AIA SWADES 2026: San Jose Free India Day Parade & Festival Guide

The free festival at Plaza de Cesar Chavez will run from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., with the Multinational Parade scheduled from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Day & Night Mela will feature a Historic Flag Walk and Tiranga Walk, a food festival, a shopping marketplace, live cultural performances, a fashion show, and an interactive Kids Zone.

Bollywood actress Taapsee Pannu will serve as the Honorable Guest and Grand Marshal, leading key proceedings and engaging with attendees. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan and Dr. Srikar Reddy, the Consul General of India in San Francisco, will attend as Chief Guests, underscoring the bilateral ties between the two nations and the contributions of Silicon Valley's South Asian community.

Organizers said AIA SWADES has become a central gathering point for Indian Americans across generations, offering a shared space to celebrate heritage, art, music, and community spirit. The event commemorates the 250th anniversary of US independence and the 80th anniversary of India's independence.

Admission is free, but organizers encourage attendees to register in advance for complimentary Mela tickets at www.aiaevents.org.