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Youth-led Kirtan Fest in Houston returns after hiatus

More than 2,300 gather for Flower Festival on Radhastami, marking the largest such event in North America.

Kirtan festival youth organisers. / Vijay Pallod

Kirtan Fest Houston 2025 was held over three days at ISKCON Houston last week, drawing more than 2,500 attendees for a youth-led celebration of music, devotion, and service. Organized entirely by the temple’s younger members, the festival marked its revival after a long hiatus.

The centerpiece of the event was the Flower Festival on Sunday evening, coinciding with Radhastami, the appearance day of Srimati Radharani. According to organizers, over 2,300 people attended the celebration, making it the largest Flower Festival in North America. More than 30,000 flowers were offered in a traditional abhishek, showering the deities and participants alike.

Across the weekend, the program included 31 hours of kirtan, led by musicians from around the world. Organizers said the chanting created a spiritual setting that welcomed people from diverse backgrounds while maintaining the character of Houston’s temple community.

 

 

Across the weekend, the program included 31 hours of kirtan, led by musicians from around the world. / Vijay Pallod

Hospitality was a central part of the festival, with more than 4,200 meals served to visitors. Volunteers managed food preparation and distribution, while youth members coordinated logistics. Organizers said this reflected ISKCON Houston’s emphasis on service as an integral part of devotion.

Merchandise at the event sold out quickly, with 80 percent purchased on the first day. Beyond those in attendance, organizers reported over 90,000 social media impressions during the festival, extending participation virtually.

“This year’s festival was an offering of gratitude to the temple and the culture that shaped our childhoods,” said the youth organizers, noting that the event’s revival was intended to reaffirm their commitment to sustaining traditions for future generations.

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