Spectacular celebration brings colour, culture and community together

04 November 2026

A successful town-wide celebration brought people of all ages and backgrounds together, filling the heart of Wellingborough with music, dance, creativity and the spirit of unity.

Wellingborough town centre came alive with colour, music and celebration on Saturday 31 October as the Wellingborough Festival of Lights 2026 brought together residents, families and visitors for a memorable day of cultural performances, creative activities and community participation.

Organised by Wellingborough District Hindu Association (WDHA) under the theme “Unity in Light - Bringing Our Community Together”, the Festival celebrated the universal values of hope, friendship, inclusion and togetherness, drawing inspiration from Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights.

The successful event was the culmination of a programme of activities across Wellingborough, made possible through the collaboration of local organisations, community groups, performers, businesses and a dedicated team of volunteers.

The Festival extended beyond Market Square, with The Castle Theatre, Wellingborough Museum, Wellingborough Library and Swansgate Shopping Centre each contributing to a diverse programme of activities.

The Castle Theatre provided opportunities for people to experience dance, drama and meditation through interactive workshops.

Wellingborough Museum celebrated the town's rich cultural heritage, creativity and shared history. A particular focus was placed on the stories of the first generation of South Asians who made Wellingborough their home, recognising their journeys, experiences and significant contributions to the town's social, cultural and economic development, and the lasting legacy they have created for future generations.

Wellingborough Library welcomed children and families with a range of creative and interactive activities, including engaging storytelling sessions led by Myrle Roach, storyteller, who brought to life the story of Lord Rama and its connection to Diwali celebrations. Through storytelling, younger visitors were introduced to the traditions and significance of Diwali, exploring its timeless messages of goodness, courage, hope and the triumph of light over darkness.

Swansgate Shopping Centre came alive with colourful performances representing diverse cultural traditions, music and family entertainment, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Highlights included a lantern-making workshop, a colourful rangoli competition, henna art and a host of other creative activities designed to engage children and families, encouraging imagination, participation and a shared sense of celebration.

The celebrations culminated in Market Street, where live performances representing diverse cultural traditions entertained audiences throughout the afternoon and evening. Food, gift and craft stallholders added to the festive atmosphere, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy different flavours, traditions and experiences.

The highlight of the evening was the Diwali Festival Lights Switch-On at 7pm, led by Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, illuminating the town centre and bringing a fitting sense of celebration to the occasion.

It was a pleasure to attend the Wellingborough Festival of Lights and see so many people coming together to celebrate community, culture and friendship. The event created a fantastic atmosphere across the town, and North Northamptonshire Council was delighted to support this wonderful occasion, which showcased the community spirit that make Wellingborough such a special place. I was honoured and proud to be asked to switch on the lights and say a few words to so many friends on a night I will remember for many years.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council

WDHA expressed its sincere appreciation to North Northamptonshire Council, Wellingborough Town Council and Discover Northamptonshire, whose partnership and support were instrumental in bringing the Festival to life.

Special thanks were extended to the teams at The Castle Theatre, Wellingborough Museum, Wellingborough Library and Swansgate Shopping Centre for their enthusiasm, collaboration and commitment to making the celebrations accessible and enjoyable for the wider community.

WDHA also acknowledged the many performers who generously shared their talents and cultural traditions, bringing energy, colour and joy to the celebrations.

The Association was delighted to welcome the Deputy Lieutenant, Gen Kitchen MP, Adele Wylie, Chief Executive of North Northamptonshire Council, Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, The Mayor and fellow councillors, whose presence demonstrated the importance of community celebrations in bringing people together.

Recognition was also given to the stallholders, workshop facilitators, community organisations and local businesses whose contributions helped create a lively and welcoming Festival atmosphere.

Above all, WDHA paid tribute to its dedicated team of volunteers, whose hard work, commitment and enthusiasm, both in the months leading up to the Festival and throughout the day itself, were central to its success.

Unity in Light - A Celebration of Community

The success of the Wellingborough Festival of Lights reflects what can be achieved when communities, organisations and individuals come together with a shared purpose. It was wonderful to see people of all ages and backgrounds enjoying the celebrations, sharing experiences and bringing such warmth and positivity to our town centre. We are immensely grateful to our partners, performers, stallholders, volunteers and everyone who contributed to making the Festival such a success. Together, we have shown how the simple message of unity in light can bring people together and create lasting community connections.Wellingborough District Hindu Association representative

The Wellingborough Festival of Lights 2026 demonstrated the power of cultural celebrations to bring communities together, encourage participation and create a shared sense of pride in the town.

WDHA hopes to build on this year's success, working with its partners to continue developing the Festival as an annual celebration of Wellingborough's cultural diversity, creativity and community spirit.

The Festival may have come to an end, but the light of friendship, unity and togetherness continues to shine across Wellingborough.