Auckland Diwali Festival 2012

Overview

This weekend Aotea Square will be awash with colour and sparkling with the lights of Diwali, a time for friends and family to come together and celebrate the sound, taste and spice of India.

Perhaps the most important and ancient of the Indian festivals, Diwali or 'Festival of lights' signifies the triumph of good over evil, dark over light and the renewal of life. Diwali, which literally translates as 'row of lamps', commemorates the defeat of demon-king Ravana and the return of the exiled Lord Rama. Villagers celebrated by lighting fireworks and  diys (clay lamps) to guide Lord Rama on his journey home.

The two-day Auckland Diwali Festival is an exciting opportunity to experience Indian culture. Take the train in to Britomart and walk the Diwali trail, from QEII Square up Queen St to Aotea Square. Be entertained by traditional and modern Indian music and dance, from local and international performers. Then take a wander through the craft market and food stalls offering a tantalising selection of Indian curries and sweets, open from midday through till 9pm.

After sampling Indian delights, discover more about Indian culture in one of the talks or workshops being held in the Aotea Centre. Watch traditional Rangoli floor art being made with coloured rice and spices or learn about traditional Indian musical instruments. And of course, on Sunday evening there'll be a fireworks display to top it all off.