We decided to host the Diwali event at Marble Hill as it’s simply a magical setting, thanks to the beautiful landscape, the property’s proximity to the Thames, the aesthetic and art of the house and of course the flora and fauna of its grounds. The history of both the landscape and the house itself conjured up images of guests of Henrietta Howard, who built Marble Hill in the 1720s, arriving by river to attend parties and events. Marble Hill’s interiors, wallpaper and design also play into the themes that run through our lantern workshops. We have pioneered lantern-making that uses sustainable materials – another first for the property.

Diwali at Marble Hill works on many levels to a broad, intergenerational audience. At this year’s event you will be able to enjoy a wonderful autumn afternoon in which you can take part in a craft workshop, listen to a story, participate in the parade, enjoy tasty street food and dance away at our finale. This year’s theme is joy and we invest the theme into all aspects of the show.

We hope that what people take away from the event is the opportunity to come together at a special time of year. We want visitors to enjoy a technicolour festival in which families and communities come together, creating an understanding of Diwali as a universal festival of light over darkness. My favourite moment from last year’s event was seeing the awestruck face of a three-year-old looking into the eyes of a giant puppet. It’s these moments of universal connection, of wonder and awe that capture the imagination and transport our audiences to another place.