Top Indian Festivals in Australia & Where to Celebrate Them?

Last Updated on Apr 29th, 2026 by Neha Sharma, Leave a Comment

If your idea of Australia revolves around beaches and barbeques, you are in for a surprise. Festivals from India are turning the cities of Australia into energetic, exciting centres of colour, music, and delicious food. This has become possible because of the presence of a large and blooming Indian community in Australia. 

Cities like Brisbane and Perth host some of the best festivals. Indian festivals are for everyone, not just Indians. The Indian festivals have both modern and traditional elements, which make each festival unique in its own way. 

Let’s see how Indian festivals bring joy & culture to Australia!

Why Have Indian Festivals Become a Big Part of Australian Life? 

Australia considers itself among the most international countries in the world, and Indian culture forms an important part of it. The Indian community is one of the fastest-growing communities in Australia, and it can be found in great numbers in cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.

Of course, the festivals soon followed suit. Where initially the festivals were small affairs held at temples and community centers, today they have developed into some of the biggest cultural events in the Australian social calendar. They have been supported by local authorities, state governments, and arts organizations through sponsorships and the provision of venues, including Federation Square, Darling Harbour, and South Bank Parklands.

This has led to fabulous events that are not only free but also memorable for life.

1. Diwali: The Festival of Lights

What Is Diwali?

Diwali, which also goes by the name of Deepavali, is commonly viewed as the most important festival for Hindus worldwide. It is a five-day festivity that represents the success of light over darkness, wisdom over ignorance, and virtue over vice. The festival entails lighting oil lamps known as ‘diyas,’ decorating one’s home with rangoli, exchanging sweets & presents, and worshipping Goddess Lakshmi, who is considered the goddess of wealth!

Unlike many other celebrations, Diwali adheres to the Hindu lunar calendar. This indicates that its date changes annually, ranging from mid-October to mid-November. 

Where to Celebrate Diwali in Australia? 

Sydney – Diwali has been celebrated in Darling Harbour in the form of an event that attracts around ten thousand people. The Sydney Opera House has been decorated with gold lighting in the past during Diwali, & this sight was simply marvelous.

Perth – The Diwali Mela in Langley Park in Perth is one of the most popular celebrations among families, with free entry and fireworks as well as stalls for food and entertainment.

Adelaide, Canberra, and Gold Coast – These cities celebrate Diwali with events like pujas, cultural activities, etc.

Tasmania – Even in Tasmania, Diwali has been celebrated with festivities in Hobart at Princes Wharf.

Public celebrations of Diwali are usually free!

2. Holi: The Festival of Colours

What Is Holi?

If Diwali is the festival of light, then Holi is the festival of color and absolute happiness. Holi is celebrated in the month of early March (the exact date varies according to the Hindu lunar calendar), when the spring season begins & righteousness wins over evil. The custom includes applying a colorful powder, referred to as “gulal,” to anyone who comes your way, including family members, friends, and even strangers!

The day after Holi is the celebration of color, which starts with a traditional bonfire called ‘Holika Dahan.’ In Hindu culture, the festival also honors the legendary Prahlad and the demon Holika.

Where to Celebrate Holi in Australia? 

Sydney – The Holi Festival held in Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour, lasts for two days, usually in early March. It is marketed as being one of the largest Holi celebrations in the Southern Hemisphere.

Melbourne – The Holi Festival Melbourne, celebrated at the Ron Barassi Senior Park in Docklands in front of the Melbourne city skyline and Bolte Bridge, is a major event held over two full days. This festival takes place along with another Holi festival held in Federation Square.

Brisbane – In Brisbane, many Holi celebrations take place during the month of early March, mainly focused on the main day, Rangwali Holi.

Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra – These three cities all have Holi festivals organized by the community groups.

Entry to most events is cheap or free, usually around $10-$20 AUD.

SUGGESTED – Vibrant events in Australia

3. Navratri and Garba Nights

What Is Navratri?

“Navratri” means “nine nights,” which are dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her nine divine forms. This festival is very spiritual & marks the victory of good over evil. Navratri normally takes place during the months of September & October.

