We're hosting the family event at the Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre on Saturday 26 October. As part of the celebrations, light artist, Sola, is creating a shimmering LED Waterfall of Lights that will cascade next to the River Soar, with colourful lights reflected onto the surface of the water.
The evening, which is free to enter, also promises music, an illuminated paddleboard session by the 'Wild Women Outdoor' group, as ,well as Diwali-inspired crafts. Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre are offering bell boat paddle sessions and high ropes adventures at a discounted rate of £6 per person. Community group, Sewaday, will be supporting with activities and Leicester City in the Community will be hosting special Diwali wood whittling craft sessions.
Join our art workshops
In the run-up to the event, we're holding art workshops, on 23, 24 and 25 October, where local people can help to decorate recycled bottles which will be illuminated for the event. The workshops are being held at Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre between 11am and 12.30pm each day and, as spaces are limited, visitors need to book ahead.
The celebration is being organised as part of the charity’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.
The charity has also received additional support for the event from Assured Energy, a leading independent business energy consultancy, based in Leicester City Centre.
An amazing spectacle
Kelly Alcock, community events coordinator, said: “This event promises to an amazing spectacle, bringing the River Soar to life with a kaleidoscope of colourful lights.
“It will also be a fantastic community occasion, helping to create lasting memories for families by encouraging them to experience being in nature, by water while enjoying the life and colour of Diwali.
“As a charity, we’re really grateful to the sponsors and community partners that have made the event possible, and we can’t wait to welcome local people along.”
Hayley Smitham Hopewell, from Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre, said: “Diwali is such a special time and we’re really looking forward to welcoming people to the centre for what should be a magical evening. There’s lots of activities, both on the water and on dry land so a great opportunity to get the family together and celebrate in a beautiful waterside setting.”
