Vidya Sethuraman
India Post News Service
FREMONT, CALIFORNIA: The Federation of Indo-Americans of Northern California (FOG) hosted a spectacular FOG Holi – Festival of Colors 2026, drawing thousands of attendees from across the Bay Area to Washington High School in Fremont for one of the region’s largest Holi celebrations on March 7.
Holi, one of India’s most beloved festivals, symbolizes the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil, and the spirit of unity and forgiveness. Traditionally celebrated by playing with colors, sharing sweets, and gathering with family and friends, the festival represents joy, renewal, and community harmony.
The festival brought together families, students, and professionals for a joyful day filled with vibrant colors, music, dance, food, and cultural festivities. The venue came alive as participants celebrated the spirit of Holi spreading happiness, friendship, and community unity.
In recent years, Holi has increasingly become a mainstream cultural celebration across the United States, embraced not only by the Indian diaspora but also by people from diverse communities who are drawn to its message of unity, happiness, and inclusivity. The FOG Holi celebration demonstrated how Indian culture continues to make a meaningful impact in the multicultural fabric of the Bay Area.
A major highlight of this year’s celebration was the strong participation of the young Indo-American community, who enthusiastically embraced the festival with color play, live DJ music, cultural performances, and social activities. The energy and excitement of the younger generation reflected how traditional Indian festivals continue to thrive among the next generation in the United States.
FOG chairman Dr Romesh Japra and President Rajesh Verma expressed their sincere gratitude to the generous sponsors whose support made the celebration possible.
Annual Gold Sponsors:
MTR Foods, Eastern, Vadilal
Annual Silver Sponsors:
Spare the Air, Royal, Daawat (Exclusive Rice Partner), InstaService, Integrated India
Holi Gold Sponsors and Community Partners:
Elisa Márquez (Alameda County Supervisor District 2), David Haubert (Alameda County Supervisor), CEFCU, Bites, Ashoka, Weee! Indian, National Retail Solutions, Abound by The Times of India, Sling, Renewal by Andersen, Realm+
Media & Radio Partners:
ePadosi, Radio Zindagi 1550 AM, Sumo 87.7 FM
“Seeing thousands of people celebrating together in such a colorful and joyful atmosphere is a testament to the strength and unity of our community,” said Dr Japra. “We are grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who helped make this Holi celebration truly memorable,” said Rajesh Verma.
With over three decades of community leadership, FIA continues to organize large cultural events that celebrate Indian heritage and bring communities together across Northern California.
The event was also honored by the presence of many elected officials and community leaders from cities across the Bay Area, including representatives from **Fremont, Sunnyvale, San Jose, Newark, Santa Clara, and Milpitas, as well as officials from Alameda County, highlighting the strong civic support and recognition for the Indo-American community and its cultural celebrations.
Following the success of Holi, FOG is now preparing for its flagship cultural event, the 34th Festival of India – Mela & Parade, scheduled for August 15–16, 2026 in Fremont, which is expected to draw tens of thousands of attendees.
photo credits: poisandpixels
