Community
Excitement is building across the region as preparations continue for the Pride Property Southland Diwali Festival 2025 — a spectacular celebration of light, culture, and community spirit.
The festival will transform ILT Stadium Southland on Saturday, 8 November 2025, from 11 am to 5 pm, into a vibrant showcase of music, dance, and delicious food, bringing people from all backgrounds together to celebrate the spirit of Diwali. It is a free, family-friendly event, welcoming people of all ages to celebrate the spirit of Diwali together.
Headlining this year’s event is Shivam Dance Academy from Wellington — a renowned group that has performed at New Zealand Parliament’s Diwali celebrations. Their high-energy performances will be joined by colourful acts from the Fijian, Filipino, Samoan, and Chinese communities, as well as talented local performers from Southland.
Indian Community Southland Inc. President, Prashant Chaddha, said the event has grown into one of Southland’s most anticipated multicultural celebrations.
“Diwali is a festival of light, hope, and unity. This year’s event reflects that through performances, art, and food that celebrate both Indian traditions and Southland’s diverse community,” he said.
Families can look forward to a full day of entertainment, including kids’ cultural performances, a magic show, bouncy castle, face painting, and a photo booth. A variety of authentic Indian cuisines from different regions will be available, offering visitors a true taste of India.
The Southland Diwali Festival 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience — celebrating light over darkness, joy over sorrow, and unity in diversity.
The Diwali Festival is set to transform ILT Stadium Southland into a vibrant celebration of music, dance and delicious food on:
📅 Saturday, 8 November 2025
🕚 11am – 5pm
📍 ILT Stadium Southland
This is a free, family-friendly event where people of all ages and backgrounds are invited to come together and celebrate the spirit of Diwali. 🌟👨👩👧👦