Holi Festival of Colours Lights Up Dartford

The Holi Festival of Colours returned to Dartford’s Open-Air Theatre in Central Park on Sunday 8 March, transforming the area into a vibrant spectacle of colour and joy as local residents came together to celebrate this much-loved spring festival.

Produced by local community groups and champions working with Cohesion Plus and Dartford Borough Council, the event brought people of all backgrounds together in a unique and uplifting celebration of unity, diversity, and renewal. The event was supported by Arts Council England, whose investment helps Cohesion Plus deliver cultural activities that bring communities together across North Kent.

The festival, which was free to attend, featured high-energy music, cultural performances and, of course, the iconic throwing of coloured powder, creating an electric atmosphere of fun and togetherness. Hundreds of attendees of all ages enthusiastically joined in, covering each other in brilliant hues and embracing the spirit of Holi – a tradition rooted in love, friendship and the triumph of good over evil.

Civic guests included Deputy Lieutenant Gurvinder Sandher MBE, representing the Lord Lieutenant of Kent; The Mayor of Dartford, Cllr Peter Whapshott; Leader of Dartford Borough Council, Cllr Jeremy Kite MBE; and The High Sheriff of Kent, Jonathan Neame, all of whom joined the celebrations and wished the crowd a Happy Holi.

Gurvinder Sandher, Artistic Director of Cohesion Plus, said:

“It was fantastic to see so many people from different backgrounds coming together to celebrate Holi in such a joyous and inclusive way. The festival is about breaking down barriers and promoting community cohesion, and the overwhelming support from local residents highlights the power of cultural events in bringing people together. We are grateful to Dartford Borough Council, Arts Council England and our community partners for their support in making this event such a success.”

Cllr Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council, commented:

“The Holi Festival of Colours has become a popular annual fixture in Dartford, reinforcing the borough’s commitment to welcoming the whole town to a diverse range of festivals and events. Holi sums up the spirit of Dartford brilliantly. It was a true family occasion, open to absolutely everyone. With music filling the air and bursts of colour painting the sky, the event was a true testament to the vibrancy and unity of the local community.”