Celebrating the festival of light
Children and young people from Darlington have created over 150 lanterns which will be on display in shops throughout the town, and used in a parade celebrating Diwali, the Hindu festival of light.
The LED lanterns created by art students from Darlington College and children from five local primary schools, will be the centre piece of a parade being led by Dhol drummers and bhangra dancers.
Diwali is a key festival within the Hindu community and is also celebrated by Sikhs and Jains worldwide. At this time of year people display lanterns to welcome people and Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, into their homes and businesses. The festival celebrates light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance; there is much feasting and celebration, including the buying and exchanging of gifts.
The lantern parade will take place on Saturday 11 November, the second day of Diwali celebrations when people traditionally decorate their homes with lamps. Starting at 4pm outside the Queen Street Shopping Centre on Northgate, the parade will take people on a gentle walk along High Row, The Yards and Skinnergate. Attendees are welcome to bring their own LED lanterns for use during the parade, however naked flames are not permitted at the event.
The family friendly parade is expected to last about twenty minutes and will finish at the Market Cross where Newcastle Building Society will be handing out specially designed, reusable cups with vouchers to get a free hot drink from local independent cafes.
Further performances from dancers and drummers are scheduled to take place after the parade in the indoor market, which has a number of stalls selling food from around the world including vegetarian cuisine. Alternatively, there are several Indian restaurants in the town centre where people can continue their Diwali celebrations.
Crafting activities, including creating Diwali lanterns and character inspired masks, will also be available in Queen Street Shopping Centre between 11am and 2pm as part of the town’s celebrations.
For more information and to find out about other upcoming events visit www.enjoydarlington.co.uk
“We are delighted to welcome members of the Hindu and other communities, to Darlington to join the town’s first Diwali Lantern parade. For Hindus, Diwali is the start of the new business year and many people say prayers to the goddess for a successful year. Darlington’s local economy is going from strength to strength and this celebration is a great way to highlight the fantastic range of high-street and independent businesses in the town; showcasing the diversity of our retail and hospitality offerings. "The town is a safe and welcoming place for people of all ages, cultures and lifestyles and this is one of many events which helps to strengthen and bond our local community.”
- Cllr Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy