Join us in celebrating Tamil Heritage Month 2026
Our borough is home to a vibrant Tamil community, renowned for its rich culture, traditions, and language. The Federation of Tamil Organisations of Waltham Forest invites everyone to take part in a day of celebration and community on Saturday 24 January 2026. All events are free and open to all, supported by Waltham Forest Council through the Culture team's Fellowship Fund.
A day for the richness of Tamil culture to be shared, learnt and embraced with other communities in our borough and a celebration for everyone, no cost, just community and joy.
Hoisting of the Pongal Flag at William Morris Gallery
14 January 2026 at 1:30pm
William Morris Gallery, E17 4PP
A special flag will be hoisted by the Waltham Forest Tamil Sangam at William Morris Gallery to mark the official date of the Pongal Harvest Festival on Wednesday 14 January 2026. It will keep flying until the end of January 2026.
Pongal Celebration - Harvest Festival
24 January 2026 at 10:30am
Bedford Road Car Park, E17 4PZ and William Morris Gallery, E17 4PP
Begin the day with the traditional Pongal harvest celebration, where the community gathers to cook and share the sweet rice dish symbolising prosperity and unity. Celebrations will continue at William Morris Gallery, where the entranceway will be decorated and the Tamil school will be running activities for children on the Gallery’s First Floor Landing, available throughout the day.
Tamil Language & Antiquity Exhibition
24 January 2026 at 2pm
Lea Bridge Library, E10 7HU
Discover the depth and history of Tamil culture at the new exhibition venue, featuring stalls on Tamil antiquity, Tamil language and literature, and their legacy today.
Tamil Heritage Month Cultural Evening
24 January 2026 at 5pm
Frederick Bremer School, E17 4EY
Finish the day with a vibrant cultural evening, celebrating Tamil music, dance, storytelling and tradition. Guests will be able to enjoy a vibrant variety of cultural performances.