentric dust cloud during the Holi Festival of Colors on March 8 in Norwalk. People from all walks of life and surrounding areas, including many from Orange County, came together for a day of fun and color to welcome the spring season.

The venue turned into a playful battlefield as splashes of purple-, pink-, green-, orange-, and yellow-colored dust were thrown from one person to another as people walked around enjoying the festival’s lively spirit.

The color throwing is part of a Hindu tradition of throwing worries to the wind and embracing the new season through social harmony. The tradition can be traced back as far as the 16th century through several paintings and sculptures.

One walk across the field was all it took for a rainbow of colors to cover every attendee. The frolicsome event brought out the mischievous side of people as they quickly plotted who to splatter next.

“I’ve never been a part of something like this before,” says Long Beach resident Chris Hernandez, as he looked over his shoulder to anticipate any flying colors heading his way. “I came out not knowing what to expect, but I’m having a great time. Everyone’s great and it’s just such a fun place to be.”

Mantra music soundtracked the day with artists bringing their unique sounds and dance techniques to the main stage for an uplifting and blissful experience.

Dancer and entertainer Lokah was one of the many artists who graced the festival’s main stage. His uplifting kirtan chanting music draws upon a blend of yoga, dance and meditation, with a goal to inspire others to live a joyous life filled with good intentions. Lokah engaged the crowd during his performance by encouraging them to participate in the Bhakti Dance, which incorporates breathing awareness and meditative dance moves.

Those who needed a break from the dancing and fun, were able to explore the rest of the festival – which included food trucks, vendors and a bounce house for kids – or simply sit out on the grass and watch the fun.

Though the colors and performers were the stars of the day, in the end, what guests seemed to love the most about the festival was its ability to bring people from all religions, ethnicities and backgrounds together for good fun.