Romford Market came alive with colour, music and culture as Romford BID, in partnership with Havering Changing, the Havering Asian Social and Welfare Association (HASWA) and Clarion Futures, hosted a spectacular free Diwali Celebration on Sunday 19th October. Taking place from 11am to 4pm at the St Edward’s Church end of Romford Market, the family-friendly event welcomed visitors of all ages to experience the sights, sounds and traditions of one of the world’s most celebrated festivals.
A Day Filled with Culture and Entertainment
The event featured an exciting programme of live performances celebrating South Asian culture.
DJ Rav-C kept the atmosphere buzzing throughout the day with an energetic soundtrack of Bhangra, Bollywood and club classics, while Storm V Academy thrilled audiences with an impressive showcase of Bhangra and Bollywood dance. Visitors were also treated to an electrifying performance by renowned dhol drummer Tejpal Attalia, whose powerful rhythms brought the market to life. Acclaimed Bollywood singer Anami Bose, visiting from Kolkata, performed a selection of classic and contemporary favourites, before Harvey Sahota and The Harvey Sahota Live Crew closed the celebrations with an unforgettable fusion of traditional Punjabi music and modern beats.
Family Fun and Hands-On Activities
Alongside the live entertainment, there were plenty of opportunities for families to get involved.
Children and adults enjoyed free Diwali-themed arts and crafts, colourful face painting and traditional henna tattoos, while Workinglass hosted interactive glassmaking workshops, giving visitors the chance to explore both traditional and contemporary glassmaking techniques.
A Taste of South Asia
The vibrant Diwali Market offered visitors the opportunity to browse a range of authentic stalls featuring Indian street food, traditional clothing, handcrafted jewellery, handmade bags and unique gifts, creating a lively marketplace full of colour, flavour and craftsmanship.
The Electric Truck Art Experience
One of the standout attractions was the world’s first fully electric Truck Art truck – a striking celebration of South Asian culture and communities in Redbridge.
Beautifully decorated in the colourful Truck Art style, the vehicle became a focal point throughout the day, hosting creative workshops and live performances while providing countless photo opportunities for visitors.
Bringing the Community Together
The Diwali Celebration once again highlighted Romford’s vibrant and diverse community, bringing together residents and visitors to experience the traditions, creativity and spirit of Diwali.
Through a fantastic programme of live entertainment, cultural experiences and family activities, the event celebrated the richness of South Asian heritage while reinforcing Romford’s commitment to creating inclusive events that bring communities together.