Programs

Program Description:
Curious about the Festival of Lights? Join ChaiHouse for a warm and welcoming family experience where parents and children can discover the traditions, stories, and meaning behind Diwali together.

Through engaging storytelling, you'll learn why millions of people around the world celebrate Diwali, the significance of light over darkness, and the beautiful customs that make this festival so special.

After our interactive session, families will create festive Diwali-inspired crafts to take home and use as part of their own holiday decorations. Whether you're experiencing Diwali for the first time or looking to deepen your appreciation for its traditions, this class offers a fun, hands-on way to connect with Indian culture.

Of course, no ChaiHouse gathering would be complete without chai! Adults will enjoy a freshly brewed cup of authentic masala chai while everyone relaxes, creates, and connects in a cozy community setting.

Perfect for:
-Families with children
-Curious learners of all backgrounds
-Anyone interested in experiencing a beautiful cultural tradition
-Friends looking for a unique seasonal activity

Come sip, create, learn, and celebrate with us as we share the warmth, joy, and traditions of Diwali.

We can't wait to welcome your family to ChaiHouse!

When:
• Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 | 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Where:
• Philip Heit Center (150 W. Main St, New Albany, OH)
• Demo Kitchen on the first floor

Fee:
• $25 for the 1st registrant
• $15 for each additional registrant
*Any child attending under the age of 14 must attend with an adult.
*Each registrant will be creating their own craft.

About the Instructor:
My love for chai began in childhood, growing up in India, where chai was never just a drink — it was a ritual of care, comfort, and connection. Some of my earliest memories are of my mother making chai at 4 a.m. to keep us awake while studying for exams, or friends and relatives stopping by “just for a cup” of her chai. Even during quiet weekend visits home, I’d wake early to the familiar sound of cardamom and ginger being pounded, the aroma filling the house — only to enjoy a cup of chai and then happily go back to bed.
Watching my mother prepare chai with so much love, intention, and generosity left a lasting impression on me. She didn’t just make chai — she created moments, brought people together, and made everyone feel at home. Carrying forward that tradition and sharing that same experience is something I hold close and feel deeply proud of.
That inspiration is what led to the creation of ChaiHouse — a way to honor those memories and invite others into the warmth, stories, and connection that chai has always represented for me.