Culture & celebrations
Festivals, music, dance, and food bring our heritage to life. Our Diwali celebration is one way we share that joy with Amherst.
Explore celebrationsConnecting everyone
A place to belong.
A culture to share.
We’re the Amherst Indian Association. Bringing neighbours together through Indian culture, shared celebrations, and the everyday joy of community.
Rooted in Indian heritage.
Open to every background.
Culture brings us closer.
✳ Celebrate our culture✳ Welcome our neighbours✳ Build lasting connections
Our story
Indian heritage.
A shared home.
Proud to be part of Amherst, Nova Scotia.
A community begins when people feel welcome.
Amherst Indian Association brings people together to celebrate the traditions, creativity, and diversity of India while building friendships here in Amherst. Our shared experiences make room for familiar faces, new neighbours, and the next generation.
From a festive evening of food and dance to a conversation that helps someone feel at home, we believe meaningful connections grow when we show up for one another.
Whether you have recently arrived or have called Amherst home for years, we welcome you to take part.
Our mission
To connect people.
To celebrate culture.
To strengthen community.
We create opportunities for people in Amherst to come together through Indian culture, shared experiences, and community participation—building a sense of belonging and lasting friendships.
01
BelongingEveryone deserves a warm welcome.
02
Cultural connectionOur traditions grow when we share them.
03
Community careWe make time for one another.
Programs & participation
Ways we come together.
Culture, connection, and a shared place in our community. These are the areas at the heart of AIA.
Community connections
Meet neighbours, share experiences, and find familiar faces. We welcome conversations that help people feel connected to their community.
Find your connectionsYouth & family participation
Shared celebrations make space for families and younger generations to explore their heritage, express their talents, and take part.
Ask about taking partVolunteering & community care
Bring your time, practical skills, or a new idea. Helping with a community event is a meaningful way to meet people and contribute.
Find a way to helpHave an idea for a workshop or community activity? We’d love to hear it.
Share your ideaEvents & memories
Good times.
Stronger connections.
A look back at what we’ve shared—and what we’re looking forward to.
Latest updates on Facebook (opens in a new tab)Showing 2 events.
Coming this November
Diwali Celebration 2026
Let’s celebrate together. Join us in looking forward to a celebration of culture, tradition, and togetherness with the Amherst community.
Stay tuned for the exact date, time, venue, and ticket details.
See the Diwali announcement 
A community memoryTHE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTSDiwali 2025
An evening of light & connection
Our Diwali celebration brought people together for cultural performances, Indian food, music, dancing, and a warm sense of community.
Look back at Diwali 2025For photographs from our celebrations, visit AIA’s Diwali photo album (opens in a new tab) ↗. The lamp artwork on this site is decorative.
Community support
A friendly place
to start.
New to Amherst? Looking for a familiar face, a local connection, or a way to take part?
Reach out to AIA to start a conversation. Tell us what you’re looking for, and we can explore ways to connect you with association activities and the wider community.
Say hello to AIAAround Amherst
Useful local connections
These independent organizations offer information and services in our area.
YMCA YREACHNewcomer information, orientation, and settlement support.Opens in a new tabTown of AmherstLocal events, community information, and municipal services.Opens in a new tabYMCA of CumberlandExplore recreation, wellness, and community programs.Opens in a new tabBe part of the story
Our community grows
with you.
Come along, lend a hand, share a talent, or help make the next celebration possible.
Join the community
Introduce yourself, hear about upcoming activities, and find opportunities to take part.
Introduce yourselfVolunteer your time
Help with event preparation, welcoming guests, activities, or the practical work behind a celebration.
Email to volunteerShare your talent
Bring your music, dance, creativity, or a workshop idea to the conversation.
Tell us about your ideaSupport an event
Explore sponsorship or in-kind support that helps bring people together.
Discuss supportA few helpful answers
You’re welcome here.
Do I need to be Indian to take part?
People of every background are welcome. AIA celebrates Indian heritage while creating opportunities for neighbours across Amherst to connect.
How can I find out about upcoming events?
Check the events section and follow our Facebook page for announcements. You can also email us to ask about the next celebration or activity.
Can I suggest a program or offer to help?
Yes. Tell us about your idea, talent, or availability by email. We can discuss how it might fit an upcoming event or future community activity.
Who can I ask about newcomer services?
AIA is a place to connect with the community. For dedicated settlement information and support, explore the YMCA YREACH program (opens in a new tab) listed in our local resources.
Let’s connect
Every connection
starts with hello.
Questions about an event? Want to volunteer?
Have an idea for our community? We’d love to hear from you.
Email the associationamherstindianassociation@gmail.com Follow Amherst Indian Association (opens in a new tab)
Call us902-694-4975
Find usAmherst, Nova Scotia
Email links open your email app so you can send your message directly to AIA.