This year, Diwali falls on Sunday 8 November. Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights, one of the biggest festivals in India and around the world. Celebrated over a five-day period, it usually falls in October or November. For Hindus, Jains and Sikhs, it symbolises “good over evil” and is a time for reflection, renewal and gratitude, with a strong focus on family and community. During Diwali, people clean their homes and decorate with lights and colourful patterns. It is common to wear new clothes for the festival, exchange gifts and prepare meals for loved ones.

Diwali is celebrated over five days in the following order:

Dhanteras – Start of Diwali and a day dedicated to cleaning to Welcome Goddess Lakshmi. To celebrate Dhanteras, people traditionally buy gold and new kitchen utensils.

Naraka Chaturdasi/Choti Diwali – Known as ‘Little Diwali’. Coloured artwork ‘Rangoli’ is created in doorways and courtyard of homes along with the opening of fire crackers.

Diwali – Placement of lights and lamps across households.

Celebrate with us

Fountain Gate Hotel: Celebrate Diwali at Diyas & Diamonds

Looking for a vibrant community event to celebrate Diwali with family and friends? Diyas & Diamonds is coming to Fountain Gate Hotel, Westfield Fountain Gate, bringing the local community together for a special day of culture, connection and festive celebrations.

Curated by Privé Events Melbourne, Diyas & Diamonds celebrates the spirit of Diwali by bringing together local businesses, cultural experiences and the wider community for a memorable festive gathering in Melbourne’s South East. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, children’s activities and face painting, while discovering a curated collection of independent businesses showcasing Indian fashion, couture, jewellery, beauty, gifts, homewares and festive treasures.

Dates Sunday 1 November

Time: 12:00pm - 8:00pm

Location: Fountain Gate Hotel

Entry: Free

Bookings: Book your spot here.

Find out more here >

Meet Akshaya Bhutka

To commemorate the festival, Akshaya Bhutkar has crafted textile designs which celebrate the occasion and they are featured in Westfield’s Diwali creative. Akshaya is a Sydney-based artist and fashion designer who is passionate about infusing more Bollywood culture into Australian wardrobes through her designs. We caught up with Akshaya to learn more about her creation, titled ‘Sweet Escape’ and to hear about her family’s Diwali traditions.

Find out more here >