Experience the magic of Diwali also known as “The Festival of lights” is expected to draw over 1500 attendees. Join us celebrating Dunedin Diwali with
- Traditional dance performances
- Delicious food stalls
- Cultural workshops (Henna, Saree draping)
- And much more
Let’s come together to celebrate diversity and community spirit.
We look forward to seeing you there!
A free-friendly event by The Rout Group & Swift Mortgages.
Interested in becoming a partner?
Music & Performances
Immerse yourself in a captivating world of dance and music festival. Experience a stunning array of performances across various styles featuring incredible artists that showcase the rich tapestry of Indian culture and Dunedin’s diverse Indian communities.
Food and activity stalls
Indulge your senses at our Diwali festival in Dunedin. Savor authentic Indian cuisine, explore traditional arts and crafts like henna and saree draping, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as Dunedin comes alive with the spirit of Diwali. From cultural performances to delicious food stalls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Festival Information
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Diwali at our Dunedin festival. Enjoy a diverse range of Indian performances, from traditional dance to contemporary music. Indulge your taste buds with a delicious selection of sweet and savory delicacies. Explore a vibrant henna tattoo, saree draping, games and fun activities.
Dunedin Indian Association present The Rout Group Diwali in association with
Swift Mortgages is free, family-friendly, smoke-free, alcohol-free event.
Festival Hours - 3 PM – 8 PM on 26th October 2025
Festival Address: More FM Arena, Edgar Centre, 116 Portsmouth Drive, Anderson Bay, Dunedin
Diwali: The Festival of Lights
Inspired by the ancient Indian festival of Diwali, or Deepavali, our Dunedin Diwali event celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and the renewal of life. This cherished tradition, known as the “Festival of Lights,” is celebrated throughout India and by Indian communities worldwide.
Behind the Dunedin Diwali Festival
The Rout Group Diwali in association with Swift Mortgages is proudly organized by the Dunedin Indian Association, dedicated to promoting Indian culture and fostering community connections in the region. We are committed to creating a vibrant and inclusive event that celebrates the spirit of Diwali and showcases the rich diversity of our Indian community.
About Our Sponsors
We are delighted to acknowledge the generous support of our Sponsors:
The Rout Group of Dunedin, Swift Mortgages and Swift Mortgages Dunedin. Their contributions have been instrumental in making this Dunedin Diwali Festival a reality.
We are deeply grateful for the generous grant awarded to us by the Dunedin City Council’s and Ethnic Community Development Fund. Their support has been invaluable in making this Dunedin Diwali Festival a success.
We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to our Gold Sponsor: High Commission of India Wellington, Pizza Hut Dunedin, Port Otago and Prudent Life Insurance, Christchurch. Silver Sponsors: SBS Bank, Dunedin Airport, Arizto Real Estate, Toptier Solutions Limited, AVG orthodontics, Zealand Immigrations, Too Indian, Ferry Indian. Their contributions have played a significant role in ensuring the vibrancy and success of our event. Bronze sponsor: LS Jewels, Golden Centre Mall, Mela Eatery, Mr Whippy, Heart Foundation – Otago.
Apply to be a performer at The Rout Group Diwali in association with Swift Mortgages Festival 2025
A dazzling array of renowned cultural groups will take to the stage, showcasing Bollywood, classical and semiclassical dance forms, Gujarati Garba, Punjabi Giddha and Bhangra, instrumentals and vocals.
Performer applications are now closed
Dunedin Diwali Festival is Returning!
We are thrilled to announce that the Dunedin Diwali Festival will be held on 26th October 2025, celebrating the vibrant spirit of Indian culture.
Highlights of the Festival:
- Diverse Stage Performances: Enjoy a captivating array of performances showcasing traditional and contemporary Indian dance and music.
- Food, Games & Activities: Explore the delicious food stalls, henna tattoos, saree draping, selfie corner, fun and engaging games and informative exhibits.
- Community Engagement: Connect with local Dunedin communities and participate in interactive activities.
“The Big Fat Indian Wedding” A cultural Fashion Show
Prepare to be mesmerized by a stunning fashion show showcasing the vibrant and diverse cultural attire of India. Witness captivating dance performances and intricate hook steps as couples grace the runway, representing the unique styles of various Indian regions.
Expression of Interest
To apply, please submit your application by [14 October 2025].
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdkiT_Bs4IkfzVGSqtGFU7-oXlqhoHv3PPpXQb1VW5x9fmMcg/viewform?usp=dialog
Call for Performers:
We invite talented performers to showcase their skills at the Dunedin Diwali Festival. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring artist, we welcome applications from all levels of experience.
Performer applications https://forms.gle/Zj9cAEHtzkEr1if58
Performance Categories:
- Main Stage Performances: Showcase your talents on our main stage, captivating audiences with your artistry.
Become a Diwali Volunteer!
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help make the Dunedin Diwali Festival a memorable success. Your support is essential in ensuring the smooth running of various activities, from managing food stalls and maintaining the event space to organizing games and engaging with attendees.
To volunteer, please fill out the following form:
Let’s come together to celebrate Diwali and create a vibrant community experience.
Join Us for a Spectacular Celebration!
We look forward to welcoming you to the Dunedin Diwali Festival, a vibrant celebration of Indian culture and community.
Apply to be a Stall holder at The Rout Group Diwali Festival 2025 in association with Swift Mortgages
Stall Holder Applications Now Open https://forms.gle/oXwghNTb7SX8eJ11A
A Diverse Marketplace Awaits
One of the highlights of the Dunedin Diwali Festival is the vibrant and diverse range of stallholders offering a unique experience. From Henna Tattoo to Saree draping, games and activities to delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Festival Details:
- Date: 26th October 2025
- Location: More FM Arena, Edgar Centre
- Hours: 3 PM – 8 PM
There are 5 types of stalls available this year:
- Food
- Beverage
- Retail (perfumes, Jewelery etc.)
- Henna (specialty stall)
- Information
Join us for a day filled with cultural exploration and delightful finds.
Sponsors
