The state of Goa is a dynamic blend of the modern and traditional. It has perfectly retained its cultural practices along with being open to the modern aspects of being a tropical holiday destination. This unique amalgamation of both tradition and modern is definitely visible when one witnesses the festivals in Goa celebrated. They are etched into the cultural and social fabric of the Goan society. Despite having a strong influence of Christianity, Goa is home to people of all faiths and backgrounds. And to promote harmony and attract tourism in Goa, the state authorities also organise many festivals which attract tourists and showcase Goa’s unique culture and heritage. In this guide, we’ll take a look at famous festivals in Goa and what you can expect if you happen to visit Goa during the festival season.
Here are the most popular festivals in Goa:
1. Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa
2. Shigmo Festival
3. Goa Carnival
4.The Feast of the Three Kings
5. São João Festival in Goa
6. Goa Food and Culture Festival
7 Goa Cashew and Coconut Festival
8. Diwali in Goa
9. Feast of St Francis Xavier’s
10. Christmas and New Year’s Eve
1. Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa
Ganesh Chaturthi, or Vinayaka Chaturthi, is a 10-day-long festival that is celebrated to pay reverence to one of the most important deities in the Hindu pantheon, Lord Ganesha. It is one of the most beautiful festivals in Goa, celebrated with great devotion by the Hindu community. People from across the country, or sometimes outside of India, travel to their ancestral homes in Goa to celebrate Ganesha Chaturthi. The festivities begin at home after the installation of the Ganesha idol, and families decorate the room. Special sweet delights such as modak, nevri, barfi, and ladoos are prepared, and the entire family eats together, sharing and eating the meal in remembrance of the divine. After certain days the idol is immersed in a waterbody, bidding farewell to the deity only in hopes to welcome him again next year.
2. Shigmo Festival
The Shigmo festival is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated in Goa. According to the Saka calendar, the festival falls in the Phalgun (which is a time period between February and March). It is a festival that holds high significance amongst the Konkani Hindus; however, just like any other festival in Goa, this festival too welcomes one and all. To celebrate the spring, people come together in bright, colourful clothes to sing and dance in praise of the deities that have offered protection to the history and culture of Goa. The spirit of harmony, togetherness, and unity is truly reflected in the festival. The parade that takes place is known as Shigmotsav, which depicts scenes from Hindu scriptures and Goan culture. In addition, many young men and women partake in traditional folk dances such as ugdi, gofd, and romtamel. When it comes to culinary delights, people prepare traditional dishes such as vindaloo, sorpotel, and fish curry, and feni is served along with them.
3. Goa Carnival
Goa Carnival is one of the most unique celebrations all across India. It is also one of the most anticipated events by both locals and tourists alike. As per historic accounts, the Goa Carnival celebrations first started off in 1961. Typically, the festivities of the Goan Carnival last for 4 days, which are overflowing with singing, dancing, and savouring delicious food. The highlight of the carnival is the colourful processions. One of them is when people gather all dressed up in red and black and perform the Red and Black Dance. The other one is the Fat Saturday procession; in this parade, one can witness fire eaters, trapeze artists, acrobats, bands, and jesters. The parade also features beautifully adorned horse carriages, large balloons, bullock carts, various local artist performances, and endless dancing, drinking, and revelry. So be ready to be a part of an extravaganza like any other. The dates of the Goa Carnival in 2024 will be from February 11 to February 14, 2024.
4. The Feast of the Three Kings
The Feast of the Three Kings (Holy Magi) or the Feast of Epiphany is one of the most important festivals in Goa, celebrated with great pomp and show every January 6th. It honours the Lady of Our Mount, which is a statue of Mother Mary holding the infant Jesus. In Goa, the Feast of the Three Kings is a reenactment of what happened after Christ’s birth. It is said that when Christ was born, there were three kings: Caspar or Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthazar. They undertook a long journey with gifts for a baby of such noble birth. To celebrate the same, young boys from ages 8 to 10 dress up as kings, each bearing a gift, and a colourful procession is carried out. Many people come to witness the act of gift giving and attend a vibrant fair where they eat, drink, socialise, buy souvenirs made by local Goans, and have fun.
