Experience India's most popular festival in Auckland

Come and soak up the fantastic atmosphere of India's most popular and vibrant festival - Diwali - at the Viaduct Harbour on 10 and 11 October from noon to 10pm.

Diwali, also known as Deepavali (row of lamps), is an annual free festival which regularly attracts thousands of visitors to the city centre with its high energy, colour and authenticity.

Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee chairperson, Councillor Greg Moyle, says the festival of lights gives Auckland's Indian communities the opportunity to share this much-loved cultural tradition with their families and others.

"This event celebrates not only the traditions of Diwali, but Indian culture as a whole," says Mr Moyle.

Highlights of the free festival include the colourful, lively and laugh-out-loud funny Rajasthani puppets, traditional and contemporary performances from local and international artists, a Bollywood dance competition, fashion shows, craft and food stalls, spectacular decorations and a fireworks display (10pm, Sunday).

Auckland City Council is giving Diwali patrons $3 off their parking at Downtown car park building during the festival weekend. Simply download a special coupon from the Diwali page on www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/events and hand it in at the cashier's office.

Diwali is organised by Auckland City Council in partnership with Asia NZ.

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