Diwali Light It Up

Celebrate Diwali with Kala The Arts as Reading town centre comes alive with light, music and movement on Saturday 24 October 2026! 

This year, the focus is on the theme of Being Human. Reading will glow with towering 17-foot puppets of Sita, Rama, Ganesh and their companions, surrounded by dozens of lanterns and light installations. Get ready for Broad Street to pulse with the beat of dhol drums, live music and dancers in beautiful outfits, inspired by the likes of goddesses, animals and mythic tales.

Here’s how the evening unfolds:

🕺 5pm–5.45pm — Dance performances at Reading Town Hall Square

🥁 5.45pm–6pm — Drummers at Reading Town Hall Square

🎉 6.15pm–7pm — Parade through the town centre, finishing on Broad Street

Join the celebrations as music, dance, drumming and giant illuminated puppets light up the heart of Reading. It’s free to attend, so bring the whole family!