Never been to Nagar Kirtan? You’re welcome!
Abbotsford’s annual Nagar Kirtan brings thousands of people together for a day of faith, food, music, seva and community. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
When & Where
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Gurdwara Sahib Kalgidhar Darbar
30640 Blueridge Drive, Abbotsford
|
8:00–10:00 a.m. |
Kirtan (religious hymns) |
|
10:00–10:30 a.m. |
Hukamnama & Ardaas (prayers) |
|
Approx. 11:00 a.m. |
Nagar Kirtan procession begins |
|
Approx. 4:00 p.m. |
Procession returns to the Gurdwara |
|
From 5:00 p.m. |
Kirtan and Katha |
|
Approx. 9:00 p.m. |
Final Ardaas |
Route & Road Closures
Rolling road closures will be in effect from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Most locations along the route are expected to be closed for approximately two hours as the procession passes, with longer closures expected on Blueridge Drive near the Gurdwara.
The route travels along portions of Blueridge Drive, Townline Road, Southern Drive, Sandpiper Drive and Goldfinch Street.
Drivers should follow posted signs and traffic-control directions and use alternate routes during
the procession.
Taking Transit?
Bus service in the area will be disrupted during the event. Check BC Transit for scheduled bus
rerouting before travelling.
Parking — Arrive Early
Parking is available at the Gurdwara and the church across the street, but spaces are limited.
If you hope to use one of these lots, arrive early and before the procession begins at
approximately 11:00 a.m. Once the lots are full, visitors will need to find permitted street
parking in the surrounding area.
Taking Transit?
Bus service in the area will be disrupted during the event. Check BC Transit for scheduled bus
rerouting before travelling.
Parking — Arrive Early
Parking is available at the Gurdwara and the church across the street, but spaces are limited.
If you hope to use one of these lots, arrive early and before the procession begins at
approximately 11:00 a.m. Once the lots are full, visitors will need to find permitted street
parking in the surrounding area.
Pay close attention to parking restrictions. Vehicles parked illegally, including near driveways,
fire hydrants or in designated no-parking areas, may be ticketed or towed.
Everyone Is Welcome
You don’t need to be Sikh to attend Nagar Kirtan. People of all backgrounds are welcome to
experience the procession, listen to kirtan, enjoy the food and learn more about Sikh traditions.
Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with what you’re seeing. Come respectfully, observe and feel
free to ask questions.
What Should I Wear?
For the outdoor procession, wear comfortable, respectful clothing and good walking shoes.
If entering the Gurdwara, visitors should cover their head and remove their shoes. A limited
number of head coverings are available, so consider bringing your own bandana or scarf.
Food, Langar & Seva
Food and refreshments will be shared at the Gurdwara and along the procession route, and everyone is welcome to accept what is offered.
Sharing food is connected to Sikh traditions of Vand Chhako, langar and seva — sharing with and serving others.
Food, Langar & Seva
Food and refreshments will be shared at the Gurdwara and along the procession route, and everyone is welcome to accept what is offered.
Sharing food is connected to Sikh traditions of Vand Chhako, langar and seva — sharing with and serving others.
A Few Things to Remember
Nagar Kirtan is a community celebration, but it is also a religious procession. Be respectful as
the procession passes, follow the direction of volunteers, keep the route clear and respect private property along the procession route.
When entering the Gurdwara, remember to cover your head and remove your shoes.
Bringing the Family?
Children are welcome. Expect large crowds and plenty of walking, and keep young children
close. Washrooms are available at the Gurdwara and on the Gurdwara grounds, but not along the
parade route.
Bringing the Family?
Children are welcome. Expect large crowds and plenty of walking, and keep young children
close. Washrooms are available at the Gurdwara and on the Gurdwara grounds, but not along the
parade route.
Accessibility
The procession travels along paved public roads, while the Gurdwara is equipped with
elevators for visitors who may have difficulty using stairs.
Those with mobility concerns may want to arrive early and stay closer to the Gurdwara rather
than travelling along the full procession route.
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