How Students Can Celebrate Holi in the UK

Holi, the festival of colours, is one of the most exciting celebrations in India. It marks the arrival of spring and brings people together with music, dancing, and bright colours.

But if you’re a student in the UK, you might wonder how to celebrate Holi in the UK away from home. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to enjoy this joyful festival!

From university events and cultural gatherings to small parties with friends, Holi can still be just as fun. Whether you’re splashing colours, enjoying delicious Indian sweets, or dancing to Bollywood beats, this guide will help you make the most of Holi in the UK.

History and Tradition of Holi

Holi is a Hindu festival that celebrates the arrival of spring, love, and new beginnings.

It is known as the festival of colours and brings people together in a joyful spirit. The celebration lasts for two days. On the first evening, called Holika Dahan, people light bonfires to symbolise the victory of good over evil. This tradition comes from the legend of Prahlad and Holika, where devotion to Lord Vishnu saved Prahlad from harm.

The second day, known as Rangwali Holi, is the fun-filled colour festival. People splash coloured powders, dance, and enjoy sweets like gujiya and thandai.

How is Holi celebrated in the UK?

Holi in the UK is a lively and colourful celebration, bringing people together just like in India. Many universities and Indian communities organise Holi parties with music, dance, and colour splashing. Parks and open spaces become festival grounds where students and families gather to enjoy the fun.

Cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester host large Holi events with DJs, Bollywood music, and delicious Indian food. Some places even have eco-friendly colours to keep things safe and clean.

If you prefer a quieter celebration, you can enjoy Holi by cooking traditional sweets, watching Bollywood movies, or having a small get-together with friends. No matter where you are, Holi in the UK is a time to spread joy, colour, and togetherness!

Where to celebrate Holi in the UK?

London

London Ki Holi Festival 2025

The London Ki Holi Festival 2025 is set to be an unforgettable celebration, bringing the joy of Holi to the heart of the city on Saturday, March 15, 2025.

With over 7,000 people expected to attend, this 8-hour festival promises unlimited colours, food stalls, free merchandise and an exciting entertainment lineup.

The event features an outdoor Holi colour play zone with organic powders and live music from 2 PM to 5:30 PM. As the evening kicks in, a Bollywood DJ party and laser-themed Holi rave will take over from 6 PM to 9 PM. Throughout the day, enjoy Bollywood dance performances, circus acts, samba dancers, and dhol players.

There will also be 360° photo booths, festival fireworks, and both indoor and outdoor entertainment areas. Whether you’re dancing, playing with colours, or enjoying delicious food, London Ki Holi Festival 2025 promises a lively, inclusive, and colourful experience for all!

Balam Pichkari 2025

Balam Pichkari 2025 offers everything needed for an unforgettable Holi experience, from eco-friendly colour play to Bollywood music, live dhol beats, and energetic dance performances.

It’s the perfect opportunity to dance to Holi anthems, enjoy delicious Indian food, and capture colourful memories with friends.

With a lively crowd and festive atmosphere, you can immerse yourself in Indian culture, meet new people, and enjoy the joy of Holi in a safe and inclusive space.

Just wear white, bring your energy, and get ready to celebrate Holi in the most exciting way!

Leeds

The Leeds Holi Festival 2025 is set to be the UK’s biggest open-air colour festival, happening on Saturday, March 15th.

What started as a dream eight years ago has grown into a massive event, welcoming thousands of people each year. In 2024, over 4,600 Holi lovers joined the festivities, and this year, the event is aiming for 7,000 attendees with an even bigger production and entertainment lineup.

Students can take part by joining the colour play, dancing to vibrant music, and experiencing the joy of Holi.

Birmingham and Manchester

Students should not miss the Holi Festival, which is sure to be a day packed with music, colours, and high-energy celebrations!

This event is taking place on March 15th 2025 at Six Trees Kitchen & Bar, Manchester & March 16th 2025, at Roller Jam Digbeth. This event promises amazing Bollywood beats, live performances, and endless dancing.

With top DJs spinning Bollywood, Desi, and South Indian music, students can let loose, enjoy the electric atmosphere, and welcome spring in the most exciting way.

Special guest Arjun will perform live, making the event even more unforgettable! Expect eco-friendly colour play, delicious street food, and a lively crowd. If you love Bollywood vibes and nonstop fun, this festival is the perfect way to celebrate Holi in Birmingham and Manchester with friends!

Please do note that this event is only for people aged 18 and over and required proof of ID.

Holi is a time for joy, colours, and togetherness, and students in the UK have plenty of exciting ways to celebrate.

Whether you join a large festival with music and dancing, organise a colour play with friends, or enjoy traditional Holi treats, the spirit of the festival remains the same.

It’s a chance to embrace new beginnings, meet new people, and experience this beautiful cultural tradition.

So wear white, gather your friends, and get ready to make unforgettable memories filled with colour and fun!

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