Skip to main content
Things To Do
Misericord or mercy seat from the Tunstall Chapel featuring a pig playing the Northumbrian pipes.

The colourful Holi Festival is back at the Oriental Museum

15 February 2022
Share page:
Hindu festival of Holi at Durham University’s Oriental Museum

Students and community volunteers will spring into action to help celebrate the spectacular Indian festival of Holi at Durham University’s Oriental Museum.

Local families are invited to join in the fun and mark the passing of winter and the arrival of spring on Saturday 12 March, 12noon – 5pm.

Colourful fun for the whole family

Known as the Festival of Colours, Holi traditionally involves throwing brightly coloured powders over friends and relatives to represent the victory of good over evil.

Visitors will be able to dance to a mix of Bhangra hits and upbeat pop, while getting covered from head to toe in brightly coloured powders.

The day will also include arts and craft activities, storytelling and guests will have the opportunity to help produce some traditional Rangoli designs.

The event is another opportunity for University staff, students and local families to come togetherand share in the cultural and social life of the city.

Get messy

Charlotte Spink, the event organiser, said: “After two years of the pandemic, this year we are finally able to host this fantastic festival once again. Holi 2022 will be a celebration of spring, but also a chance to welcome back all our lovely visitors, community and student volunteers.

“We advise anyone coming along to wear light coloured clothes for maximum effect and be prepared to get messy!

“There will be lots do to on the day with storytelling, colourful arts and crafts for all inside the museum, as well as the powder throws.”

Further information and tickets:

  • Tickets cost £2 per person and are free for the under 2s. Visitors are advised to book in advance to ensure they get a place. The ticket price also includes entry to the Oriental Museum on the day.
  • Ticketholders will receive two bags of environmentally friendly and ‘skin-kind’ Holi powder in a range of colours. Additional bags will be available to purchase on the day.
  • Free parking is available for this event at Elvet Hill Car Park. ,There is also paid on-street parking near the museum and the Howlands Park and Ride is a 15-minute walk away.