Celebrate Diwali by the water with our River of Lights

The event

We're hosting a free family event at the Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre on the evening of Saturday 18 October, which will involve spectacular light installations, illuminated displays on the water, as well as crafts and other activities.

As part of the celebrations, light artist, Sola, is creating a spectacular River of Lights installation flowing alongside the city’s River Soar. Thousands of LEDs will create a dramatic shimmering effect with a kaleidoscope of different colours and patterns. On the water there will be an illuminated paddleboard performance by 'Wild Women Outdoor' group. 

The evening will also give families the chance to have a go at some Diwali-inspired crafts, and Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre is offering bell boat paddle sessions and high ropes adventures at a discounted rate.

The celebration is being organised as part of the Trust’s Community Roots programme, which is being supported with funds raised from players of People’s Postcode Lottery and aims to engage communities living within 1km of the river. The programme uses activities on and beside the water to help improve health and wellbeing and connect communities, making them stronger and more resilient.

A real spectacle

Sue Willis, our engagement coordinator, said: “This event was really popular last year and we’re really looking forward to celebrating Diwali once again with the local community.

“The River of Lights will be a real spectacle, reflecting the life and vibrancy of the River Soar with its colourful narrowboats and watery wildlife. There will also be a whole host of other activities for people to do, from relaxing Diwali crafts to getting out on the water in a bell boat or climbing the centre’s high ropes.

“We hope lots of people join us to celebrate Diwali in what should be a really memorable celebration of Leicester and it’s waterways.”

Restoring The Soar

Local people will also have the chance to find out about ‘Restoring The Soar’, a partnership project between Canal & River Trust, Leicester City Council and Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust to improve the river corridor for people and wildlife between West Bridge, near the centre of Leicester, out to Watermead Park. The project has been made possible by funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and money raised by National Lottery players.

The event is taking place at Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre, Loughborough Road, Leicester LE4 5PN. There is no public parking on site so visitors are advised to use public transport where possible.