What is Diwali?

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

Diwali Display

Date: Wednesday, 4 November - Sunday, 8 November
Time: During opening hours
Location: Level 2, near Uniqlo

Diwali Gift Stalls with South Sydney Indian Association

We are delighted to partner with the South Sydney Indian Association (SSIA) for the second year running to bring the spirit of Diwali to Westfield Hurstville!

SSIA, a local not-for-profit organisation (INC1700025), will be showcasing a beautiful selection of Diwali gifts, festive decorations, traditional clothing, jewellery, goodies and more.
Come along, discover something special and support a local community organisation. Every purchase helps SSIA continue its work in bringing our community together.

Dates: Thursday, 5 November - Friday, 6 November & Sunday, 8 November 2026
Times: 5 November: 11am – 3pm , 6 November: 11am – 6pm , 8 November: 11am – 2pm
Location: Level 2, opposite Uniqlo

Shop local, celebrate tradition and spread the joy of Diwali!

Dance Performance from Bandana Cultural School

Date: Sunday, 8 November
Time: 1pm - 2pm
Location: Level 2, near Cotton On

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 about Akshaya here!