5. São João Festival in Goa
São João is a popular religious festival celebrated in North Goa on 24th June. This festival is celebrated in honour of St. John the Baptist. According to the Christian scriptures, St. John leapt with joy into his mother’s womb. Later, after his birth, he was baptised by Jesus in the Jordan River. Jumping in a waterbody is a reenactment of the same. Today, many young men wearing flower crowns or Kopel take a plunge in a well or a pond to catch gifts thrown by villagers. The festival also coincides with the monsoon season, when everything around Goa is lush green and fresh. The music, food, and dancing also make the São João Festival memorable.
6. Goa Food and Culture Festival
The Goa Food and Culture Festival is organised by the Department of Tourism, Goa, to present the state’s rich food history and culinary heritage. It is also one of the most popular festivals in Goa. The aim of this festival is to promote and solidify Goa’s position as a leading tourist destination in India. For tourists visiting Goa in February, it’s a great opportunity to witness this festival. The festivities feature about 52 food stalls serving both vegetarian and meat-based delicacies. In addition, one can also relish the live music and entertainment scene. This event promotes real Goan food while also highlighting the state’s colourful folklore and traditions. The highlight of the festival are the mesmerising fireworks that light up the Goan sky.
7. Goa Cashew & Coconut Festival
Cashews and coconuts are a significant aspect of Goan life and are seen as cash crops that supplement the Goan economy. Cashews are also used in making a local spirit called feni, which is consumed as a part of Goa’s culinary tradition. So, in order to celebrate this aspect of Goa, a cashew and coconut festival takes place annually, which is one of the highlights in Goa’s event calendar. Some of the most interesting activities at the festivals are coconut braking, stomping on cashews, and sampling the delightful local drink feni. The festival takes place in the month of May, so if you’re visiting Goa at that time, make sure to pay a visit to this festival as well.
8. Diwali in Goa
Diwali is the most popular and well-known festival in India. It’s a celebration of good over evil and light over darkness. Although different regions in India have different stories explaining the meaning behind Diwali, here in Goa, the locals celebrate Lord Krishna, who defeated the demon Narkasur. During Diwali, it’s common to see people burning large effigies of the demon Narkasur and celebrating. Sweets and gifts are exchanged, and people draw rangoli with colourful hues. It is believed that it keeps evil energies at bay and brings good luck.
9. Feast of St. Francis Xavier’s
A large number of Christians gather in Goa to pay their reverence to St. Francis, who was a missionary. He was one of the first Jesuit leaders who propagated Christianity in Goa. Referred to as “Goencho Saib” or (Lord of Goa), After his death, the body was brought back to Goa and put in a silver casket, which is open for public viewing every 10 years. The next viewing is due in the year 2024, in December. After nine days of prayer, people in Goa attend the feast and offer their prayers to the Lord.
10. Christmas & New Year’s Eve
Christmas in Goa is the most anticipated and vibrant festival amongst both locals and tourists. It is no wonder that Goa receives the maximum number of tourists during this time. From beaches to clubs and from hotels to resorts, Goa buzzes with Christmas celebrations. On the beaches of Goa, you can see people partying, drinking, and participating in bonfires with barbecues. To learn more about Christmas and New Year’s festivities in Goa, please read: Christmas Celebration and New Year’s Eve in Goa
Along with cultural and religious festivals, there are many other small festivals that take place in Goa from time to time, promoting its tourism or heritage. These festivals become a window into the vibrant cultural tapestry that Goa has to offer. For those who find themselves captivated by Goa’s charm and dream of experiencing its festivals not just as visitors but as part of the community, owning a second home here could be the answer. You too can own a home in Goa, where the festivals and fun beaches are just a step away. One wouldn’t even have to wait or get into the hassle of hotel bookings during the peak season.
If you’re looking for a reliable builder in Goa, Veera Developers Group is known as one of the leading and trustworthy real estate companies that offers luxury villas and apartments in Goa. Our latest project, Veera Eminence, is a 4-bedroom villa that is setting new standards of luxury living and is a gateway for many Goan festivities and delights.