Surrey was the stage for a radiant display of culture and recognition when The Times of Canada held its 14th Annual Diwali Gala & Excellence Awards on October 3, 2025 at Reflections Banquet Hall in Surrey. The event drew community leaders, artists, and residents for a night that blended tradition, performance, and community honour.
The gala, which is part of The Times’ wider Times Awards 2025 initiative, included 15 award categories, with 11 jury-nominated honors and 4 consumer choice awards recognizing excellence in business, culture, leadership, and community service. Entrants and nominees came from across the region, reflecting Surrey’s growing influence in the arts and social sectors.
The evening opened with the traditional lamp lighting ceremony, a symbolic start to festivities. It progressed into performances that ranged from classical to contemporary, showcasing dance, music, and spoken word. Across the night, attendees watched heartfelt tributes, award presentations, and networking moments that underscored the meaningful role of community recognition.
Prominent individuals in attendance included municipal and cultural leaders, business figures, and award recipients themselves. Local artists, youth performers, and dignitaries shared the stage, reinforcing the notion that events like this both honour individual achievement and strengthen cultural ties.
The gala also served as a showcase for Surrey’s capacity to host major cultural evenings. It reflected how civic spaces, arts communities, and local media can converge to spotlight innovation, heritage, and shared identity.
As the night closed, applause echoed, lights dimmed, and guests left with renewed pride in their city’s diversity and potential. The 14th Diwali Gala & Excellence Awards stands as a milestone in Surrey’s journey toward becoming a cultural hub in the Lower Mainland.
