Festivals in India 2026: Complete Guide & Key Experiences

Have you ever noticed how festivals feel different when you’re away from home?

How can a single familiar song or the aroma of traditional food suddenly make you feel connected to people you’ve never met before? Because home is not just a place, it’s the people, their warmth, and the emotions they bring.

And in India, family isn’t limited to blood relations.

It’s anyone who shares joy, colours, culture, and celebration with you. Festivals here are not merely moments of celebration; They are bridges that strengthen relationships and unite hearts. They carry the identity of India’s culture, heritage, and timeless traditions.

If you truly want to understand India beyond its tangible beauty, beyond monuments, mountains, and landscapes, then immerse yourself in its festivals.

Here’s your calendar of 25 upcoming festivals and cultural experiences in India for 2026. Plus, the most unique experiences to discover across the country. 

25 Upcoming festivals and Cultural experiences in India 2026

Makar Sankranti / Pongal

Makar Sankranti marks the sun’s northward journey, signaling the end of winter and the arrival of spring, celebrated with gratitude for the harvest. Communities engage in kite flying, offering sesame and jaggery sweets, and performing rituals along sacred rivers. In Tamil Nadu, Pongal involves boiling freshly harvested rice in milk as a thanksgiving ritual and decorating homes with colorful kolams.

• Date: 14 January 2026
• Region: North India (Makar Sankranti), Tamil Nadu / South India (Pongal)

Unique experiences: 

• Ahmedabad, Gujarat, for its massive kite festival. 
• Varanasi, UP, for spiritual Ganga dips and grand aartis. 
• Jaipur, Rajasthan, for royal kite-flying on rooftops.
• Haridwar, Uttarakhand, for sacred river baths. 
• Tamil Nadu (especially Tirunelveli) for the vibrant Pongal harvest. celebrations with bull-taming and feasts.
• Assam (Guwahati) for Magh Bihu feasts.

Lohri

Lohri celebrates the end of winter and the Rabi crop harvest, bringing communities together around warmth, joy, and gratitude. Bonfires are lit, and people throw sesame seeds, popcorn, and sweets into the flames while singing traditional songs and dancing to dhol beats. Rituals include offering prayers for prosperity and sharing festive foods such as gajak, rewri, and til rice.

• Date: 13 January 2026
• Region: Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan

Unique experiences: 

• Amritsar, Jalandhar, Anandpur Sahib: Massive bonfires, dhol beats, and traditional sweets.
• Delhi/NCR: Vibrant urban mix with themed parties and cultural events.
• Manali: Snowy backdrop offering a unique, scenic celebration.

Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri is a sacred night honoring Lord Shiva, symbolizing the cosmic union of energies and spiritual introspection. Devotees observe fasting, night-long vigils, and meditation while performing Rudrabhishek (pouring holy water on Shiva Lingams). Temples come alive with Bhasma Aarti, chanting of mantras, and processions, creating a profound atmosphere of devotion and reflection.

• Date: 15 February 2026
• Region: Across North India (and other parts of India)

Unique experiences: 

• Varanasi (Kashi Vishwanath Temple) & Ujjain (Mahakaleshwar Temple): Grand rituals, Bhasma Aarti, spiritual immersion.
• Kedarnath, Somnath, Haridwar, Pashupatinath (Nepal): Pilgrimage sites with sacred ceremonies.
• Isha Yoga Center (Coimbatore): Night-long spiritual vigils and unique celebrations.
  

Holi

Holi celebrates the arrival of spring, the victory of good over evil, and the joy of renewal. People smear colors, throw water balloons, and dance to folk music, embracing everyone in a spirit of unity. Rituals include Holika Dahan (bonfire on the eve of Holi) to symbolize the triumph of virtue and offerings of sweets and traditional drinks like thandai.

• Date: 4 March 2026
• Region: All across India, especially vibrant in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, West Bengal, Punjab, etc.

