Top tips on celebrating Diwali with proud local Debasree Das, @TravelinStylewithDebs
Whether you’re looking for festivals, feasting or outdoor adventures when family come to stay – there’s so much to enjoy in Werribee and Surrounds. Here are my top tips on where to go and things to do this Diwali!
Diwali Festivals in Werribee and Surrounds
A vibrant calendar of events invites both locals and visitors to join in the celebrations. From captivating dance performances and festive food to traditional arts and crafts, these events offer something for everyone and showcase the region’s rich cultural diversity.
Williams Landing Diwali Utsav,11 October
Tarneit Diwali in West, 12 October
Diwali Festival at Werribee Open Range Zoo, 18 – 19 October
Diwali Gala Dinner, 18 October
Free Diwali Lantern Making Activity in Tarneit, 18 October
Wyndham Diwali: Grand Festival, 25 October
Diwali Food Finds
When my family is in town for Diwali, I love taking them out to enjoy some of the best authentic flavours Werribee and Surrounds has to offer. Here are my favorite Indian restaurants that I would recommend for a family lunch or dinner.
Saravanaa Bhavan: Craving authentic South Indian food? Located in Watton Street in Werribee, this is my go-to place for a vegetarian South Thali.
Another place I always take my family for dinner is Mr Crumb. They have two locations, one in Hoppers Crossing opposite the station and a newly opened store in Truganina. The Indian street food and paratha thalis are highly recommended!
What’s Diwali without taking home a box of Indian sweets for friends and family? Head straight to Sweet India, with locations in Hoppers Crossing, Tarneit and Mambourin (newly opened store).
Making Memories with Family
Diwali is all about togetherness, and what better way to celebrate than by exploring local sites with loved ones. Two of my favourite spots to take visiting family are Werribee Park Mansion – a real hidden gem – and Werribee Open Range Zoo.
When you’re all dressed up and wanting to capture some picture-perfect moments with family, make your way to Werribee Park Mansion. It’s an ideal backdrop for family portraits. Surrounding the Mansion you’ll discover beautiful gardens, including the stunning Victoria State Rose Garden which will be in full bloom in November.
When it’s time for a coffee break, The Refectory Parlour in the west wing of the Mansion offers a wide selection of cakes, coffee and Devonshire tea. Thinking of a family picnic? Enjoy some Melbourne spring sunshine on the front lawn of the Mansion with a delicious picnic hamper from The Refectory Parlour. Throw a rug down and watch the kids play, while you enjoy some family banter over a delicious picnic spread.
Werribee Park Mansion is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with the last entry at 4:30pm.
Nearby the Werribee Open Range Zoo is an all-time favourite among young families. I always take my extended family when they come to visit me in Melbourne. The zoo features an immersive African safari experience and the incredible new Elephant Trail, home to nine Asian Elephants.
The Meerkat Bistro at the zoo is perfect for lunch – I like that it offers an Indian vegetarian option.
I recommend arriving early to the zoo to enjoy an entire day out with family. Werribee Open Range Zoo is open from 9am to 5pm, with the last entry at 3:30pm.
After a day of exploring, why not take a little detour to the K Road Cliffs or walk along the shoreline at Campbells Cove. The sunsets at both locations are stunning, and you never know, you might be greeted with a magical one!
From vibrant festivals to flavourful feasts and memorable family outings, Werribee and Surrounds offers everything you need for a Diwali to remember.