Date:
A celebration of new beginnings, good versus evil and the triumph of light over dark, will once again bring Woking Town Centre to life at the annual Diwali celebration, this year on Thursday 8 November 2018 from 6pm.
Meaning the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the globe. A lantern parade will process through the town, led by energetic rhythms of live music, drum beats and performance and accompanied by a sea of brightly coloured, handcrafted lanterns. These shining beacons of hope have been created by community groups with the help of Surrey Art School. A step-by-step manual is available to downloaded from the Celebrate Woking website for those who want to make their own lantern at home to join the parade with.
The lantern parade will start at 6pm from Gloucester Square (outside the Civic Offices), making its way into Jubilee Square, through the shopping centres and along Commercial Way. It will then head along Church Street East, towards The Fiery Bird, where the Diwali inspired celebrations will continue at a free to attend celebration event.
Officially opening at 7.30pm, the Diwali celebration event will be popular and entry is on a first come, first served basis. Indian music and performances from local community groups will entertain the guests and traditional food will be available to buy.
Speaking about the event, Cllr Colin Kemp, Woking Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Cultural and Community Development, said: “We are thrilled that Woking Town Centre will once again host such a wonderful, colourful community event. Diwali is an occasion that will delight everyone who attends. The universal themes of good versus evil and light overcoming the dark can resonate with anyone, no matter what race or religion you are.
“We can all use this joyful celebration to reflect on the new beginnings that we might like to see as another year draws ever nearer its close.
“I encourage everyone to come along and join in the fun. Don’t forget to prepare by making your very own Diwali lantern.”
For more information about parade and to download the 'How to make a lantern' manual, please visit www.celebratewoking.info/Diwali
Diwali is supported by The Art of Living, Surrey Hindu Cultural Association, Sayapatri Nepali Cultural Group, Surrey Art Academy, Surrey Area Telugu Association, Woking Malayalee Association and Woking Borough Council.