The annual festival of lights is celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs across the world and symbolises the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and hope over despair. 

Also known as Deepavali, Diwali is a time to light lamps and candles, have fun with loved ones, exchange gifts and sweets, feed the poor and clean the house. 

Deakin’s free family-friendly event, with support from the City of Greater Geelong, will again feature breathtaking fireworks at 9pm, cultural performances, music, food and market stalls and colourful henna art. 

The traditional Indian art of Rangoli will return, creating brilliant patterns on the ground using coloured powders, rice flour, sand, flower petals and other materials.

There will be free parking available at the campus.

Registration is a must to ensure entry.

Reserve a spot

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM 

The festival brings millions of people together and is an annual reminder to be kind and generous.

Diwali is a special festival that spreads positivity around the globe and is important to many community members here in Greater Geelong.

Deakin has a long and proud history of hosting Diwali festivities and helping people of all backgrounds celebrate.

I’m looking forward to returning to this joyous event, meeting community members, eating delicious food and watching the spectacular fireworks.

Deakin’s new Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Susan Elliott AM

I look forward to experiencing the vibrancy, colour and joy of the Deakin Diwali Festival at the Waurn Ponds campus for the first time. 

We are proud and excited to welcome everyone to our stunning Waurn Ponds campus for this free community event in celebration of generosity, renewal and inclusion.

This celebration, with its cultural performances, fine food and music, is a longstanding tradition at Deakin and a wonderful expression of the diversity of Geelong’s community.

For more than three decades, Deakin’s relationship with India has been rich and enduring.

Since first establishing operations in New Delhi in 1994, the University has built strong strategic partnerships with the country's leading research organisations, academic institutions and corporations, while fostering deep connections with its people.