Brighton Homes Arena will come alive with colour, culture and footy when the Brisbane Lions host the 2026 Diwali Festival alongside their Round 12 AFLW clash with Carlton on Saturday.
Returning for a second year, the festival is expected to attract more than 5000 people, and be the biggest crowd for the season at Springfield.
Diwali is a major five-day South Asian festival celebrating the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and hope over despair.
Widely known as the Festival of Lights, it is celebrated by millions of people across communities and faiths.
The event will feature live cultural performances, music, food, fireworks and, of course, footy.
Head of Women’s Football Danielle Smith said the club was thrilled to welcome the festival back.
“Last year was a huge success, and we’re excited to host Diwali again at Brighton Homes Arena,” Smith said.
“It will be a fantastic celebration of culture and community, and we encourage everyone to join us for a great day of entertainment and AFLW action.”
Federation of Indian Communities Queensland (FICQ) representative Dr Preethi Suraj said she looked forward to another Diwali celebration at Brighton Homes rena.
“The AFL Diwali celebration in Springfield is a wonderful initiative that brings together the excitement of Australian Rules Football (AFL) and the vibrant traditions of Diwali,” Dr Suraj said.
The event is supported by Multicultural Australia and Springfield City Group.
Tickets are available through the Brisbane Lions website.
The festival will run from 3pm, with live stage performances.
A drone and fireworks show will follow the game at 6.45pm.
Buses will replace trains between Roma Street and Rosewood and Springfield Central during the track closure with additional buses being available at the end of the event to accommodate supporters.
Supporters travelling to the game should allow additional time to complete their journey.
