culture
Epping Celebrates Vaisakhi Mela April 17 With Free Entry, Live Acts
Free entry draws crowds for Punjabi harvest celebrations with live acts and food stalls at the local venue.
How we reported this
The 2026 Vaisakhi Mela arrives in Epping on Friday, April 17, running from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Epping Community Memorial Hall on 827 High Street.
This gathering marks the Punjabi harvest season and the 1699 formation of the Khalsa, serving as a key anchor for the local diaspora to share traditions with younger generations. Held in Epping each spring, it connects families across Melbourne's northern suburbs through music and shared meals at a time when community events help maintain cultural ties.
Lineup and Village Atmosphere
Performances center on Bhangra and Giddha, with Haryanvi artists leading the bill. Maisha Sharma headlines, joined by Heer, Vikram Sarkar, Ashu Twinkle and Sujender Sajuma for a four-hour stretch of high-energy sets. Organizers aim to recreate an authentic desi village feel inside the hall, complete with multiple food stalls offering fried snacks, sweets and hot chai.
Children can access dedicated activities while parents watch the stage or mingle. The City of Whittlesea supports the event, which Distribution Pty Ltd organizes as a no-cost, all-ages affair.
Practical Details for Attendees
Doors open at 4:00 PM with no tickets or bookings required. Drivers should allow extra time for on-site parking and nearby street spots, as the free format often brings strong turnout for the music. Public transport users can reach the hall via Epping Station on the Mernda line followed by a short bus or rideshare along High Street.
Early arrival improves chances of good viewing positions and parking. The Epping event often influences planning for later cultural dates across Victoria, including gatherings at Fed Square.
Details are drawn from the event guide at altbollywood.com.