The streets of Rockdale will come alive with music, dancing, spectacular light displays and the irresistible aromas of Indian cuisine when Bayside Council’s Diwali Festival returns to King Street Mall on Saturday 7th November.
Running from 5pm to 10pm, the free community celebration will bring together families, food lovers and culture enthusiasts for an evening inspired by Diwali, India’s much-loved Festival of Lights.
Experience Bollywood performances, traditional dance showcases, energetic dhol drummers, colourful rangoli displays and plenty of delicious food, with activities for younger visitors making it an easy evening out for the whole family.
Bollywood dancing, dhol drummers and a night of colour
There will be plenty happening across the festival site, with a lively program of multicultural music, cultural showcases and dance performances taking over the main stage throughout the evening.
Bollywood dancing will bring plenty of energy to the celebrations, while traditional performances will showcase the richness of Indian culture. Away from the stage, roaming entertainers and dhol drummers will keep the atmosphere buzzing, bringing the sounds of traditional Indian percussion directly to festivalgoers.
Dazzling light displays will add to the atmosphere, creating a colourful backdrop for an evening celebrating one of India’s most significant cultural festivals.
Food lovers will also have plenty to look forward to, with a variety of multicultural and local food vendors serving dishes throughout the evening.
Sort through traditional Indian favourites and festive sweet treats, including popular delights such as jalebi, a crispy, syrup-soaked sweet, almond burfi and soan papdi. Visitors can grab a bite, satisfy their sweet tooth and soak up the atmosphere as Rockdale transforms into a lively outdoor celebration.
Henna art, rangoli and activities for kids
Families will find plenty to keep the little ones entertained, with Diwali-themed craft activities, interactive workshops and opportunities to explore traditional art forms.
Visitors can experience henna art and admire vibrant rangoli displays. Rangoli is a traditional Indian decorative art form that uses colourful patterns to brighten entrances and spaces, particularly during festive celebrations.
It’s also an opportunity for children and adults alike to discover more about the traditions behind Diwali, while getting involved in the festivities themselves.
And if you’re planning to attend, Council is encouraging visitors to dress in their brightest colours and embrace the celebratory spirit.
A celebration of Bayside’s cultural diversity
Beyond the entertainment, the festival celebrates the cultural diversity that makes Bayside such a vibrant part of Sydney.
Bayside Mayor Edward McDougall said the event offered an opportunity for families and friends to come together while bringing fresh energy to Rockdale’s town centre. “Bayside’s Diwali Festival is a wonderful occasion for family and friends to come together for a memorable night that will light up Rockdale’s town centre,” Mayor McDougall said.
“It is also part of Council’s ongoing plan to reinvigorate our town centres and create more opportunities for late-night trading, entertainment and community engagement,” he said.
Entry is free, including all stage entertainment and roaming performances, making it an accessible night out for locals and visitors.
Getting there
King Street Mall is a five-minute walk from Rockdale Train Station, with bus routes 422, 453, 473, 476, 477, 478, 479, 492 and 493 also servicing the area. Nearby parking is available on Market Street and York Street.
Road closures: King Street, Market Street and King Lane will close from 7am Saturday, 7th November until 1am Sunday, 8th November. Public transport is recommended.
The festival site has accessible footpaths and toilets, limited public seating, and welcomes small and medium-sized dogs on leads.
Key details
- What: Bayside Diwali Festival 2026
- When: Saturday 7 November 2026, 5pm–10pm
- Where: King Street Mall, Rockdale
- Cost: Free entry
- Parking: Nearby parking is available on Market Street and York Street
- Accessibility: Accessible footpaths and toilets are available
