By Molly Snyder Senior Writer Published Jun 16, 2025 at 11:31 AM

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Milwaukee will celebrate the sights, sounds and flavors of India when the first "Incredible India Festival" kicks off on Saturday, July 12, at the Henry Maier Festival Park, from noon to 7 p.m. 

The one-day, family-friendly celebration invites people of all backgrounds to experience the richness and diversity of Indian traditions on the shores of Lake Michigan. Adult admission is $10, and kids 12 and under are free.

The activities include folk dances, classical music, artisan crafts, henna, yoga and, of course, incredible food. There will also be a games arena where you can try your luck at classic Indian board games and more, playing against senior citizens from India. The event will conclude with a celebration of Holi and the traditional throwing of colors.

“Milwaukee is known for its vibrant summer festivals, and we’re proud to bring the magic of India to the lakefront,” says Shefali Vallecha, India Fest organizer. “This is a unique opportunity for the community to come together and explore Indian culture in an authentic, engaging and joyful way.”

Festival Highlights Include:

  • Folk and Classical Dance and Singing Showcases
  • Indian Cuisine featuring samosas, biryani, chai, and more
  • Marketplace with Indian dresses, jewelry, henna body art and handmade goods
  • Cultural Workshops, including yoga, rangoli and a cricket photo op
  • Kid’s Area with crafts and kids water balloon fight and a big playground
  • Holi Celebration with the throwing of colors

“I’m very excited to have been asked to join this event," says co-organizer Dan Peña. “I love travelling in India, and I think this new festival will make a great addition to the many summer events that make Milwaukee the City of Festivals.”

For information, go to www.sanskritiusa.org or follow @IncredibleIndiaMKE on social media.


Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.

Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.