Press Release

The Festival of Light - Diwali in the Square celebrations returns to the Capital
22-9-2004   341

news release
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GLA/2004/341
Wednesday, 22 September 2004

The Festival of Light - Diwali in the Square celebrations returns to the Capital

Event:      Diwali in Trafalgar Square   
Date:      Sunday 7th November 2004
Time:      4pm – 8pm
Venue:     Trafalgar Square, London WC2
     FREE

The Mayor’s Diwali celebrations return to a specially decorated Trafalgar Square this November. The free colourful event is London's highest profile celebration of lights.  Over 20,000 people attended last year and Londoners and visitors alike are welcome to attend.

Crowds will be treated to a range of free Indian food and traditional Asian sweets, speeches from the Mayor and special guests, plus contemporary and traditional Indian dance and theatre performances.

Mayor Ken Livingstone said:
“Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates the victory of good triumphing over evil. It is a time to mark new beginnings and represents joy, reflection, resolution and forgiveness. The event is an opportunity for us all to celebrate the richness and diversity of London. Trafalgar Square will be transformed with lanterns, banners, candles and lighting. 

“Diwali in the Square will be an entertaining and educational free event for all the family. London is one of the world’s most diverse cities, and our wide variety of different faiths, races, cultures and religions is highlighted when we all come together to celebrate significant events like Diwali. I encourage everyone to attend”.

Diwali has a message of hope and optimism, it is a festival to inspire all communities. Diwali has religious significance for Hindus, Sikhs and Jains and is celebrated by many communities throughout London. Further information on Diwali is available on the website www.london.gov.uk. ends
 

Notes to Editors

1. This is the fourth Mayor of London Diwali celebration in Trafalgar Square.
2. Images of Diwali are available by contacting 020 7983 4068.

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