Navratri is a deeply spiritual festival, but it also gained its popularity because of Garba & Dandiya Raas, the popular dances from Gujarat. These dances turn Navratri into a mix of a spiritual event and an awesome dance party. Both men and women wear traditional clothes; women wear colorful chaniya cholis, while men wear kediyus.

Where to Celebrate Garba in Australia? 

Sydney – Navratri is celebrated in Sydney by the Gujarati community, organizing grand Garba & Dandiya nights in places like halls in Parramatta & Harris Park, organized for the entire nine days, which attracts thousands of people.

Melbourne – Celebrated in Melbourne in suburbs like Werribee and Truganina, where the community organizes the traditional Garba nights with music performances.

Brisbane – The celebration of Navratri is conducted out in Brisbane with fun-filled Garba nights arranged by the Indian community organizations.

Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra – These cities also celebrate the festival of Navratri in the Indian cultural organizations.

Dressing up in traditional garb is highly recommended; you’ll have much more fun! It should be noted that many Garba performances are ticketed affairs and will cost between $20 and $50 AUD, depending on the event. 

4. Ganesh Chaturthi

What Is Ganesh Chaturthi?

The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi lasts for ten days and is observed as the birthday of Lord Ganesha, a loving God with the face of an elephant, symbolizing wisdom, victory & the removal of all hurdles. On this auspicious occasion, people make beautiful idols of Lord Ganesha and pray to Him by worshipping Him with sweet dumplings known as ‘modaks,’ which are his favorites.

This festival takes place in August/September every year.

Where to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in Australia? 

Sydney – One of the largest Ganesh Chaturthi festivals is held at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Sydney, apart from Ganesh Chaturthi festivals organized in communities in Homebush & Harris Park. It contains Sthapana & Visarjan ceremonies.

Melbourne – Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in Melbourne at Shree Swaminarayan Temple & other community-based functions that involve Ganesh pooja and cultural programs.

Brisbane – Ganesh Chaturthi is observed at various temples and Indian associations in Brisbane. Here, the devotees gather to perform the Ganesh pooja and participate in different festivities.

Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra – The Ganesh Chaturthi festival is seen in Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra by community organizations.

SUGGESTED – Best time to visit India from Australia

5. Baisakhi: The Punjabi Harvest Festival

What Is Baisakhi?

Baisakhi is the name given to a festival, which is celebrated mainly by Sikhs and Punjabis. The festival is an indicator of the onset of the spring harvest, which occurs annually on April 13 or April 14. Also, this festival is very significant to the Sikhs since it celebrates the formation of the Khalsa Panth in the year 1699.

The celebrations include the performance of Bhangra and Gidda dances; songs; praying in temples called Gurdwaras; and sharing community meals known as Langars.

Where to celebrate Baisakhi in Australia? 

Sydney – Sydney observes Baisakhi with Nagar Kirtan & festivities at places like Gurdwara Sahib Glenwood, where community feasts (langar) and cultural shows are organized.

Melbourne – Grand Baisakhi festivals are held in Melbourne at Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Sabha, which include parades, kirtan & performances by Punjabi artists.

Brisbane – Brisbane observes Baisakhi at its local Gurudwaras in religious services and community functions, along with langar.

Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra – These cities also organise Baisakhi at their local Gurudwaras with Nagar Kirtans and prayers. 

Suggested link: Top 24 places to do things in Australia!

6. Onam: Kerala’s Harvest Festival

What Is Onam?

The festival of Onam is the most important festival celebrated in Kerala, a 10-day harvest festival that remembers King Mahabali, who comes to earth annually. The festival is perhaps the most lovely of all Indian festivals, showing such highlights as the Pookalam (flower mats), the Onam Sadhya (a meal consisting of 26 dishes of vegetarian food eaten on banana leaves), and the Vallam Kali (boat races). 

Where to celebrate Onam in Australia? 

• Sydney – The festival of Onam is viewed in Sydney with grand celebrations organised by the Malayali community, involving Sadya (feast) and other cultural Various community centers in Parramatta and its surrounding areas organize programs.
• Melbourne – Melbourne sees major Onam celebrations that are conducted by various organizations belonging to Kerala, with Kathakali, Thiruvathira dances & other Onam Sadyas in the city.
• Brisbane – Brisbane celebrates Onam with several cultural events that are organized by the Malayali community in community centers.
• Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra – These cities also observe major Onam celebrations organized by Kerala organizations.

