Thousands filled up the streets of Kent and gathered at the accesso ShoWare Center for the annual Khalsa Day Celebration and Parade.
The May 17 event honored Vaisakhi, a major Sikh festival commemorating the formation of the Khalsa in 1699 and drew attendees from across the Pacific Northwest, according to a press release from Kent City Council President Satwinder Kaur, the first Sikh woman elected to the council.
“It’s remarkable for Washingtonians of all ages to come together and recognize a community that has made significant contributions to the state for over a century,” Kaur said.
The celebration began at 10 a.m. with a dynamic program featuring traditional hymns and prayers, cultural exhibits, food stalls and speeches from community leaders, Kaur said. Attendees experienced Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art, and shared in Langar, a free vegetarian meal offered to all—symbolizing the Sikh principles of equality, service and community.
Kaur said the highlight of the day was the Nagar Kirtan, a spirited Sikh religious procession through the streets of Kent. Participants sang devotional hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the central scripture of Sikhism, creating an atmosphere of reverence and joy. The procession, Kaur said, reflected the Sikh community’s rich cultural heritage and its longstanding values of inclusion and service.
Dignitaries and local leaders who attended included Democratic State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti; state Sen. Manka Dhingra, D-Redmond; state Reps. Chris Stearns, D-Auburn; Mia Gregerson, D-SeaTac; Edwin Obras, D-SeaTac; Janice Zahn, D-Bellevue; King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci; Kent Mayor Dana Ralph; Kent City Councilmember Toni Troutner; Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus; AuburnCity Councilmember Hanan Amer; Renton Mayor Armondo Pavone; and Renton City Councilmember James Alberson.
Sikh presence in the Pacific Northwest dates back to 1897, with early immigrants working in agriculture, railroads and lumber mills, Kaur said. Despite challenges, including the 1907 Bellingham riots, the Sikh community endured and grew—particularly after immigration reforms in the mid-20th century.
Today, over 50,000 Sikhs reside in Washington, with strong roots in cities like Kent and Renton, Kaur said.
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Renton Mayor Armono Pavone, left, Kent Mayor Dana Ralph and Kent City Council President Satwinder Kaur participated in Khalsa Day. COURTESY PHOTO, Satwinder Kaur
