Magical Winter Festival lights up Ebbsfleet

Despite challenging weather conditions, over a thousand people attended the Ebbsfleet Magical Winter Festival, which transformed Platinum Jubilee Park into a breath-taking winter wonderland on Friday 6th February. Local residents came together in large numbers to celebrate an evening of light, enchantment, and community spirit, demonstrating the strength and togetherness of the Ebbsfleet community.

The free community festival delighted attendees with a dazzling array of magical light installations, creating a mesmerising atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Pupils from five local schools proudly took part in the festival’s first-ever lantern parade, showcasing lanterns they had created alongside arts organisation Same Sky. The glowing procession illuminated the park, creating a powerful shared moment of light, creativity, and community in the darkness.

Alongside the stunning visual displays, festival-goers were treated to a series of spectacular street performances. High-energy Bollywood and Brass acts, illuminated stilt walkers, and dynamic fire-themed dancers brought warmth and excitement to the winter evening. These performances were joined by the much-loved appearance of Inka the Polar Bear, a powerful symbol of strength and endurance, who proved to be an unforgettable attraction for guests of all ages.

The festival also featured a wide range of local street food, from Indian and pizza to Caribbean cuisine and home-baked goods, all supplied by traders from the local area, further celebrating the diversity and vibrancy of the community.

The event was produced and funded by Cohesion Plus and Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, with support from Arts Council England, Kent Equality Cohesion Council, Same Sky, and KKB Group. The festival was a joyful celebration of community togetherness, creativity, and cultural vibrancy, even in the face of adverse weather.

Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, Artistic Director of Cohesion Plus, commented: “Despite the weather, it was incredibly uplifting to see so many local residents come out and share this community celebration together. At a time of seasonal darkness, the festival aimed to shine a light when many people find this period difficult, and to show how arts and culture can truly connect the residents of Ebbsfleet. We are deeply grateful to all of our partners for their ongoing support, which makes events like this possible, and the turnout and atmosphere were a real testament to the power of community.”