Unique experiences: 

• Mathura & Vrindavan: Lathmar Holi in Barsana, Phoolon Wali Holi.
• Sangla, Himachal Pradesh: Sangla Holi blends Kinnauri traditions, masked processions, folk music, and temple rituals amid snowy peaks, celebrated as part of the Faguli festivities, making it the best place to visit during Holi celebrations.
• Shantiniketan, West Bengal: Cultural Basanta Utsav with music, dance, and festivities.
• Jaipur: Royal processions and palace celebrations.
• Anandpur Sahib, Punjab: Warrior-style Hola Mohalla.
• Delhi & Mumbai: Energetic city parties.
• Pushkar & Hampi: Desert revelry and South Indian traditions.

Eid‑al‑Fitr

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, self-reflection, and prayer. The day begins with the special Eid prayer in congregation, followed by visiting family, feasting on sweet dishes like seviyan, and giving zakat (charity) to the needy. Streets and homes are decorated, creating an atmosphere of gratitude, joy, and communal harmony.

• Date: 20 March 2026 (subject to moon-sighting)
• Region: Nationwide, celebrated by Muslim communities across India.

Unique experiences: 

• Delhi (Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Nizamuddin Dargah): Grand prayers, street food, and festive shopping.
• Lucknow & Hyderabad (Charminar): Cultural immersion and Nawabi-style feasts.
• Kolkata: Community celebrations and local traditions.

Nowruz

Nowruz celebrates new beginnings, hope, and unity, honoring family, nature, and cultural heritage. Parsis and Zoroastrians perform the “Haft Seen” ritual, arrange symbolic items representing prosperity and health, and visit fire temples to offer prayers. Community feasts, traditional dances, and cultural performances highlight the festive spirit, bringing generations together in joy and reflection.

• Date: 20 March 2026
• Region: Maharashtra, Goa & Gujarat

Unique experiences: 

• Mumbai: Explore Parsi neighborhoods, Irani cafes, and fire temple architecture.
• Udvada & Navsari (Gujarat): Sacred Iranshah Atash Behram, ancestral homes, traditional Parsi eateries.
• Pune, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi: Community events, cultural programs, and authentic cuisine.

Ram Navami

Ram Navami marks the birth of Lord Rama, a symbol of virtue, duty, and moral righteousness. Devotees perform pujas, recite the Ramayana, and conduct processions carrying idols of Lord Rama through towns and villages. Rituals include fasting, visiting temples, and offering sweets, especially in pilgrimage towns like Ayodhya and Chitrakoot, where riverside ceremonies add spiritual depth.

• Date: 27 March 2026 (or 26 March as per some calendars)
• Region: Nationwide, especially significant in places like Ayodhya and other pilgrimage towns.

Unique experiences: 

• Ayodhya: Birthplace of Lord Rama, massive processions, and temple rituals.
• Bhadrachalam (Telangana) & Sitamarhi (Bihar): Grand cultural celebrations.
• Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu): Pilgrimage and Ramayana-related rituals.
• Chitrakoot, Nashik, Orchha: Serene riverside ceremonies and temple visits.

Baisakhi

Baisakhi is a harvest festival and Sikh New Year celebration, symbolizing prosperity, unity, and spiritual renewal. Communities participate in Nagar Kirtans (processions with devotional music), folk dances like Bhangra and Giddha, and temple prayers at Gurudwaras. Rituals also include preparing traditional foods, visiting farms, and offering gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

• Date: 14 April 2026
• Region: Punjab, Haryana, and Sikh communities across India

Unique experiences: 

• Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib, Ludhiana: Nagar Kirtans, temple festivities, folk dances.
• Chandigarh & Jalandhar: Harvest fairs and cultural events.
• Pinjore Gardens (Haryana): Classic rural celebration atmosphere.

Onam

Onam celebrates the harvest season and the mythical homecoming of King Mahabali, reflecting Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Rituals include creating floral carpets (Pookalams), participating in snake boat races, and performing traditional dances like Pulikkali. Families prepare grand Onam Sadhya feasts, while temple festivities and parades showcase unity, joy, and devotion to tradition.

• Date: 26 August 2026 (Thiruvonam)
• Region: Kerala

Unique experiences: 

• Thrissur: Pulikkali tiger dances.
• Alleppey (Alappuzha): Snake boat races and backwater Sadhya cruises.
• Tripunithura (near Kochi): Athachamayam parade.
• Thrikkakara: Temple festivities and elaborate floral Pookalams.

