The famous festivals of Kerala are like jewels in its crown that stand out for their beauty and uniqueness. Celebrated all year round, the people of Kerala come together on every occasion to enjoy the spirit of their state with fun, frolic and entertainment gaining paramount importance. This festivity keeps the spirits and mood of the people high and vibrant with each season boosting of a different festival. In addition to Holi, Diwali, Christmas, there are a huge number of festivals celebrated in the Kerala.

The most famous and awaited event of Kerala is the Onam festival. Falling in the month of September, the harvest season of Kerala, this festival is celebrated as the national festival of Kerala and is a perfect time for family get-together and fun. Onam is celebrated as the homecoming of Mahabali, the virtuous king of Kerala who was pushed down by Lord Vishnu in the form of Vamana. During this 10-day festival, houses are decorated with flowers and women huddle and dance together, celebrating happiness.

The Elephant march in the month of January is called the Thrissur Pooram and is a spectacular sight to watch. Aranmula Uthrittathi is another famous snake boat carnival on the Pampa River that is celebrated to commemorate the crossing of the river by Lord Krishna during this time of the year. An idol of the lord is supposed to be present in every boat, which are all expected to arrive at their destination on the same time. Ernakulam, Kottayam, Makaravillakku, and Thiruvathira are other famous Festivals of the Fascinating Kerala, South India.

In Kerala, elaborate festivals give life to fables and often commemorate religious figures or events. Several cultural festivals are staged in the tourist season, December to February, enabling travelers to experience a wide range of Kerala’s performing arts. Invariably these festivals involve vibrant music and dance. It’s often the rhythms and sounds—elaborate elephant processions and booming fireworks—that lead you to the celebrations.