List of Indian Festivals & Holidays in 2024

The land of diverse cultures and rich traditions, India, pulsates with the rhythm of its numerous festivals and holidays throughout the year. From the joyous hues of Holi to the pious chants of Diwali, each celebration unfolds a unique story, steeped in mythology, history, and vibrant customs. As we embark on the journey of 2024, let’s delve into the captivating calendar of Indian festivals, marking significant dates and offering a glimpse into their essence.

Indian Festivals January 2024:

Indian Festivals February 2024:

Indian Festivals March 2024:

Indian Festivals April 2024:

Indian Festivals May 2024:

Indian Festivals June 2024:

Indian Festivals July 2024:

Indian Festivals August 2024:

Indian Festivals September 2024:

Indian Festivals October 2024:

Indian Festivals November 2024:

Indian Festivals December 2024:

Major Festivals:

• Makar Sankranti (January 15): 
  Marking the sun’s entry into Capricorn, Makar Sankranti ushers in the harvest season. Kite flying, vibrant decorations, and delectable sweets like til laddoo and gajak fill the air with merriment.

Makar Sankranti festival in India

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• Pongal (January 14-17): 
  Celebrated predominantly in Tamil Nadu, Pongal honors the Sun God Surya and expresses gratitude for bountiful harvests. Pongal dishes like sweet pongal (rice cooked in milk and jaggery) and savory ven pongal (rice cooked with ghee and spices) tantalize the taste buds.

Pongal festival in India

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• Holi (March 25): 
  The festival of colors, Holi, is a riot of vibrant hues, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. People drench each other in colored powder and water, creating an atmosphere of playful revelry.

Holi festival in India

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• Navratri (September 27 – October 5): 
  Spanning nine nights, Navratri celebrates the nine forms of Goddess Durga. In Gujarat, energetic Garba and Dandiya dances captivate audiences, while in the east, elaborate Durga Puja pandals come alive with intricate decorations.

Navratri festival in India

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• Dussehra (October 12): 
  Culminating the nine-day Navratri celebrations, Dussehra commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. Effigies of Ravana are set ablaze, symbolizing the burning of evil.

Dussehra festival in India

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• Diwali (November 1): 
  Deepavali, the festival of lights, illuminates homes and hearts across India. It signifies the triumph of good over evil, the return of Lord Rama from exile, and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of prosperity. Rows of diyas (earthen lamps) cast a warm glow, fireworks paint the sky with dazzling colors, and families gather for joyous feasts and merriment.

Diwali festival in India

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Beyond the Major:

India’s festive calendar extends far beyond these prominent celebrations. Each region boasts unique festivals reflecting its local customs and traditions.

• Baisakhi (April 14): Celebrated in Punjab, Baisakhi marks the Sikh New Year and the harvest festival. Vibrant Bhangra dances, community gatherings, and delicious treats like kheer and chole bhature characterize this joyous occasion.

Baisakhi festival in India

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• Onam (August 31 – September 8): 
  Onam, celebrated in Kerala, marks the mythical King Mahabali’s return to Kerala. Pookalam (elaborate flower carpets), intricately adorned elephants, and traditional boat races add to the festive fervor.

Onam festival in India

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• Ganesh Chaturthi (September 9): This ten-day festival honors Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and auspicious beginnings. Grand idols of Ganesha are installed in homes and pandals, followed by immersion in water bodies on the final day.

Ganesh Chaturthi festival in India

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• Christmas (December 25): 
  Celebrated by the Christian community across India, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Churches come alive with carols, nativity scenes are displayed, and families gather for heartwarming feasts and gift-giving.

Christmas festival in India

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Planning Your India Trip:

If you’re considering an immersive experience in India’s vibrant culture, plan your trip around these captivating festivals. Witness the kaleidoscope of colors, delve into the rich traditions, and savor the delectable festive treats. Remember, each festival offers a unique window into the diverse soul of India, waiting to be explored.

Additional Tips:

• Research specific dates: As festival dates vary according to the lunar calendar, double-check the exact dates before planning your trip.
• Book accommodations in advance: Popular festivals can lead to a surge in tourism, so book your hotels and transportation well in advance.