READING is set to mark Diwali with a festival of light and sound next weekend.
Reading BID and Kala the Arts have partnered up to bring the return Diwali Light It Up, with this year’s festival carrying the theme ‘Devi – Light and Earth.’
The theme is set to honour the strength and beauty of the goddess and the natural world.
The evening begins with a community stage performance at 4.15pm in Town Hall Square, followed by a Lantern Parade from 5:30 to 6:30 PM, travelling down Broad Street and ending near the Halifax Bank.
Local schools, artists and community groups will join professional dancers and musicians, while 17-foot puppets of Sita, Rama, Ganesh and friends tower above the crowd, accompanied by striking lanterns, dazzling costumes and live dhol drummers.
Audiences can expect South Asian dance traditions such as Kathak, Odissi, Bharatanatyam and more, alongside contemporary styles, creating a vibrant spectacle that celebrates Reading’s diversity.
Alexa Volker, Reading BID Manager, said: “Diwali Light It Up is one of the highlights of Reading’s cultural calendar.
“It brings together residents, businesses and visitors in a joyful, inclusive celebration that lights up our streets and showcases the incredible diversity and creativity within our community.”
Sushmita Pati, Artistic Director & Curator, Kala The Arts, said: “Diwali is not just a religious festival, it’s a celebration of light and the joy, hope and security it brings to all our lives.
This year’s Diwali Light It Up parade, themed Devi – Symbolising Light and Earth, will fill Reading’s streets with colour and sound.
“With support from Arts Council England and Reading BID, we’re thrilled to create an annual tradition that unites our vibrant community.”
Diwali Light It Up takes place in Reading Town Centre from 4pm on Saturday, October 18.
The event is free and family-friendly, with more information available via: kalathearts.co.uk/whats-on/diwali-light-it-up
