Langley Park burst into colour, music and celebration as more than 50,000 people gathered for the Indian Society of Western Australia’s (ISWA) Diwali Mela on 31 October and 1 November 2026.
Set beside the Swan River, the two-day festival brought together people from across Western Australia to celebrate the Festival of Lights through cultural performances, food, family activities and community connection.
More than 500 volunteers helped bring the event to life, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
Performances by 16 multicultural groups showcased the diversity of Western Australia. Among Saturday’s standout moments was a spectacular display by more than 80 Garba dancers, whose colourful costumes and energetic rhythms captivated spectators.
On Sunday, a vibrant multicultural welcome procession filled the grounds with the powerful sounds of Japanese taiko drumming and the traditional rhythms of Chenda Melam.
The excitement extended overhead as the Perth Skydiving Team descended carrying a giant Australian flag, accompanied by a scarf in the Indian tricolour. Cheers rose from the crowd as the skydivers approached the festival grounds.
Visitors explored an extensive selection of vegetarian Indian cuisine alongside shopping, community information stalls and cultural exhibitions. Free activities, including golf simulators, a West Coast Eagles activation zone, face painting, henna and a large photobooth, added to the family appeal.
The festival welcomed political, diplomatic and civic representatives across both days, including Rita Saffioti, Amber-Jade Sanderson, Jessica Stojkovski, Basil Zempilas, Sam Lim, Zaneta Mascarenhas, Sue Lines, Varun Ghosh and Kajari Biswas.
In the opening address, ISWA’s President reflected on the meaning of Diwali and the organisation’s longstanding commitment to bringing communities together.
“Diwali reminds us that light is strongest when it is shared,” the President said.
The address traced the mela’s growth from a small gathering into a major cultural celebration, while acknowledging the community partnerships that support ISWA’s work throughout the year.
The Diwali Mela raffle added to the festivities, offering 20 prizes with a combined value exceeding $17,000. ISWA thanked its members, member organisations, volunteers, performers, stallholders, vendors and visitors for helping make the event a success.
As fireworks illuminated the Swan River each evening, thousands shared a celebration of light, belonging and cultural pride. For families and friends gathered at Langley Park, the weekend offered a joyful reminder of the connections that make Western Australia’s multicultural community thrive.
