Green, white, and full of heart: Independence Day 2024 at Balboa Park

On a bright Saturday in August, Balboa Park turned green and white. Families wearing flags and pins filled the plaza for House of Pakistan's Pakistan Independence Day celebration. It was an afternoon of music, poetry, and pride that belonged, above all, to our young people.

After weeks of auditions and rehearsals, the youth finalists took the stage. The national anthem rang out on violin. A patriotic speech reminded us what our parents and grandparents carried with them. Two group performances, "Dil Say Pakistan" and "Pasoori," had the whole crowd singing along.

We were honored to welcome Asim Ali Khan, Consul General of Pakistan in Los Angeles; Farrah N. Khan, Mayor of Irvine; and Ali Sajjad Taj, President of the League of California Cities, along with community leaders and poets. Community members were recognized for their service, and local artists performed live music.

None of it happens without our sponsors (GTR Reality Management Inc., SAP Healthcare & Pharmaceutical City, KIND Home Loan, and Mamta Wellness), our vendors, including Kababish and Casa Lahori, and VERIFY: dozens of volunteers. Thank you.