This year, the people of Watford can celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, outside for the very first time.

Preceding the spectacular evening celebrations which are staged at the Watford Palace Theatre every year will be a free daytime event – part of Watford’s Big Events – that includes community performances, stalls offering Diwali treats and crafts, and a beautiful light installation.

Along The Parade, shoppers and visitors will be encouraged to join in the fun, with mehndi (henna), gopi dot face-painting, and musical and cultural dance workshops. There will be performances from groups from various regions across India, including kathak and Bollywood dancing, as well as singing and spoken word events.

The daytime event finishes as the sun goes down, with everyone coming together for a procession along The Parade to the pond, which will be alight with dazzling floating lotuses. Cyclists carrying peacock lanterns and a 2metre-high, illuminated Ganesh will lead the way, with members of the public holding candles.

In the evening, the lights will go up at the Palace for a performance of Janak Dulari Sita (King Janak’s Beloved Daughter Sita), pictured right, by Subrang Arts, a group dedicated to the promotion of Asian art and culture.

This is a timeless, epic tale of love, devotion, self-sacrifice, courage and purity. Beautifully staged and featuring a large cast, Sita’s story is told through musical storytelling, elaborate choreography, animated backdrops and exquisite costumes. This magical experience for the whole family will be narrated by Harish Bhimani with English subtitles.

Elected Mayor Dorothy Thornhill says: “Watford is proud of its diversity and I’m delighted that we are celebrating it with this very special Diwali event. The day offers a chance for people of all ages to have fun, learn and be part of the community.”

  • Diwali on The Parade takes place at The Parade, High Street, Watford on Sunday, November 16 from 12noon to 5pm. Diwali at the Palace is at Watford Palace Theatre, Clarendon Road, Watford from 6pm. Details: 01923 225671, watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk, watfordbigevents.co.uk