A new kind of Diwali, blending tradition with modern festival energy
Every year, South Asians around the world celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.
But what happens when you bring that spirit of light into a modern, urban nightlife setting?
Tham Collective asked themselves, “How can we give our community a Diwali experience, but at the same time make it feel modern? We cannot light real lamps or fireworks inside a dance floor. Hmmm… Looks like there is a way we can make this happen.” 💡
That’s how Neon Diyas was born, a fusion of tradition, art, and modern dance floor energy. Drawing inspiration from Diwali lamps (“diyas”) and transforming them into neon experiences, this event reimagines how the community comes together to celebrate.
On Sunday, October 26, 2025, 6 to 11 PM, LUSH Lounge & Theater in Minneapolis will glow with neon lights, Indian beats, and cultural creativity, making this the first event of its kind in Minnesota, and possibly anywhere.
Why “Minnesota’s First Neon Diwali Dance Party”
We did our research.
Minnesota has seen beautiful Diwali dinners, temple celebrations, and cultural showcases, but never a neon-themed Diwali dance party designed as an immersive experience.
- 🔆 No Fire, Only Glow: Since open flames aren’t allowed in venues, we’re lighting up the night with neon wristbands, glowing accessories, and UV art.
- 🎶 Cultural Beats Meet Club Energy: Expect an electric mix of Hindi and South Indian tracks (at times mixed with modern house and EDM)
- 👗 Tradition With a Twist: Attendees are encouraged to wear traditional outfits with neon flair, think saree with sneakers, kurta with LED trim. It’s an optional dress code.
- 🪩 Interactive Experiences: From digital diyas to light installations, we’re using design and tech to let people celebrate, play, and connect.
This isn’t just a party. It’s a creative statement about how culture evolves with community.
Designed by the community, for the community
Neon Diyas is organized by Tham Collective, a Minnesota-based creative studio focused on designing events with and for the community.
The idea came from conversations with locals who wanted something fun, inclusive, and culturally authentic, but different from traditional celebrations.
Every element, from the glowing décor to the music curation, has been co-created by artists, designers, and community members who call Minnesota home.
Check this blog to know how we designed Neon Diyas with the community
Why Minneapolis is the perfect canvas
Minnesota’s creative scene is thriving, from South Asian theater to indie DJs, from fashion collectives to visual art pop-ups. Neon Diyas brings these worlds together under one glowing roof, showcasing the diversity and innovation of the diaspora.
And what better place than LUSH Lounge & Theater, one of the Twin Cities’ most inclusive performance spaces, known for celebrating expression and connection.
A celebration of light, culture, and joy
At its heart, Neon Diyas is about joy, the kind that brings people together across languages, religions, and backgrounds.
It’s about reimagining what “home” feels like when you live thousands of miles from where Diwali was first celebrated.
It’s about creating new traditions and lighting them up, neon-style.
Join the Glow!!!
Neon Diyas
Minnesota’s First Neon Diwali Dance Party
📅 Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
📍 Venue: LUSH Lounge & Theater, Minneapolis
Follow us on Instagram @thamcollective for behind-the-scenes videos, outfit inspo, and community stories.
Let’s make this Diwali a night where every diya glows brighter together.