Special Issue · 20th Vaisakhi · The Yorkshire Sikh ForumWednesday, 20 May 2026 · Bradford
Established Bradford · 1989 · By the Sangat for the Sangat

The Yorkshire

Sikh Forum

Founded 1989The Sikh Community Voice of YorkshireVaisakhi · MMXXVI
Lead Story · Special Edition

The 20th Annual Vaisakhi.

On Wednesday 20 May 2026, the Yorkshire Sikh Forum convenes its 20th Annual Vaisakhi — a milestone gathering of families, civic friends and the wider sangat from across all twelve Yorkshire chapters. Founded in Bradford in 1989 by Dr Nirmal Singh Sekhon MBE FRSA, the Forum has marked Vaisakhi every year as the heartbeat of its community calendar.

This year's programme brings together kirtan, the Chairman's address, civic recognition, langar and cultural performances from the Forum's youth and women's networks. Attendance is free, and Youth and Women's members attend at no cost as part of the Forum's commitment to community access.

Countdown · 20 May 2026

The day draws near.

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Days
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Hours
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Minutes
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Seconds
Free for Youth & Women members
The Order of the Evening

The programme.

Programme subject to final committee confirmation.

6:00 PM
01
Doors open · Welcome

Reception, tea and conversation in the foyer.

6:30 PM
02
Ardas & Opening

The evening opens with prayer and a community welcome.

7:00 PM
03
Kirtan

Devotional music from invited ragis and Yorkshire jathas.

7:45 PM
04
From the Chairman

An address by Dr Nirmal Singh Sekhon MBE FRSA, Founder & Chairman.

8:15 PM
05
Civic recognition & sponsor thank-yous

Acknowledging civic guests, partners and sponsors of the 20th Vaisakhi.

8:45 PM
06
Langar

Community meal served to all attendees.

9:30 PM
07
Cultural programme

Performances from across the Forum's twelve Yorkshire chapters.

10:30 PM
08
Close

Closing remarks and farewells.

The RSVP · No Payment Required

Reserve your place.

A short form for the guest list. We'll follow up with the final programme, venue address and any updates closer to the day.

No payment required. Free for Youth & Women members.

Sponsors of the 20th Vaisakhi

Stand with the Forum.

This year's Vaisakhi is supported by Sikh-owned businesses and civic friends from across Yorkshire. Sponsorship enquiries are open until the day of the event.

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Your logo here
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Your logo here
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Your logo here
Sponsor this event →Email sponsors@yorkshiresikhforum.org
Where · When · How

The practical details.

Date
Wed 20 May 2026
Doors 6:00 PM · Close 10:30 PM
Venue
Bradford
Full address confirming · check back soon
Entry
Free
Free for Youth & Women members
Dress
Smart traditional
Head covering required in prayer hall
Add to calendar

Save the date directly to Apple Calendar, Google Calendar or Outlook.

Download .ics
Share with friends

Spread the word — every chapter of Yorkshire is invited.

Scan to share the RSVP
QR code linking to the Vaisakhi 2026 RSVP page

Print and pin to your gurdwara or community board.

Frequently Asked

Common questions.

What's the dress code?+

Smart traditional or smart casual. Heads should be covered in the prayer hall — scarves and patkas will be available at the door if you don't bring your own.

Is there parking at the venue?+

Parking guidance will be confirmed once the venue is finalised. We'll email all attendees with directions, parking and public transport options at least a week before the event.

Are children welcome?+

Yes — Vaisakhi is a family event and children of all ages are very welcome. There will be a quiet space available if needed.

Will there be vegetarian and allergen-aware food?+

Langar is fully vegetarian, as is tradition. Tell us about allergies or intolerances on the RSVP form and we'll make sure the kitchen team is aware on the night.

What accessibility provision is there?+

Please tell us about wheelchair access, seating, hearing-loop or other needs on the RSVP form. The committee will get in touch directly to confirm arrangements.

Another question? Email events@yorkshiresikhforum.org.

— The Forum's 27 Committee Members —
— Proudly Supported by Our Community Sponsors · £3,500 raised