Romford Market to host free Diwali festival this month

The festival is returning to Romford this month <i>(Image: Hannah Davis)</i>
The festival is returning to Romford this month (Image: Hannah Davis)
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Romford is set to transform with colour and celebration for a free Diwali event.

Romford Business Improvement District (BID), in partnership with HASWA, Havering Changing and Clarion Futures, will host the Diwali festival on October 25, from 11am to 4pm at the St Edward’s Church end of Romford Market.

The family-friendly event will feature Bollywood and Bhangra performances, live music, Diwali-themed workshops, henna art, face painting, and caricature artists.

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Julie Frost, director of Romford BID, said: "We are absolutely delighted to be bringing Diwali celebrations back to Romford in 2026. Diwali has become a much-loved celebration in our town, bringing together residents, businesses and community groups to enjoy the colour, culture and vibrancy of this special festival.

"At Romford BID, we're committed to celebrating culture and diversity, and this event is a brilliant opportunity to bring people together in a joyful and welcoming way. With a fantastic programme of entertainment, activities and experiences for all ages, we look forward to welcoming everyone to Romford for another memorable day of celebration."

The event will include performances from Segatastic, K Sparks, Aadya, Harvey, Veena, and community groups. A drumming workshop led by Tej will take place from 2pm to 2.30pm outside Church House.

A spokesperson for Romford BID confirmed that the festival will also include children’s art workshops, a saree try-on experience, a tea cup ride, health information, advice and blood pressure checks from Live Well Havering, and flu vaccination services from The Doctors House.

Visitors can enjoy South Indian and Sri Lankan street food from Madras Masala, Pakistani cuisine from Karachi Masala, and Indian street food from Shinds and Sutra Hospitality. Stalls will offer jewellery, sarees, Asian clothing, bags, shawls, perfumes, locally produced honey, candles and handcrafted gifts.

James Jackson of Havering Changing said: "It's wonderful to be celebrating Diwali in Romford Market once more. Partnering with Romford BID, HASWA and Clarion Futures gives us the opportunity to bring the community together in honour of this festival of light, which reminds us of the power of positivity and togetherness. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to enjoy the celebrations."

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