Do’s and Don’ts for Celebrating Indian Festivals in Australia!

Do’s	Don’ts
Come with an open mind – Every festival is different. Observe & enjoy the experience without thinking much.	Don’t treat it like just another party – There’s fun, but also religious meaning behind many events.
Dress for the event – Go for comfortable, light, and slightly traditional outfits if you can.	Don’t wear your best clothes to Holi – Colours can stain permanently. Stick to old clothes & enjoy.
Try the food – Festival food is a great part of the experience. Don’t miss snacks and sweets.	Don’t ignore basic etiquette – Things like removing shoes or dressing simply during rituals.
Join in the activities – Dance, play colours, or take part in events.	Don’t overdo photos or videos – Enjoy the moment instead of viewing everything through your phone.
Respect religious moments – Stay quiet during prayers or follow what others are doing. It shows respect.	Don’t guess all festivals are the same – Each one has its own traditions & way of celebrating.
Plan ahead – Check timings, book tickets if needed, and come early to avoid crowds.	Don’t come unprepared – Outdoor events can mean heat & crowds.

If you’re ever doubtful about something, just follow what others are doing. Indian festivals are welcoming, and people are usually eager to guide you!

Honestly, it’s even better in India: here’s how to get there!

Have a brief look at the routes below and find what works best for you.

With MyTicketsToIndia, you get simple options, excellent fares & no convenience fees, which makes the whole trip a lot smoother!!

• Bangalore To Adelaide Flights
• Chennai To Adelaide Flights
• Delhi To Melbourne Flights
• Goa To Melbourne Flights
• Bangalore To Perth Flights
• Kolkata To Perth Flights
• Chennai To Sydney Flights
• Cochin To Sydney Flights
• Ahmedabad To Brisbane Flights
• Amritsar To Brisbane Flights
• Ahmedabad To Australia Flights
• Amritsar To Australia Flights

To Sum Up!

The Indian migration in Australia has made a truly unique contribution to Australian culture by bringing with them the tradition of celebrating a range of fun and spiritually inspiring festivals during the year, which are available to all people regardless of their origin.

You can experience this wonderful sense of togetherness when you find yourself in the middle of a colorful storm during Holi in Darling Harbour, in the lighting ceremony organized for Diwali at Federation Square, or in one of the Garba circles celebrating Navratri in Melbourne.

It does not need any invitations or contacts; all you have to do is come along!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the most popular Indian festivals celebrated in Australia?

A: The popular Indian festivals in Australia include Diwali, Holi, Navratri, Ganesh Chaturthi, & India Day. Major cities across Australia broadly celebrate these festivals with large public events.

Q: Where can I attend Indian festivals in Australia?

A: You can attend Indian festivals in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, & Perth. Popular areas like Harris Park and Federation Square commonly host big celebrations.

Q: Are Indian festivals in Australia open to everyone?

A: Yes, most Indian festivals in Australia are open to everyone. There are global events where locals, tourists, & people from all backgrounds can join & enjoy the culture.

Q: Do I need tickets for Indian festivals in Australia?

A: Some events like Holi parties & Navratri nights need tickets that vary from AUD $15 to $60. However, many festivals, like Diwali & India Day events, are free to attend.

Q: What should I wear to Indian festivals in Australia?

A: Wear comfortable, colorful outfits. Traditional Indian wear is not required but adds to the experience. For Holi events, it’s best to wear old clothes, as colors can stain.

Q: When is the best time to experience Indian festivals in Australia?

A: Most major Indian festivals take place between August and November, making it the best time to experience multiple celebrations in Australia.

Q: What can I expect at Indian festivals in Australia?

A: Expect a lively atmosphere with music, dance, cultural performances, Indian street food, & community activities. Some events also cover religious rituals.

Q: Are Indian festivals in Australia family-friendly?

A: Yes, most events are family-friendly, with food stalls, performances, & activities suitable for all age groups.

*Disclaimer: All brand names and trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners and are used for educational purposes only. We do not promote, endorse, or criticise any brands. Their use is solely for reference and informational context.