New festival to bring light to east London

The University of East London will host a new, free winter festival on the evening of Wednesday, 8 February at its Docklands campus.

The ‘UEL:After Dark’ festival promises inclusive, illuminated entertainment and interactive participation for all ages. Performances include live Bhangra from the Dhol Foundation, dance and fire juggling, a Living Snow Globe, drop-in sports activities, family lantern workshops, a waterfront light parade, fresh street food and much more.

This year, the University is celebrating its foundation 125 years ago and ‘UEL: After Dark’ is part of a year of events and festivities.

Those seeking a truly immersive creative experience on the day can book a place on a limited-space cultural walking tour between UEL's Docklands and Stratford Campuses, run by the Midnight Run.

‘UEL:After Dark’ is produced in partnership with students, and encompasses two weeks of creative workshops ahead of the event for joint skills development with local schools and the wider East London community. Hilary Lissenden, UEL's Assistant Chief Operating Officer (Sport and Active Campus), said,

UEL:After Dark promises inspirational entertainment and community engagement, as well as fantastic learning and development opportunities for our students, who are deeply involved in all aspects of the event from planning to promotion to delivery. It will link UEL's sites, raise the profile of our institution and celebrate 125 years of outstanding education. What a great way to brighten up a dark February evening - we're so excited!”

UEL's inspiring new festival is completely free, so save the date, wrap up warm and get ready for fun! There's no need to book, but those planning to attend are encouraged to register online to give the event organisers an idea of numbers.