Uncover Kerala’s colorful heritage, and read more on Kerala’s culture and festivals.

Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan honors the bond between brothers and sisters, symbolizing love, protection, and familial unity. Sisters tie rakhis on their brothers’ wrists, offer sweets, and pray for their well-being, while brothers vow protection and give gifts. Regional rituals, like tying rakhis to trees or soldiers, emphasize social harmony and community care across India.

• Date: 28 August 2026
• Region: Across India

Unique experiences: 

• Brukhya Rakhyabandhan (Odisha): Women tie rakhis to trees as a pledge to protect nature.
• Narali Purnima (Maharashtra & Goa): Fisherfolk offer coconuts to Varuna, praying for safe voyages.
• Lumba Rakhi (Rajasthan & Gujarat): Sisters tie a rakhi to their brother’s wife to include her in the blessing.
• Soldier Rakhis: Women send rakhis to soldiers, symbolizing protection, respect, and gratitude.

Janmashtami

Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna, a festival of divine love, joy, and devotion. Devotees fast until midnight, perform aartis, enact Rasleela dramas, and decorate temples and homes with figurines of baby Krishna. In Maharashtra, Dahi Handi rituals involve forming human pyramids to break pots of curd, symbolizing Krishna’s playful spirit.

• Date: 4 September 2026 (varies by region)
• Region: Uttar Pradesh (Mathura / Vrindavan), Gujarat (Dwarka), Maharashtra (Dahi Handi), South India, and across India in temples.

Unique experiences: 

• Mathura & Vrindavan: Midnight aartis, Rasleela performances.
• Gokul & Barsana: Traditional village celebrations.
• Dwarka & Jaipur: Royal-style festivities.
• Mumbai: Energetic Dahi Handi events.

Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates Lord Ganesha, remover of obstacles and harbinger of wisdom. Devotees bring home clay idols, perform elaborate aartis, and offer modaks and sweets. Public pandals feature grand artistic displays, and the festival concludes with Visarjan, immersing the idols in water with processions, music, and prayers for blessings.

• Date: 14–15 September 2026
• Region: Primarily Maharashtra, but also celebrated in many parts of India.

Unique experiences: 

• Mumbai: Iconic pandals like Lalbaugcha Raja, grand visarjans.
• Pune: Traditional Manache Ganpati celebrations.
• Hyderabad: Khairatabad Ganesh with South Indian flair.
• Goa, Kanipakam, Ganapatipule, Bengaluru, Chennai: Diverse regional festivities.

Navratri

Navratri honors the divine feminine, symbolizing spiritual renewal and the victory of good over evil. Devotees observe fasting, recite prayers, and perform daily rituals to worship Goddess Durga. Communities celebrate through Garba and Dandiya dances in Gujarat, elaborate Durga Puja pandals in West Bengal, and cultural shows across North India.

• Date (2026): 19–27 March (Chaitra Navratri) and 11–19 October (Sharad Navratri)
• Region: North India, Gujarat, West Bengal, Maharashtra, pan-India presence

Unique experiences: 

• Gujarat (Ahmedabad, Vadodara): Massive Garba and Dandiya events.
• Kolkata: Grand Durga Puja pandals.
• Varanasi: Spiritual Ganga Aarti and temple festivities.
• Mysuru: Royal Dasara procession and palace lights.
• Delhi & Mumbai: Cultural shows, Ramlila, and Garba events.

Dussehra (Vijayadashami)

Dussehra marks the triumph of virtue over evil, commemorating Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. Communities enact Ramlila dramas, perform effigy burning of Ravana, and organize cultural processions. In Mysore, royal parades and illuminated palaces highlight traditions, while tribal rituals in Kullu and Bastar emphasize local folklore and heritage.

• Date: 20 October 2026
• Region: Across India, with special grandeur in places like Karnataka (Mysuru Dasara), Delhi, etc.

Unique experiences: 

• Mysore: Royal parades and palace displays.
• Kolkata: Durga Puja pandals.
• Delhi: Ramlila and Ravan Dahan.
• Kullu & Bastar: Unique deity processions and tribal traditions.
• Varanasi, Kota, Ahmedabad, Madikeri: Local cultural celebrations.

