Vaisakhi on the Square 2008

Event:          Vaisakhi on the Square
Date:            Sunday 4 May 2008
Time:            11.30am – 5pm
Venue:         Trafalgar Square, London WC2    
Entry:           FREE EVENT – all welcome

Vaisakhi, the Sikh New Year Festival will be celebrated this year on Sunday 4th May on Trafalgar Square. Organised by the Greater London Authority, in association with the Vaisakhi in London Committee the event is open to all Londoners and visitors to the capital.

Vaisakhi is celebrated in major cities and towns across the country and is the most important Sikh festival of the year. The ceremony will begin at 11.30am with prayers, hymns and messages for peace performed by groups from London Gurdwaras (Sikh Temples). Free vegetarian food provided by the Sikh community will be served.

The afternoon will include performances of traditional and modern Asian music and dance and DJ’s from Sunrise Radio including UK Asian Music Awards newcomer award winner H-Dhami, R&B artist Jay Sean and vocalist Alyssia.

Awards will be presented this year to young achievers from the Sikh community for their achievements in the arts, sport and education or for the contribution they have made to their community.

Manjit Singh Buttar JP, Chair of the Vaisakhi in London Committee said:

‘Vaisakhi is an important ceremony for all Sikhs around the world and promotes friendship, mutual respect and peace along with the core values of equality, diversity and tolerance for all, which are vital for a multicultural city like London. 

‘Londoners of all backgrounds are welcome to enjoy the celebrations on Trafalgar Square to learn more about Sikhism and enjoy a fun day out with all the family.’

Vaisakhi on the Square 2008 is supported by Transport for London and the media partner is Sunrise Radio.

Vaisakhi on the Square 2008 - programme
(subject to change)

• 11.30am
  Prayers and hymns by groups from London Gurdwaras (Sikh Temples)
• 2pm
  Live music and dance, plus guest artists and DJs from Sunrise Radio
• 3pm
  Speeches and awards ceremony for young high achievers from the Sikh community
• 3.30pm
  More live music and dance
• 5pm
  Event ends

Upload your Vaisakhi celebration videos and pictures here

Find out how to get to the Vaisakhi celebrations in Trafalgar Square - maps and updates, including London underground reports and journey planner with ITV Local's travel channel

Links

Sikhworld.co.uk Information on Sikhism, Sikh Gurus, symbols, history, and ceremonies.

London Government Website For more information on Vaisakhi on the Square 2008