Goa Travel Guide - Festivals & Events

 
 
 
February/March Festivals

Mardi Gras Carnival: is one of the most famous festivals in Goa and has been celebrated since the 18th century. It usually falls just before the Lent period in February or March. There are processions with bands, floats, dances and balls in the evenings throughout the city.
Shantadurga Prasann: is a colourful ‘umbrella festival’ that is celebrated in Cuncolim, south of Margao. At night a procession of chariots carry a silver statue of Shantadurga over the hills to the original temple site.
May Festivals

Igitun Chalne: is a religious festival where devotees walk over red hot coals, to symbolize their faith, in Sirigao Bichloim.
Pop, Beat and Jazz Music Festival: is an entertaining event with local bands performing at the Kala Academy.
August Festivals

Bonderam: is celebrated by both the Christians and the Hindus although it is known to be a Hindu festival. There are many colourful processions, floats, brass bands and mock battles depicting the land wars that took place in Goa many years ago.
September Festivals

Dussehra: usually occurs in September. The festival lasts for about nine days and during this time children act of scenes from the life of Rama.
Food & Cultural Festival: is held for five days annually at the Miramar beach. It’s a great time to be in Goa to experience its unique culture and taste the cuisine. Several cultural performances, traditional games and many other activities are organised culminating in a firework display.
December Festivals

Feast of the Three Kings: is celebrated at Cansaulim and Chandor where the three kings, dressed in splendour, make their way on horses up the steep Cansaulim. It is one of major celebrations held at Reis Magos.