Leicester will host one of its largest cultural celebrations this weekend as thousands of people take part in the city’s annual Sikh parade, the Nagar Kirtan, marking the festival of Vaisakhi.
The vibrant procession will take place on Sunday, April 27, drawing an estimated 10,000 participants, with many more spectators expected to line the streets. This year’s route begins at Guru Nanak Gurdwara on Holy Bones, heads into the city centre, and returns to the temple.
To accommodate the event, rolling road closures will be in effect along the parade route, although these will be temporary and well-managed.
The procession route is as follows:
- Starts at Holy Bones (around 11:30am)
- Vaughan Way Slip Road
- St Nicholas Circle
- Southgates
- Friar Lane
- Berridge Street
- Millstone Lane
- Bowling Green Street
- Bishop Street
- Part of Granby Street
- Gallowtree Gate and High Street
- Returning to Holy Bones around 2:00pm
Traffic and Travel Info:
- St Nicholas Circle will be closed to vehicles from 11:30am for up to three hours, with clear diversions in place.
- Southgates underpass will remain open throughout.
- Drivers are advised to expect delays as the parade moves through the city.
- Advance warning signs will be set up prior to the event.
As well as the main celebrations in Leicester city centre, a Vaisakhi celebration will also be taking place at Spinney Hill Park on Sunday, April 27.
The event, organised by the Management Committee of Guru Tegh Bahadur Gurudwara, Leicester, will include an all-day Diwaan with Diwan, Diwaan di Diwaan, Katha Vachaks, and Kirtanis. There will also be Langar (community kitchen) served all day, stalls with food, books, and more, Gatka exhibitions, educational stalls, and children’s activities.
It will take place between 11-6pm.
