Final preparations are being made for this weekend’s Diwali celebrations in Birmingham.

The free indoor event takes place once again at the New Bingley Hall, in Hockley Circus, Birmingham, on Sunday, 16 November, ensuring that the weather will not dampen the celebrations.

Running from 2pm to 7pm, the event is organised by the Hindu Council of Birmingham, with the support of Birmingham City Council.

The venue will be transformed into a vibrant and colourful arena featuring a stage area, an exhibition area, arts centre and workshops.

Attractions include: Local community and amateur performers who will perform dances from well-known Bollywood films, as well as kathas, garbas, traditional Sanskruti dances, song and plays; Professional stage performances, headlined by nationally and internationally renowned Asian artists; Information and advice stalls covering local services, including health and local authority services, religious and cultural, education and training, local business support, as well as food stalls offering mouth-watering vegetarian Indian dishes.

Younger visitors are also catered for with a dedicated Kids Zone comprising face painting, cartoon shows, mask making, games, competitions and a music and dance workshop.

The celebrations will culminate in a fireworks and music finale at 7pm.