Thousands of people across Nottinghamshire are celebrating Diwali, the religious festival of light.
The festival is five days long with different events everyday. Although mainly celebrated by Nottingham’s Sikh, Hindu and Jain communities, the festival’s local events are known for being open to all.
One of the biggest events is being planned by Nottingham Lakeside Arts at Highfields Park on Saturday. The event starts at 3pm and ends at 8pm.
Abhi Pawar, a Hindu student at Nottingham Trent University, said: “My family and I do celebrate Diwali and I enjoy doing different activities on each day, I do miss the traditions but Nottingham has got lots of events this year which make it feel like home.
“My favourite part of Diwali is eating the tasty food, dressing up nice and spending time with my friends and family.”
There will be a range of performances at Highfields Park, including free music and dance performances, traditional Indian food and sweets.
Picture: SS1981, Festival of light celebration
The event will end with a parade of lights led by the Dohl Drummers, featuring local school children and members from the community.
Then on Sunday, November 15 the New Art Exchange will be hosting its own Diwali day between 10am and 3pm.
More information is available on the Lakeside Arts and New Art Exchange websites.
Meanwhile, Notts Police are warning families who are planning on heading out for the festival to check their security.
Burglars have been known to target Asian families around Diwali, looking for the gold jewellery many people wear to celebrate the event.
Gurmit Kaur, Nottinghamshire Police Community Cohesion Inspector, said: “We do not want you to stop wearing your jewellery but please try to be discreet in public places, where there are a lot of people around.
“Whether it’s at home or on your person, be aware that while it is of great sentimental value to you, it is simply cash value to thieves.”
