Portland, Oregon is a hub for numerous cultural festivals, yet some observances remain lesser-known, such as South Asian Heritage Month running from July 18 to August 17.
This celebration, which originated in the United Kingdom in 2020, shines a light on the rich traditions and histories of South Asian countries including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and the Maldives.
Although it is not formally recognized in the United States, South Asian communities in Oregon have actively taken the initiative to celebrate their heritage through grassroots efforts.
Washington County, home to over 23,000 South Asian residents, has become a focal point for these cultural celebrations.
Community-led events have contributed significantly to showcasing the cultural richness of the region, with highlights including the annual India Festival, which features an array of music, dance, food, and storytelling.
For those looking to engage with South Asian culture this season, from August through October, several exciting events are slated to take place.
**SKN Dance Fest 2025**
This year marks the eighth installment of the SKN Dance Fest, a daylong celebration of Indian classical arts hosted by Sarada Kala Nilayam, a Beaverton-based, woman- and minority-owned dance and music organization.
The festival will feature two live performances that showcase the elegance of Bharatanatyam dance, alongside its rhythmic counterpart, Nattuvangam, all performed with a full orchestra.
Attendees can look forward to original choreography, a cast of 20 local artists, and immersive community workshops led by Sri S. Ravisankar.
Outside the theater, visitors can explore a variety of food, henna, and handmade goods from local artisans and vendors.
Scheduled for 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Sunday, August 10, at New Expressive Works, located at 810 S.E. Belmont St., tickets for this vibrant event range from $5 to $20 and can be purchased at tickettomato.com/event/9484.
**TIRANGA: India Independence Party**
On August 15, a late-night dance party dubbed TIRANGA will take place, celebrating 78 years of India’s independence.
Hosted by DJ Prashant, the founder of the popular Jai Ho! Dance Party, this event features a blend of Bollywood hits, regional anthems, and interactive dance lessons, inviting participants to wear colors of the Indian flag—orange, white, and green.
Attendees can expect vibrant visuals, henna art, live performances, and professional photography enhancing the festive atmosphere.
This 21+ event runs from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Elevate Nightclub, located at 125 N.W. 5th Ave., with tickets starting at $14.95 available on eventbrite.com, by searching “Tiranga.”
**India Festival 2025**
Following a temporary relocation to Beaverton City Park in 2024, the much-anticipated India Festival returns to downtown’s Pioneer Square, the festival’s home since 1994.
Celebrating its 31st year, the festival hosted by the India Cultural Association of Portland commemorates India’s Independence Day with thousands of attendees and numerous vendors.
Festival-goers can look forward to live music, classical and traditional Indian dance performances, along with a variety of South Asian street food and a bustling vendor market.
Scheduled for Sunday, August 24, from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Pioneer Square, located at 701 S.W. 6th Ave., this event is free to attend.
**Durga Puja 2025**
Prabashi Portland will celebrate its 27th annual Durga Puja with a weekend filled with worship, community gatherings, and live music.
The festivities will feature performances by talented female vocalists, with Indian classical and fusion singer Madhubanti Bagchi set to perform on October 3, followed by retropop artist Anwesha Datta Gupta on October 4.
This two-day event runs from October 3 to 4, with additional details to come at prabashi.org.
As various communities in Oregon celebrate their heritage, the opportunities to engage with the richness of South Asian culture this season are both multiple and vibrant.
image source from：oregonlive
