Celebrating new beginnings, the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, Diwali is known as the Festival of Lights around the world.
And in Melbourne, Diwali will be celebrated at the Immigration Museum with live music, dance performances and plenty of family fun activities in October.
Across two special events, Diwali Up Late and Diwali Kids Fest, the Immigration Museum will come alive with the colour, sights and sounds of this popular festival.
Festival goers are encouraged to wear their dancing shoes to really appreciate the live music and dress in their favourite festival fashions for the Best Dressed competition
No matter the weather, the array of indoor and outdoor activities at Diwali Kids Fest on Sunday, 15 October will delight the whole family. Henna painting, rangoli art, kids craft and live performances by local dance groups and musicians will run between the festival hours of 11am and 4pm. There is even the opportunity to learn how to wear a sari or participate in Bollywood dance workshops presented in partnership with Confluence Festival.
Festival goers are encouraged to wear their dancing shoes to really appreciate the live music and dress in their favourite festival fashions for the Best Dressed competition to be presented by Richi Madan, host of the Mumbai Masala show on PBS FM.
Diwali Up Late will see Melbourne Band The Fifths take over the museum on Friday 20 October with their unique blend of ‘Electro Pop meets Bollywood’ tunes.
This special up-late museum event is sure to get revellers dancing as they wander the museum with a Diwali beverage in hand. Indian Beers, wine and cocktails, and a selection of light snacks will be on offer.
Set times for Diwali Up Late:
- The Fifths: 7.30pm-8.15pm
- DJ set: 8.30pm-9.15pm
- The Fifths: 9.30pm-10.15pm (final set)
A henna painting salon will create body art designs at no extra cost.
Exhibition areas at the Immigration Museum will be open from 6pm for Diwali Up Late
The Immigration Museum is at 400 Flinders St, Melbourne. Diwali Kids Fest is on Sunday, 15 October, 11am-4pm; Tickets are priced at $14 for adults, free for member/student/concession. Diwali Up Late is on Friday, 20 October, 6-10pm; Tickets are priced at: $15 for adults, $10 for member/student/concession. For more details click here.
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