Diwali, Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is the Festival of Lights, celebrated through diverse traditions across South Asia and its diasporas. While meanings and customs vary across regions and religions, shared themes of light, hope, renewal, generosity and new beginnings bring families and communities together over several days of celebration.

Parramatta will shine brightly for Diwali, with celebrations bringing colour, flavour and community spirit to our City. Discover what’s on in Parramatta this Diwali. 
 

Five young performers in colourful costumes pose joyfully outdoors, under a sunny sky. Lush trees and event tents are visible in the background.

Parramatta Farmers Markets with Diwali Flair

Wednesday 4 and 11 November, Centenary Square

Add a touch of Diwali sparkle to your week at the Parramatta Farmers Markets. Enjoy colourful cultural performances, activities and the flavours of India. 

A large crowd gathers beneath a colorful festival arch outside modern glass buildings, creating a lively, festive street scene in the city.

Step into the Dazzling Diwali Installation

21 October - 13 November, Parramatta Square

Celebrate Diwali in the heart of Parramatta Square with a stunning installation that radiates colour, culture and festive spirit. Whether you're soaking up the vibrant atmosphere or capturing a magical moment, this captivating display will elevate your experience, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for families and loved ones to come together and share in the joy of Diwali.

A henna artist applies intricate dark floral and lace patterns to a woman’s hand, creating an intimate, careful moment of traditional body art.

Celebrate Diwali at your local library

2 - 6 November

Celebrate Diwali with stories, colour and creativity at your local library. Enjoy Diwali Story Time, rangoli and lantern crafts, and traditional henna art. 

Friends in colorful traditional outfits laugh, sing, and dance at a festive gathering, framed by orange drapes, flower garlands, and warm decor.

Kerfew Day Party

8 November, Powerhouse Parramatta

Kerfew curate this rooftop day party on Diwali in celebration of Bharti Kher’s new public artwork Tree of Life. Echoing the iconic day raves thrown by the UK South Asian diaspora in the 80s and 90s, Kerfew Day Party is a celebration of the sounds, dances and community practices that connect South Asian communities across Western Sydney.

8 November, Powerhouse Parramatta

British Indian contemporary artist Bharti Kher discusses her Powerhouse Parramatta commission Tree of Life, its symbolic references to multiculturalism, and how the Totem serves as a connection between the living and spiritual worlds for Powerhouse Parramatta.

Harris Park is a buzzing multicultural neighbourhood with a friendly village-like atmosphere, known by many as Little India. Wander through spice stores, sweet shops and colourful boutiques. Discover everything from traditional ingredients to festive treats, and enjoy flavours from across the globe. Whether you're shopping for celebration essentials or simply exploring, Harris Park offers a joyful Diwali experience for all.  

Explore Local Community Diwali Events

Sunday 1 November, Prince Alfred Square

Presented by Opera Entertainment Australia

Join the community for Diwali Mela Parramatta, a free community-organised celebration filled with cultural activities, a Ramayan performance, live music, food and merchandise stalls. 

Saturday 7 November, Little India – Harris Park

Presented by AMA Event Management

Celebrate Diwali in the heart of Little India at this free independently organised community event, bringing together food, live performances, market stalls, family activities and cultural traditions.