South Asian communities LOVE a reason to celebrate and with over 1,000 festivals across the region, there’s always a reason to share joy. Rooted in ancient traditions, these celebrations often focus on light, renewal, reflection and community and have evolved into vibrant festivities observed around the world today.
Sampad often draws inspiration from South Asian festivals – here’s a look at some of them:
March – Holi & Eid ul-Fitr
Holi, the festival of colours, celebrates the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Communities mark the occasion by throwing brightly coloured powders, singing, dancing and sharing sweets, creating a vibrant atmosphere of joy and renewal. March also brings Eid ul-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan and is a time of reflection and community. Families and friends gather for prayers, shared meals and acts of charity, celebrating gratitude and fresh beginnings.
Sampad’s Asian Spring on 22 March channels this shared spirit of celebration with a dazzling showcase of South Asian dance, featuring artists from across the region. Bursting with creativity and connection, the evening reflects the joy and unity found in both Holi and Eid celebrations.
March also welcomes Tribhangi Dance Theatre: UBUNTU, blending classical Indian Bharatanatyam with African and contemporary styles. This high-energy performance celebrates human connection and shared identity, echoing the communal spirit at the heart of these seasonal festivals.
April – Vaisakhi
Vaisakhi marks the Punjabi harvest festival and is the most important celebration in Sikhism. It is a vibrant occasion filled with music, dancing, prayers and community gatherings, bringing people together to honour tradition and renewal.
Midday Mantra: Vasant brings these celebrations to life in a joyful concert, featuring music that reflects the renewal and optimism of spring. This event invites audiences to experience the richness of South Asian cultural traditions while exploring shared themes across global spring festivals.
May – Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha is an important Islamic festival celebrated in June centred on faith, generosity and community. Families come together for special prayers, share meals and give to those in need, making it a time of reflection, kindness and connection.
Midday Mantra: Earth Pulse on 23 May celebrates the vibrant rhythms of South Asian music and our connection to nature. Both Earth Pulse and Eid al-Adha resonate with themes of togetherness, gratitude and connection to the world around us.
July & August – South Asian Heritage Month
South Asian Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of South Asian communities. It’s a time to reflect on identity, connection and creativity across the region’s rich traditions.
Sampad will be marking the month with events that spotlight the diversity of South Asian arts, offering opportunities for audiences to explore and celebrate South Asian heritage in vibrant, meaningful ways.
October – Bandi Chhor Divas & Diwali
Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali are festivals of light and hope. Homes and streets are illuminated and families come together to share food, prayers and moments of reflection.
Together, these festivals celebrate renewal, resilience, and community. While Sampad events for this season are still to be announced, there will be opportunities to come together through music, dance, and storytelling that reflect the spirit of Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali.
Sampad invites audiences, participants and school groups to experience the beauty, diversity, and connection that these cultural celebrations inspire.
