National Trust To Celebrate Diwali In Keighley

Image © National Trust Images

This November, East Riddlesden Hall, a National Trust property near Keighley, will be transformed into a dazzling celebration of light in honour of Diwali. For the first time ever, the Hall is opening its doors to celebrate this vibrant festival, welcoming visitors of all backgrounds to experience the rich traditions and beauty of Diwali.

From the 1st to 13th November, East Riddlesden Hall and its gardens will be beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere for guests to explore. The gardens will come alive with light displays, while traditional Diwali decorations will adorn the interior of the Hall. Visitors can wander through the lit nature trail, admiring the glowing surroundings, or step inside to see the Hall transformed with vibrant colours, intricate rangoli designs, and handmade decorations.

This celebration is the result of close collaboration with the local community, making it a true community event. Senior Volunteering and Communities Officer, Emily Ghassempour, who has been central to planning the event, expressed her excitement: "Working with the community has been inspiring. Their knowledge has helped us create an authentic and welcoming Diwali celebration, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone."

Local schoolchildren have played a significant role in preparations, creating handmade clay Diya lamps, which will light up the Hall and reflect the festival's central theme of light. In addition, children have been invited to participate in a rangoli design competition, with the winning design becoming a colouring activity in the Hall’s craft room, offering fun for visitors of all ages.

Visitors to East Riddlesden Hall’s Diwali celebration will have plenty of opportunities to get involved. The Hall will host a crafting space where families can create their own Diwali-inspired crafts. The tearoom will feature a special menu, including the delicious Kedleston curry, providing a tasty treat for all. For those looking to take a piece of Diwali home, the gift shop will showcase a selection of Diwali-inspired products.

Hester Pode, Welcome Manager at East Riddlesden Hall, expressed her excitement for the event: "We can’t wait to welcome the local community to our first Diwali celebration at the Hall. The displays and illuminations will make the Hall look spectacular, and we’re thrilled to offer an event that embraces the diversity and joy of Diwali."

For those looking to experience the Hall in all its illuminated glory, three special open evenings will be held during the event, where guests can enjoy the magical light displays after dark. These open evenings are a perfect opportunity to witness the Hall and gardens flooded with light, creating a truly enchanting experience.

Running from the 1st to the 13th of November, the Diwali celebration at East Riddlesden Hall promises to be a memorable event for all ages. There is no additional charge for the event—normal admission applies.