Watford Borough Council is proud to be supporting community partners to bring the Watford Festival of Lights, a joyful Diwali celebration, to the town on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 October.
The festival promises a weekend full of creativity, colour, culture, community and celebration, with events taking place at venues across Watford including the Pump House Theatre, Harlequin Event Space, Watford Palace Theatre and the Town Centre.
From vibrant cultural performances and children’s activities to delicious Indian street food and hands-on creative workshops, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Highlights include
- Children’s Diwali performance and a Hindu Civilisation Exhibition at the Pump House Theatre.
- Arts and crafts workshops where families can create rangoli, diya and bead decorations.
- Cultural performances featuring traditional Bharat Natyam dance and music.
- A spectacular parade from the Harlequin to the Pond led by Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, alongside singers, dhol players and children from Bhaktivedanta Manor School dressed as Ram, Sita and Laxman.
- The Diwali Lights Switch-On at 7pm on Saturday by Mayor Peter Taylor, marking the official close of the day’s celebrations.
- On Sunday, the Watford Palace Theatre will host the Hindu Civilisation Exhibition and a special evening production by Subrang Arts: TAALIYO NA TAALE.
Full programme of events and activities here
The Festival of Lights is being delivered in partnership with a wide range of community organisations and local businesses, including: P2M, World Council of Hindus UK, Watford Town Centre BID, Watford Palace Theatre, Indradhanushkids Academy, Salters Residential, Harlequin Watford, P2M Properties, Watford Pump House, Watford Indian Association, School of Bhakti, Museum of Watford and Bhaktivedanta Manor.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: "Diwali is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate light, hope and togetherness. I’m proud that Watford is such a diverse and welcoming town, where people of all backgrounds can come together to share in each other’s traditions. The Festival of Lights is a true community effort, and I would like to thank all our community partners for making it possible. I encourage everyone to join us for what promises to be a colourful, joyful weekend of celebration."
The event has also been made possible thanks to support from the Watford Community Fund. Applications for funding are currently closed but continues to welcome donations to ensure that support reaches those who need it most.
View more information about the Watford Community Fund here
