The free event from noon to 6pm on Saturday (October 25) has plenty for the whole family to enjoy.
Here’s what’s on offer:
Food
Diwali in Middlesbrough will have street vendors from all over the UK offering a wide selection of sweet and savoury delights as well as ethnic fashion and fabrics and a whole host of other stalls.
Entertainment
Back-to-back main stage entertainment including desi beats and funky music by DJ Vee Kooner, live duo Jazz and Nichelle from Bollywood Singers UK, an traditional Indian drumming and award-winning headliner Juggy D.
Funfair
Rides for both adults and children along with lots of other free arts and craft activity for the little ones to get involved in.
Fireworks
Spectacular Bollywood-themed Firework Finale will light up the sky for all to see.
Free activities
From Diwali lantern making to rangoli designs, and drumming workshops to dancing, there’s lots of things to get involved in that won’t cost a penny and keep the kids entertained.
Diwali is a festival of light, colour and new beginnings, celebrating the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.
The Middlesbrough celebration is delivered by the same team who organise the renowned Middlesbrough Mela.
Event organiser Kash Patel said: “Diwali is about coming together with family and friends and embracing the values that Diwali represents such as gratitude, joy and hope for the future.
“It’s an event open to all regardless of faith so come and join us on the day and celebrate our diversity whilst strengthening our unity.”
Last year’s event saw thousands enjoy the festivities in Centre Square, with this year’s event promising to be even bigger.
Councillor Philippa Storey, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Education & Culture, said: “Diwali is back bigger and better than ever, and the countdown to Saturday is well and truly under way.
“It’s the sort of family-friendly event that Middlesbrough does so well, and the team have done an amazing job to deliver a world-class programme.
“There really is something for everyone, so come along to Centre Square and join in the fun on what promises to be a very special day.”
Diwali in Middlesbrough is free, and produced with support from Arts Council England and sponsors including Unison.
• Diwali in Middlesbrough is on Saturday, October 25 in Centre Square from noon to 6pm. The event is free for everyone, no tickets are required.
For more information and to stay up to date with the latest news and announcements follow the Diwali in Middlesbrough Facebook page.
