Tamworth is set to explode in a kaleidoscope of colour, culture and community spirit later this month as the Tamworth Holi Festival invites locals of all backgrounds to step into one of the world’s most joyful celebrations.
From 3 pm to 8 pm on Saturday, February 28, Nepalese in Tamworth will transform the park into a vibrant celebration of unity, music, dance and, of course, the iconic colour throwing that defines Holi, the Festival of Colours. What began as a small gathering among friends has now grown into a town-wide invitation to celebrate together.
Secretary for the Nepalese in Tamworth group, Madan Pandey, said the decision to expand the event in 2026 came from seeing growing interest within the broader community.
“For the past few years, we’ve been celebrating Holi as a small group of friends and families here in Tamworth,” he said. “As our local circles grew, we noticed our colleagues and neighbours weren’t just curious about the colours, they wanted to be a part of the joy.”
“We realised that the spirit of Holi, which is all about unity and new beginnings, was something we wanted to share with the whole town. This year, we’re opening it up to everyone so we can celebrate Tamworth’s vibrant multicultural heart together.”
For those who have never experienced Holi, the festival carries deep spiritual and cultural significance. In Nepal, where it is also known as Fagu Purnima, Holi symbolises the triumph of good over evil.
“At its heart, Holi celebrates the story of Prahlad and Holika,” Mr Pandey said. “Prahlad was a young prince who stood up for what was right, despite being pressured by an evil king. When he was miraculously saved from a fire while the demoness Holika perished, it became a symbol that goodness and truth will always prevail over darkness.”
The festival also marks the arrival of spring and a season of renewal.
“In Nepal, Holi marks the end of winter and the start of spring,” he said. “It’s a time of rebirth and rejuvenation. Just as the flowers begin to bloom in different colours, we cover each other in powders to welcome the changing season and pray for a good harvest. It’s essentially a ‘fresh start’ for everyone.”
Perhaps most powerfully, Holi is known as the “great equaliser”.
“Once you are covered in pink, green and yellow powder, everyone looks the same,” Mr Pandey said. “It’s a day where social barriers, age and backgrounds disappear. It’s a traditional time to let go of old grudges, forgive friends and repair broken relationships. It encourages adults to be kids again, reminding us not to take life too seriously.”
Families attending can expect an afternoon filled with colour throwing, multicultural food stalls, live music and dance performances.
“People can expect lot of entertainment, unity, forgiveness, playfulness and a lot of multicultural food, music and performances,” Mr Pandey said.
And for those feeling hesitant about being covered head to toe in colour?
“Come down to the park, watch it, enjoy the food and performance. If you still don’t want to put on colours, it’s a free event with free entertainment. So, give it a try. I am sure you won’t be disappointed.”
As Tamworth continues to grow as a multicultural regional centre, the Holi Festival offers more than just a fun afternoon; it offers connection. In a world that can often feel divided, this celebration is a reminder that sometimes all it takes is a handful of colour, a shared meal and a little laughter to bring a community together.
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