Christchurch’s beloved Holi Festival of Colour is set to return to Hagley Park on Saturday 26 April, bringing with it a vibrant explosion of culture, music, food and, of course, colour.

Now in its 13th year, the event has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the city’s most anticipated cultural celebrations.

Event organiser Hitesh Sharma said it began with a simple idea—to inject some joy into the city after tough times.

“We started this festival to bring a bit of cheer and connection to Christchurch,” Sharma said. “We never thought it would become so big. The community has really made it their own.”

The free community event will run from 11am to 4pm and promises a packed schedule of cultural performances, DJ sets, food stalls and Bollywood dancing.

This year’s festival will feature a Filipino fusion dance group, and crowd favourite DJ Ashwyn will return from Wellington—marking his twelfth year performing at the event.

“It’s the feeling behind the festival that keeps people coming back,” Sharma said. “People arrive thinking it’s just about colour, but they leave with a much deeper understanding of what Holi means—connection, celebration, and the joy of being together.”

Sandeep Khanna of Sandeep Khanna Mortgages, one of the major sponsors of the event, said Holi brings something truly special to the city.

“It’s a full expression of culture and inclusion,” he said. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from—when you’re covered in colour and dancing with strangers, you suddenly feel like friends.”

Khanna encouraged attendees to wear white to make the most of the colourful experience. “The colours really stand out on white,” he said. “It’s the only time you actually want your clothes stained by strangers!”

For health and safety reasons, colour powder must be purchased onsite. “External colours aren’t allowed because we need to make sure they’re safe,” Sharma explained. “But don’t worry—they’re cheap and easy to get on the day. Just bring some cash if you can, although Eftpos will be available too.”

The event has been made possible through support from sponsors including Homes by Parklane, Amiable Legal, and We Care.

“We’re so grateful to all our sponsors,” Sharma said. “Without them, we simply couldn’t run a free event of this scale.”

He said Holi was a great example of how Christchurch could celebrate cultural diversity in an open and welcoming way.

“When you throw colours at someone, you’re saying, ‘I see you, and I’m here to celebrate with you.’ It breaks down walls. That’s what makes this event so magical,” Sharma said.

Khanna added, “We want to keep building something positive for our community—something people look forward to every year. Holi is more than a party, it’s a symbol of unity.”

Locals are encouraged to arrive early, wear white, and be ready for a festival that promises colour, connection and unforgettable memories.

“It’s one of the happiest days on Christchurch’s calendar,” Sharma said. “We can’t wait to see the smiles, the dancing, and of course—the colours flying.”