I've been told that The India Community Center of Rochester hosts a fantastic Diwali festival, but have sadly never experienced it. That's why I'm excited that the ICC will soon celebrate its 25th anniversary with 10 days of free and ticketed events that include musical concerts and dance performances, comedy, exhibits, and my favorite food in the world.

From Friday, September 10, through Sunday, September 19, you can head over to the ICC at 2171 Monroe Wayne County Line Road in Macedon and take your pick of the cultural and educational events offered throughout the celebration. For a full list visit iccrochester.org, but highlights include free admission Saturday, September 11, and Sunday, September 12, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. to an exhibition of Indian art, history, customs, industry, technology, and food, with entertainment, food stations, rides, and games. That same weekend you can check out "Decades of Bollywood" presented by Bollywood Dance Mania at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 6 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $22 for adults and $10 for children under 18.

Wrap up the celebration by attending the banquet on either Saturday, September 18, or Sunday, September 19, 6-10 p.m. The evening's program includes a social hour, speeches and reflections, dinner, and a comedy show by Dan Nainan. Tickets for the banquet are $100 each and include admission to one of each of the other ticketed events. Seating is limited, so RSVP soon by calling Mythreyi Srinivasan at 264-8992 or Jose Maliekal at 244-1760.