Diwali (Deepavali)

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Homes and streets are illuminated with diyas, candles, and fireworks, while families exchange gifts and sweets. Rituals include Lakshmi Puja for prosperity, decorating rangolis, and community gatherings that reinforce unity and hope.

• Date: 8 November 2026
• Region: Across India, celebrated by millions with lights, fireworks, joy, and togetherness.

Unique experiences: 

• Ayodhya: Massive diya lighting.
• Varanasi: Spiritual Ganga ghat illuminations.
• Amritsar: Golden Temple celebrations.
• Jaipur & Udaipur: Palaces lit up for royal festivities.
• Kolkata: Grand Kali Puja.
• Delhi: Vibrant markets, temple displays, and festive activities.

Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak, founder of Sikhism, emphasizing reflection, service, and spiritual values. Devotees recite hymns, hold Akhand Path (continuous reading of Guru Granth Sahib), and participate in community langars. Celebrations at Golden Temple and other Gurudwaras include prayers, processions, and sharing meals with all.

• Date: 24 November 2026
• Region: Punjab and Sikh communities across India, nationwide recognition.

Unique experiences: 

• Amritsar: Golden Temple celebrations.
• Sultanpur Lodhi: Spiritual observances.
• Delhi: Bangla Sahib Gurdwara and community events.
• Patna Sahib, Hazur Sahib, Hemkund Sahib: Regional Sikh celebrations.

Christmas

Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and spreads joy, goodwill, and family togetherness. Traditions include attending midnight mass, decorating Christmas trees, exchanging gifts, and preparing festive meals. Streets, homes, and churches across India are adorned with lights, carols, and celebrations that bring communities together.

• Date: 25 December 2026
• Region: Across India

Unique experiences: 

• Goa: Beach parties, midnight mass, festive markets.
• Kolkata (Park Street): Illuminated streets, plum cakes, street festivities.
• Shillong, Manali, Shimla: Cozy hill and snowy vibes.
• Pondicherry: French-inspired calm and decorated streets.
• Kerala (Kochi, Alleppey): Church services with backwater charm.
• Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore: Festive markets, street lights, and lively church celebrations.

Cultural Highlights and Must-Do Experiences in India for 2026

Khajuraho Dance Festival

The Khajuraho Dance Festival showcases classical dance forms in the backdrop of historic temples, celebrating India’s artistic heritage. Devotees and tourists witness performances like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi under starlit skies. Rituals include evening aartis at temples and cultural programs highlighting India’s spiritual and artistic traditions.

• Date: July 15, 2026
• Venue: open-air auditoriums, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Unique experiences: 

• Diverse Dance Forms: Experience Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and more.
• Temple Venue: Performances set in historic Khajuraho temples, blending art with spirituality.
• Renowned Artists: Watch top performers like Janaki Rangarajan, Sree Lakshmy Gowardhan, Ramli Ibrahim, and Arupa Lahiri.

From ancient temples to national parks, start your Madhya Pradesh adventure today!

Jagannath Rath Yatra

Jagannath Rath Yatra reenacts Lord Jagannath’s journey from Puri to Gundicha Temple, symbolizing divine grace. Devotees pull massive chariots, participate in processions, and receive Mahaprasad (sacred offerings). Rituals include ceremonial bathing of deities, chanting hymns, and community gatherings that transcend caste, creed, and faith.

• Date: July 15, 2026
• Venue: Puri, Odisha

Unique experiences: 

• Witness the world’s oldest and largest chariot festival with massive, hand-built chariots.
• Participate in the street procession and pull the chariots for a transformative spiritual experience.
• Receive darshan and blessings regardless of background or faith.
• Taste the sacred Mahaprasad (Chappan Bhog), a special food offering of the festival.

Hemis Festival, Ladakh

Hemis Festival celebrates Guru Padmasambhava and the triumph of good over evil, blending culture and spirituality. Monks perform Cham masked dances, display giant Thangkas, and bless devotees. Rituals involve sacred music, traditional prayers, and community feasts in the scenic Hemis Monastery, providing insight into Ladakhi Buddhist traditions.

