Festival of the Chariots - Los Angeles Hotels .com

The Festival of the Chariots is held to celebrate Lord Jagannatha, the Lord of the Universe, and dates back thousands of years to Jagannatha Puri, India. If you aren't familiar with the Lord of the Universe, don't worry; you're not alone.

This fun festival attracts huge crowds for its elaborately decorated, four-story chariots, and colorful, costumed parade packed with singing, chanting, dancing, flower-throwing, and bell-ringing participants.

Hosted by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness on the first Sunday in August, the festival parade begins at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium at 10 a.m. and proceeds down Main Street, culminating at the Ocean Front Walk Plaza with a delicious (and free!) vegetarian feast, entertainment, and exhibits of Indian culture.

Along with the free feast meant to feed 20,000 visitors, there are plenty of food vendors to choose from, as well as free yoga and meditation demonstrations, and exhibits on reincarnation and animal rights.

Visitors concerned with being force-fed Hare Krishna teachings needn't worry. This festival is a celebration, not a religious membership drive, so relax and enjoy the dancers, drummers, and "mantra rock" bands that fill the afternoon with mellow beats.

URL: http://www.festivalofchariots.com