The Hindu festival of light returns to the streets of Chester on Saturday 15th October.
The Diwali festival – organised by the Sanjhi Indian Association – starts at midday with a colourful parade from the Town Hall Square to Eastgate Street, where there’ll be a display of traditional Indian dancing at 12.30pm.
The Lord Mayor of Chester, Cllr John Leather will officially start the celebrations.
He said: “I am looking forward to welcoming the dancers and musicians to Chester to celebrate Diwali, the festival of light.
“Please come along to enjoy the spectacle and join the dancers when they invite the audience to dance along.”
Sarika Kaushik, chair of Sanjhi Indian Association, said: “Diwali is an international festival celebrated across the world. We are delighted to share these celebrations in Chester.
“I’d like to thank our sponsors – our Diwali celebration wouldn’t be possible without their contribution.”
After the parade and celebrations in Eastgate Street, the festival continues at the Chester Unity Centre on Cuppin Street where public workshops will be held (2-4pm).
There will also be henna hand painting, face painting, diya making, Diwali art, Indian food, Indian craft stalls.
Festival of Diwali
Start: Midday, Town Hall Square
Dances: 12.30pm, Eastgate Street
Programme
- Dance – Children under 11 years by Suchitra Sharma and Group
- Semi Classical dance- Sai Mayur dance school, Chester
- Bollywood dance medley – Ladies group
- Bollywood dance medley – Lalitas Namastey India, Northwich
- Bollywood dance medley – Bolly Muvs, Chester
- Workshops (2-4pm), Chester Unity Centre
