The best things to do to celebrate Holi in London

The Holi Festival of colour is one of the most revered festivals of India. It is traditionally a time where friends and family gather to celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of spring. It is also a celebration of good triumphing over evil. It is a festival that is packed with colour and vibrancy. This two-day festival of colours is one that is celebrated around a bonfire where people will celebrate beating evil. The second day is where the main event happens, this is known as gulal, perfumed colourful powder is thrown around, painting a picture of colourful chaos that is widely admired. For Hindi students in London, it might be the first Holi celebration spent away from family. This does not mean that you cannot and should not celebrate this festival with friends. There are so many ways to get involved with the Holi festival in London, we hope this guide is helpful in giving you some ideas of how to celebrate – be it at Scape or across the city.

1) Stay in and make the most that Scape has to offer

Every year in each Scape building we host an event for our residents to enjoy the Holi festival. Enjoy the Bollywood music, authentic treats, drinks and colourful festivities with your neighbours in the comfort of your own home. Why not bring in your friends from other accommodations to celebrate all together.

2) Visit local temples

London is home to some beautiful Hindu temples. The closest option for our Scape Wembley students is Neasden Temple (BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir) where they host a bonfire celebration. There is also the ISKCON temple in SOHO which works for our Scape Bloomsbury, Kings Cross, Shoreditch and Canada Water residents. They also have a temple in Croydon which is easily accessible for our Guildford residents. The temples often hold special events and ceremonies that allow you to experience the cultural and spiritual significance of the festival. Participating in temple festivities can be a serene and spirtual way to celebrate Holi.

3) Visit the Cinnamon kitchen

The Cinnamon Kitchen is in Whitechapel, is an ideal location to celebrate Holi for our Mile End residents. They host the legendary two week long Holi Festival. Joining the festivities at The Cinnamon Kitchen is a properly colour affair, you’ll to get the best photographic evidence to show your family proof that you did take part in the celebrations.

4) Attend holi festivals

In Harrow, you could try out the Magic of India Holi Colour Dance Festival. There is live music and dancing and once again, you can go wild with the dry colour powder. This is a real community event but one that will leave you feeling as though you have found somewhere where you can meet other students and even find a new kind of family during your time at university. London Holi Festival at Blackheath halls with music, vegan snacks and a huge celebration. There is also the London Ki Holi festival which is an 8 hour party including colour powder throwing, dancing, music and djs – later on in the night the Bollywood rave kicks off. Keep an eye on event listings and social media to stay updated on the latest Holi festival happenings in the city.

5) Explore cultural areas of London

London is a melting pot of cultures, that is why we love it so much! There feels like there are endless areas to explore many of which celebrate and exude the Holi spirit. Head to Southall, Wembley, or Tooting, where you'll find a rich Indian community that celebrates Holi with traditional gusto. Most years these areas will host public events and parades, providing a great opportunity to experience the festival authentically in your new city.

6) Join cultural societies

Many universities in London have cultural societies and student groups dedicated to celebrating festivals from around the world – UCL, Kings, Queen Marys are just a few examples. Join your university societies and connect with fellow students who share your faith and excitement for Holi amongst other festivities. Societies are free to join and link likeminded people together. They often organize Holi events, cultural performances, and gatherings that allow you to experience the festival in a communal and fun way.

While celebrating Holi in London, it's essential to be respectful of the traditions and customs associated with the festival. The cultural festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the onset of spring. It's also a time for forgiveness and unity and the colourful festivities bring a sense of joy and inclusivity. Celebrating Holi in London is a vibrant and memorable experience. Whether you choose to attend Holi festivals, join in with Scape events and like-minded people or explore the cultural neighbourhoods of London.