Sadiq Khan announces Diwali in the Square celebrations for London

Sadiq Khan has announced that the annual Diwali on the Square festivities will be held in Trafalgar Square on Sunday, 29 October, offering a plethora of family-friendly entertainment.

This celebration of the Festival of Lights will bring together Londoners and individuals from across the globe in the heart of the city, offering a diverse range of dance, music, activities, and food from 1-7 p.m., a press release from the mayor’s office said.

This non-ticketed event, provided in collaboration with the Diwali in London committee and sponsored by Remitly, promises an engaging experience.

The committee, led by volunteers, plays a pivotal role in curating the event's programme and consists of a diverse group of community leaders.

The event kicks off with 200 vibrantly attired dancers, followed by performances by artists representing London's Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities.

Attendees will be able to enjoy various market stalls and activities, including dance workshops, yoga, meditation, Ramayana Puppet shows, Soho Theatre comedy, and the Glimpse of Goddesses stall, where visitors can learn more about Hindu goddesses, sari, and turban tying.

This year's event will also feature the Diwali Queen and a series of dance performances presented by 'Kalasetu,' a collaborative project between Subrang Arts and Kinetika commissioned on behalf of This is Croydon, the mayor's London Borough of Culture 2023.

Additionally, a variety of south Asian food stalls will serve delectable traditional and fusion, vegan, and vegetarian cuisine.

Khan expressed his delight about the event, emphasising its significance in London's cultural calendar and its role in celebrating diversity.

He said, “I’m delighted that Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds will once again be joining together for a fantastic family-friendly afternoon of entertainment to mark the symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. By celebrating our city’s diversity, we are building a better, fairer, more prosperous London for everyone.”

Sanjay Gadhvi, Iskcon, Chair of Diwali in London Committee 2023, extended his wishes for peace and harmony, marking the 22nd year of Diwali on Trafalgar Square.

Furthermore, professor Ray Lloyd, CEO of Global Banking School (GBS) and Diwali on the Square’s presenting partner, highlighted their support for the event, and said that it aligns with their values of celebrating community diversity.