Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights — a celebration of good over evil — is being celebrated in Austin beginning this weekend!  The official date for Diwali this year is November 12, but it can be celebrated any time from mid-October to mid-November.  We have four upcoming family-friendly Diwali events to share with you, and please let us know at [email protected] or in the comments below if you know of more events to add!

Photo by Aarti Photography via Round Rock Diwali Festival

Round Rock Diwali Festival 2023 @ Centennial Plaza
Saturday, Oct. 28 | 3 pm – 10 pm | 301 W. Bagdad Ave | FREE
At the Round Rock Diwali Festival,  experience the magic of this celebration as a fun fest for all families in the community.  This annual, free event features more than 50 performances by 600+ performers, a Diya lighting ceremony, a Bollywood Dance Workshop, an India Bazaar with Henna Tattoos, Jewelry, clothing, home decor, and much more.  Check here for the full itinerary, here for a full list of 2023 vendors (including food court vendors), and here for (free!) parking info.


Ramleela and Ravan’s Katha Performance Celebrating South-Asian Culture and Diwali Stories
Saturday, Oct. 28 | Noon – 1 pm | 5125 Convict Hill Rd | FREE with RSVP
Diwali is HERE and everyone is invited to this cultural and literary storytelling experience. The event is open to ALL families and individuals who would like to celebrate Diwali with everyone!  Families will enjoy a mini-Ramleela and Ravan’s Lost Boon Katha performance. This is a unique way to celebrate South-Asian culture and Diwali stories with the entire family.  Families and kids will also get together to make some Diwali Greeting Cards and can win signed book giveaways!  The event is FREE for families to attend, but RSVP, so we can plan for your book giveaways and supplies.


2023 Diwali Celebration
Nov. 11 | 3 pm – 6 pm | 1614 East 7th Street | FREE with RSVP
Join the fun for an unforgettable evening of vibrant festivities celebrating the joyous festival of lights, Diwali! There will be a delightful array of activities and treats to immerse you in the magic of Indian culture right on our lively streets.

Event Highlights:

  • Henna Artists: Experience the intricate and beautiful art of henna as skilled artists adorn your hands and arms with traditional Indian designs.
  • Indian Street Food Delights: Indulge your taste buds in an explosion of flavors with our scrumptious Indian street food prepared by Nasha.
  • Chai Corner: Sip on warm, aromatic chai and embrace the true essence of Indian hospitality.
  • Bollywood Flash Mob: Get ready to groove and dance to the energetic beats of Bollywood music!
  • Benefitting: Children’s Miracle Network

Leander Diwali Festival 2023 @ Lakewood Park
Saturday, Nov. 4 | 3 pm – 9 pm | 2040 Artesian Spgs Xing, Leander | FREE with RSVP
Get excited for Leander’s first inaugural Diwali Celebration!  This event is free for all ages and will include cultural performances, a variety of mouth-watering food stalls, a DJ, vendors, and more.  RSVP and get more info here.


Have we missed any family-friendly Diwali events?  Let us know at [email protected]