McKinney, Texas -- City of McKinney employees gathered Thursday to celebrate Diwali, one of the Hindu culture's oldest and most important festivals. Employees learned the history and traditions of the holiday and took part in lighting lanterns, creating rangolis with colored sand, and eating traditional Indian food.

This celebration is part of the city's efforts to make a more inclusive workplace, educate employees and bring people together to share their unique stories and backgrounds.

The city recently held an employee seminar in celebration of Juneteenth and a discussion of women's rights to mark the 101st anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment. Next week, the city will hold a Veteran's Day event for employees.

Community Diwali Celebration

The John & Judy Gay Library will hold a community-wide Diwali celebration 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6. There will be a rangoli demonstration where an artist will create intricate floor art with colored sand, henna tattoos, traditional dancers, arts and crafts, and food for the entire family.