Diwali, the festival of lights, will be celebrated in a free City of Wolverhampton event at Phoenix Park this Saturday (21 October, 2023).

The fun will take place between 4pm and 8.30pm at the venue off Dudley Road in Blakenhall. 

Hosted by the Shri Krishan Mandir and The Elias Mattu Foundation, the event will feature Pargan Bhindal, Sansar Maan, Hit the Dhol, Giddha Sherniya Da, Jodi Dancers, a Nepalese Dance Performance and much more. 

Following the switching on of the lights at 8pm, there will be a spectacular firework display. 

Please note, this is a new date for the event, which was due to take place last Saturday but had to be rearranged as the park was waterlogged after a period of heavy rain.

People are advised to arrive early as entry, which is free, will be on a first come, first served, basis. Once capacity has been reached, the gates will shut and a one in, one out system will be in operation.

Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Visitor City, said: "This is a fantastic free event for all the family, featuring top quality entertainment and a fantastic firework display. 

“Unfortunately, the weather prevented us from going ahead last weekend but we’re pleased to say that we’ve been able to rearrange the event for this Saturday, so please come along and celebrate this important event in the city’s calendar."

The event is supported by the Indian Multicultural Society, Shri Krishan Mandir, Gurudwara Sikh Council and the Gujrati Association.  

For further information, or if you would like to trade at this year’s event, please contact The Elias Mattu Foundation on 07904 310530 or via ashamattu@eliasmattufoundation.com. For all other enquiries, please contact Mohan Sharma on 07712 139431.