When
2pm – 7pm, Sunday 16th October 2011
Where
Trafalgar Square
Londoners are invited to get involved with spectacular Diwali celebrations in the heart of London at Diwali on the Square, bringing Diwali to Trafalgar Square in an extravagant cultural event.
The Festival of Lights
Diwali on the Square will transform Trafalgar Square with vibrant Diwali celebrations, including traditional light displays and colourful Diwali decorations. Open to all, the event promises to light up Trafalgar Square in traditional Indian style, with displays and food stalls catering to all tastes.
Music and dance
As well as lights and decorations, a full programme of performances feature at Diwali on the Square including a mixture of traditional and contemporary music and dance. This year's highlights include the chance to take part in a traditional circular dance known at the garba accompanied by live music from the Trafalgar Square stage.
Special activites at Diwali on the Square
There's also a number of special activities for both kids and families to take part in this year, with both classical and contemporary dance showcases to entertain both young and old. As 2011 marks the tenth anniversary of the free Trafalgar Square festival, you can expect even more of a vibrant atmosphere as Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Londoners of all creeds and backgrounds unite to celebrate the Festival of Lights.
Prayers and peace in London
With Diwali having strong religious significance for a cross section of Londoners, prayers for peace and other special messages will be shared by crowds present at the event. The crowds will be out in force to join the festivities in traditional style, celebrating the triumph of good and renewal of life. The word Diwali (or Deepavali) means 'row of lamps', and it is common to see lamps during the five day festival as the light symbolises the arrival of Lord Rama as he liberates Queen Sita and quashes the evil Ravana.
Diwali at London restaurants
Plenty of great restaurants are offering the chance of a celebratory meal during the Festival of Lights so revellers can treat themselves to some delicious Indian and South Asian cuisine after the lights have been lit. Click on the link below for further information on the tasty dishes on offer throughout Diwali 2011.
Diwali at London Restaurants
Diwali on the Square takes place at Trafalgar Square from 2pm - 7pm, Sunday 16th October 2011. The event is free to attend.
Diwali itself falls on Wednesday 26th October 2011. For more information on the special events taking place, click on the link below.
Diwali London