Makar Sankranti, a joyous harvest festival, holds a special place in the hearts of many, especially in the Indian community. Celebrated on January 15, 2024, this auspicious day is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, marking the sun's northward transit and it also signifies the end of winter. It's a day when the length of the day starts to increase, symbolising new beginnings and the hope of a bountiful harvest.
Video Credit: Flavours of Happiness/YouTube
Traditionally, eating Dahi Chura on this day is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. Across the globe, including in the United States, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with much enthusiasm, following the rich cultural heritage of India.
In various US cities, this festival has taken on a local flavour, where traditional rituals merge with contemporary celebrations. Let’s explore how five American cities are keeping the spirit of Makar Sankranti alive, along with the places where you can have delightful Indian sweets, adding sweetness to the festivities.
5 US Cities To Celebrate The Harvest Festival In Style
Chicago
In Chicago, the Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts becomes a hub of cultural extravaganza on Makar Sankranti. Being a part of this festival, one can experience the essence of the festival with vibrant decorations, traditional music, and dance performances. The highlight is the array of Indian delicacies, including the quintessential Pongal dish. For those with a sweet tooth, Chicago’s Gur Sweets Bakery, Govinda's Snacks, Simply Mithai, Ajwaah Sweets, Tahoora and others offer an assortment of laddoos, halwa, kalakand and barfi, ensuring a truly sweet celebration.
Venue of Celebration: Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts, South Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL, USA.
Image Credit: India Chaat Cafe
New York
In New York, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great enthusiasm at the India Center of Westchester. The event features bonfires, lively music, traditional dance, and Punjabi folk songs, highlighted by vibrant Bhangra performances. A variety of delectable Indian sweets like Chocolate Burfi, Gulab Jamun, Laddu, and Jalebi are prepared by local sweet shops to add a dose of extra sweetness to the festive atmosphere. And you would love to be a part of an evening filled with laughter, warmth, and unforgettable memories, deeply rooted in cultural traditions.
Venue of Celebration: India Center of Westchester, 174 Brady Avenue, Hawthorne, NY 10532.
Also Read: Makar Sankranti 2024: Gokul Pithe To Puran Poli, 7 Dishes To Sweeten Your Festivities
Atlanta
Atlanta, Georgia, generally hosts a vibrant “Makar Sankranti” event, characterized by spectacular performances and kite flying. The Indian American community comes together to participate in this joyous occasion.
In addition to the festivities, Atlanta is the best place for those seeking traditional Indian sweets associated with Makar Sankranti. The city's sweet shops, such as Maruthi Foods, Royal Sweets, Gokul Sweets & Veg Restaurant, and Nathu's Sweets, offer a wide array of delectable treats. These include popular favourites like Motichur Laddu, Soan Papdi, and Badam Barfi. Other traditional sweets like Gulab Jamuns, Kaju Katli, Patishapta, Malpua, and Moya are also available, providing a taste of India's diverse culinary traditions during the festival.
Dallas
In Dallas, the Bengali community celebrates with traditional sweets like Patishapta and special dishes like khichadi. They enjoy delicacies like ghee, yam, khichdi, chaku, and sweets made of sesame and molasses following the diverse culinary practices of Makar Sankranti.
One of the highlights in Dallas is the India Chaat Cafe, renowned for its array of Indian sweets. The cafe offers traditional favourites like Gulab Jamun, Rasmalai, and Jalebi, along with unique creations such as their version of Kulfi Faluda. The quality of their sweets, particularly the light and fluffy texture of their Gulab Jamun and the strong, delicious flavour of their Rasmalai, has been famous among the locals. Precisely, it is a go-to place for anyone seeking the best Indian sweets for Makar Sankranti celebration.
Washington D.C.
During Makar Sankranti, Washington D.C. offers a culinary journey through Indian desserts at various restaurants. From the sweetened strained yogurt Srikhand at Indique to the dense milk fudge Burfi at Masala Art, the city offers a diverse range of Indian sweets. Famous places like Bombay Club and Woodlands serve Carrot Halwa, while Jyoti Indian Cuisine offers the cardamom-spiked rice pudding Kheer, all adding to the festive spirit of Makar Sankranti.
Makar Sankranti, a festival signifying renewal and joy, is celebrated with great fervour in these American cities. Whether it’s through cultural performances, traditional foods, or the sharing of sweets, each city brings its unique flavour to the celebration while presenting the diversity and richness of Indian culture in the USA.