Major Festivals of Kerala

Kerala, often referred to as God’s Own Country, is renowned for its vibrant fairs and festivals. While the state is famous for its emerald backwaters and Ayurveda, the various celebrations also serve as significant tourist attractions. Visiting Kerala during its festivals is the best way to immerse oneself in the region’s rich cultural heritage. These fairs and festivals provide a unique opportunity to experience traditional performing arts and savor delicious local cuisine. Rooted in culture and tradition, Kerala’s festivals offer a wide range of celebrations for visitors to enjoy.

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One of the most popular festivals in Kerala is the snake boat race. Apart from that, several temple festivals are held in different parts of Kerala. Like anywhere else in India, myths and legends have a lot to do with the origin and development of the fairs and festivals in Kerala.

Traditionally, elephants play an essential role in the life and culture of Kerala. The same is best manifested during the fairs and festivals in Kerala. Ornately decorated elephants in front of the temples offer a spectacle to behold.

Here is a complete list of the famous festivals of Kerala, along with their dates and special features. If you plan to attend any of these festivals, be sure to schedule your visit around the festival dates.

Major Temple Festivals (Poorams) of Kerala

1. Thrissur Pooram

• Date: May 7, 2026 (Main festival day)
• Kodiyettam (Flag Hoisting): April 30, 2026
• Location: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur

Thrissur Pooram is Kerala’s most magnificent temple festival. This spectacular event brings together ten temples in a grand display of cultural splendor.

2. Arattupuzha Pooram

• Date: April 6, 2026
• Location: Sree Sastha Temple, Arattupuzha, Thrissur

Arattupuzha Pooram is one of the oldest temple festivals in Kerala, with origins dating back over 1,400 years. It features the largest gathering of elephants in any festival in Kerala and is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.

3. Pariyanampatta Pooram

• Date: Typically held in February/March
• Location: Pariyanampatta Temple, Thrissur

This is a well-known festival in Kerala, celebrated in the Thrissur region. It showcases the traditional elements of Kerala’s temple celebrations, featuring elephant processions, percussion performances, and religious rituals.

4. Onam

• Onam Date: August 26 – September 5, 2026
• Location: Celebrated across Kerala

An annual festival honoring King Mahabali, the legendary ruler of Kerala. Onam Sadhya is a 10-day festival that involves dancing, snake boat races, and the weaving of floral carpets (Pookalam).

5. Vishu

• Date: April 14, 2026
• Location: Celebrated throughout Kerala

It is a traditional Malayalam New Year celebration, involving auspicious Vishu Kani arrangements and Vishu Kaineettam (New Year gifts).

6. Theyyam Festival

• Season: October to May
• Location: Northern Kerala (Kannur, Kasaragod districts)

Theyyam is a ritualistic dance form characterized by elaborate costumes, makeup, and passionate performances representing various deities.

7. Thiruvathira

• Date: December-January (Thiruvathira star in Dhanu month)
• Location: Celebrated across Kerala

A festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, particularly celebrated by women with traditional dances, fasting, and prayers for marital happiness.<.p>

8. Attukal Pongala

• Date: March 13, 2026
• Location: Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram

This religious event holds the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of women, with millions of women performing Pongala (sweet porridge) as an offering to Goddess Bhagavathy.

9. Chinakkathoor Pooram

• Program List: Usually conducted in April-May
• Location: Chinakkathoor, Palakkad

The festival typically includes decorated elephants, traditional music, and community participation.

10. Nenmara Vela

• Date: Typically held in February-March
• Location: Nenmara, Palakkad

The Nenmara Vela festival is known for its display of decorated elephants and vibrant cultural performances.

11. Parippally Gajamela

• Location: Parippally, Kollam
• Date: Usually held in March

The Kollam region holds an elephant festival with magnificent elephant pageantry, traditional percussion and cultural displays.

12. Edathua Perunnal

• Date: April 27 – May 7, 2026
• Location: St. George’s Church, Edathua, Alappuzha

Edathua Perunnal is one of South India’s most renowned church festivals, attracting hundreds of thousands of pilgrims annually. The 18-day celebration honors St. George and is characterized by its intense religious fervor and strong community involvement.

Spectacular Boat Races and Water Festivals

1. Champakulam Boat Race

The Champakulam Boat Race, Kerala’s oldest snake boat race, marks the beginning of the boat racing season. This centuries-old tradition celebrates the installation of Lord Krishna’s idol at the Ambalappuzha Temple. If you want to experience something unique, make sure to attend the boat race festival in Kerala.

2. Nehru Trophy Boat Race

Kerala’s most famous and competitive boat race, named after India’s first prime minister who visited the event in 1952.

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Essential Tips for Festival Visitors

• Book accommodations well in advance during major festivals
• Consider homestays for authentic local experiences

• Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) provides special services during festivals
• Private taxis and auto-rickshaws are widely available

• Dress modestly, especially at religious sites
• Remove footwear before entering temples and churches

In addition to these major festivals, the people of Kerala celebrate many other joyous occasions. You can experience these celebrations by planning your holiday during the festival season. For more detailed information about the fairs and festivals in Kerala, please don’t hesitate to contact our tour experts.