• Date: June 24–25, 2026
• Venue: Hemis Monastery, Ladakh

Unique experiences: 

• Witness vibrant Cham masked dances by monks, depicting Guru Padmasambhava’s avatars with drums and cymbals.
• See giant Thangkas (Buddhist paintings), including the massive one displayed every 12 years.
• Experience the lively gathering of devotees and tourists in a culturally rich, festive atmosphere at Hemis Monastery.
  

Hornbill Festival

Hornbill Festival highlights Nagaland’s tribal culture through music, dance, and crafts. Communities perform traditional dances, showcase indigenous music, and demonstrate handicrafts. Rituals include offering prayers to ancestral spirits, sharing local cuisine, and participating in competitions that strengthen tribal heritage and unity.

• Date: 1–10 December 2026
• Venue: Kisama Heritage Village, Nagaland

Unique experiences: 

• Tribal dances and cultural performances
• Traditional Naga music and craft exhibitions
• Indigenous food and handicrafts

Ziro Music Festival

Ziro Festival celebrates Apatani culture and indie music amidst Arunachal Pradesh’s scenic landscapes. Visitors enjoy tribal dances, local cuisine, and eco-friendly practices, while music performances create immersive experiences. Rituals include visiting villages, observing traditional farming, and participating in workshops preserving indigenous heritage and sustainable practices.

• Date: To be announced in 2026
• Venue: Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

Unique experiences: 

• Over 40 indie music acts from India and abroad
• Explore Apatani tribal villages and their culture
• Eco-friendly festival with a zero-plastic policy
• Rice-fish farming demonstration and local cuisine tasting
• Stargazing and scenic nature walks

Step into the heart of Arunachal Pradesh – book your Ziro Valley package today.

Mechuka Adventure Festival

Mechuka Adventure Festival is India’s & Asia’s only Adventure Racing World Series Qualifier, spotlighting Mechuka as a global adventure hub. It blends extreme sports like rafting, paragliding, cycling, rock climbing, and ballooning with cultural rituals, traditional blessings, performances, and local delicacies, creating a rare mix of thrill, heritage, and community celebration.

• Date: 12–22 November 2026
• Venue: Mechuka Adventure Festival

Unique experiences: 

• Adventure sports: paragliding, mountain biking, rafting, rock climbing
• Cultural performances and local food tasting
• Hot air balloon rides
• Explore Samten Yongcha Monastery and the surrounding landscapes
  

Majuli Music Festival

Majuli Music Festival preserves folk music, dance, and art while supporting local culture. Visitors attend live performances, engage in workshops with master artisans, and explore traditional Sattriya and Bihu dances. Rituals include tasting local cuisine, participating in communal dance circles, and camping under the stars, connecting deeply with Majuli’s vibrant heritage.

• Date: 21 December 2026
• Venue: Majuli Island, Assam

Unique experiences: 

• Live indie, folk, and traditional performances
• Workshops with master drummers and artisans
• Traditional handicraft exhibits and tribal dances (Sattriya, Bihu)
• Sample local cuisine and wines
• Camp under the stars and join communal dance circles
  

Taj Mahotsav, Agra

Taj Mahotsav celebrates Indian arts, crafts, music, and cuisine near the iconic Taj Mahal. Visitors shop for handicrafts, watch folk performances, and taste regional delicacies. Rituals include cultural programs, interactive artisan workshops, and evening festivities that blend heritage preservation with immersive tourism experiences.

• Date: 18–27 February 2026
• Venue: Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Unique experiences: 

• Shop for unique Indian handicrafts
• Watch folk music and dance performances
• Taste regional cuisines
• Immerse in vibrant cultural celebrations near the Taj Mahal

Some journeys leave you wiser; festival journeys leave you fuller, heart, soul, and spirit. India in 2026 isn’t just a calendar of dates; it’s a year full of stories waiting for you. let India unfold through sacred rituals, full-moon nights, folk chants, decorated streets, and shared meals. Witness cultures that have survived centuries and communities that open their homes to strangers. Pick your favourites, and immerse yourself, because festivals are not just events, they’re feelings you carry long after the journey ends.

Frequently Asked Questions