Ipswich Borough Council is delighted to announce the return of one of the town’s most vibrant cultural celebrations - the Holi Festival of Colour, taking place on Sunday 12 April, from 12pm to 4pm at Alexandra Park.
Delivered in collaboration with the Ipswich & Suffolk Indian Association, this much‑loved free event invites residents and visitors of all ages to come together and experience the joy, colour and community spirit of Holi - a festival that marks the arrival of spring and celebrates unity, renewal and the triumph of good over evil.
This year’s festival promises a fun‑filled afternoon for families, friends and visitors, with highlights including:
- Free coloured powder for the traditional colour throwing
- Henna hand‑painting, showcasing beautiful and intricate designs
- Authentic Indian food stalls offering delicious flavours from across the subcontinent
- A lively marketplace filled with crafts and cultural items
- The opportunity to take part in traditional offerings by bringing coconuts and grains to place on the bonfire
Attendees are encouraged to wear old clothing if they plan to join in the colour throwing - and to expect to leave covered in vibrant hues!
The Holi Festival has been celebrated in Ipswich since 2013 and continues to grow in popularity, attracting around 2,500 people last year. This April, Alexandra Park will once again be transformed into a joyful, family‑friendly space alive with colour, music, dance and community connection.
Councillor Jane Riley, Ipswich Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers, said:
“We’re delighted that Alexandra Park will once again host this year’s Holi Festival, one of the most colourful free events in the Ipswich cultural calendar. The diverse communities in our town help make it a great place to live, work, visit and enjoy, and this festival is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to come together to celebrate everything that’s good about Ipswich.
“My thanks go to all the organisers, entertainers and stall holders who are working so hard to bring people a day filled with colour, music and great activity. We warmly welcome residents and visitors to join us for this vibrant celebration - and most importantly, don’t forget to wear old clothes if you’re getting into the spirit of Holi!”
For event information, visit Holi Festival - Ipswich Entertains