Top 20 Most Popular Festivals in India You Must Experience

India is a land rich in diversity, and festivals are a big part of what makes it special. Throughout the year, people across the country celebrate a variety of colorful festivals that showcase different cultures and religions. Each festival brings its own unique sense of joy and spirituality.

In our democratic country, festivals from various religions are celebrated together in harmony. This mix of religious celebrations highlights India’s rich cultural heritage. So, if you want to experience something truly remarkable, don’t miss these popular festivals!

To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the Top 20 Most Popular Festivals in India for 2025. Dive in to reconnect with the spirit of love and togetherness, and discover the significance of these major celebrations.

The many festivals in India bring people together and fill them with pride as they celebrate their local and national traditions. These vibrant events enhance the beauty of our country.

So, grab your calendar and mark the dates for the upcoming festivals in 2025! It’s time to celebrate with your friends and family and create wonderful memories together.

List of Top 20 Most Popular Festivals in India 2025

These festivals of India not only add zing to the single life but also manifest the vibrant and dynamic culture of the county.

1. Diwali – The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals in India. It is celebrated with great excitement and enthusiasm. This beautiful festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, and people across the country look forward to it all year round.

During Diwali, homes are beautifully decorated with diyas (oil lamps), bright lights, flowers, and Ashoka leaves. People also create stunning rangoli designs at their doorsteps to welcome guests and invite happiness and positivity on this special day.

On Diwali, everyone dresses in new, colorful clothes and participates in Lakshmi Puja, a ritual to honor the goddess of wealth. Firecrackers light up the night sky, and families exchange gifts and sweets with their loved ones, adding to the festive spirit.

• Diwali Date: October 20, 2025.

Importance: Diwali is celebrated by Hindus in honor of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile.

When: The festival falls in the month of Kartik according to the Hindu calendar, usually between mid-October and mid-November.

Main Attractions: The streets and homes are aglow with decorative diyas, candles, and colorful lights. Markets are lively, and the sky dazzles with fireworks. The highlight of the celebration is Lakshmi Puja, performed to attract wealth and prosperity.

2. Dussehra: The Witness of Victory of Good over Evil

Dussehra is a vibrant festival that symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Known as Vijayadashami, it holds a special place among India’s top festivals. This grand celebration takes place on the last day of Navaratri and honors Lord Rama’s triumph over the demon king Ravana.

Did you know that Dussehra is celebrated differently in various states across India? That’s right! Each region has its own unique way of celebrating this important festival.

This holy festival pays tribute to the ideals of Lord Rama, who is considered a form of Lord Vishnu. Dussehra inspires people to overcome their inner struggles and encourages them to follow the path of righteousness.

• Dussehra Date: Thursday, October 02, 2025.

Importance: Dussehra marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, the demon king.

When: The festival is celebrated across India on the tenth day of Navaratri, which falls in September or October.

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Main Attractions: One of the main highlights of Dussehra is the Ramlila plays, where scenes from the Ramayana are enacted for ten days during Navaratri. The festival culminates in “Ravan Dahan,” where large effigies of Ravana, along with his brothers Meghnath and Kumbhkaran, are set ablaze, symbolizing the defeat of evil.

3. Navratri: Nine Days of Devotion to Maa Ambe

Navratri is one of the most important festivals in India, celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. People across the country honour this festival in various ways, but in Gujarat, Navratri is a grand celebration lasting nine days.

During this festive time, you can experience lively Garba nights and energetic Dandiya Raas dances. In Gujarat, many vibrant Dandiya events take place, where people dress in beautiful traditional outfits and come together to dance and celebrate.

• Saturday, 14 October 2025 and ends on
• Sunday, 22 October 2025 Dates may vary.

Importance: Navratri celebrates the nine different forms of Goddess Amba, showcasing the power and grace of the divine feminine.

When: This festival is celebrated across the country, with special significance in states like Gujarat and Maharashtra. It takes place during the first nine days of the month of Ashwina, according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which falls between September and October on the Gregorian calendar.

Main Attractions: The main highlights of Navratri include the lively Dandiya dance festivities in Gujarat, where colorful traditional outfits like Chaniya Choli (also known as Ghagra Choli) are worn. The atmosphere is filled with joy, music, and devotion, making it a truly magical time of year.

4. Durga Puja: Celebrating Goodness, Prosperity, and Devotion

Durga Puja is one of the most significant Hindu festivals in India, celebrated with great enthusiasm by people from all walks of life. In Kolkata, this festival is especially vibrant, where Bengalis come together to celebrate with grandeur and joy.

Over ten days, devotees fast, worship Goddess Durga, and enjoy delicious feasts, along with cultural performances that include traditional Bengali songs, dramas, and the lively Dhunuchi dance, which is a unique dance form from Bengal.

Visitors are often amazed by the stunning Durga idols displayed in intricately designed pandals (temporary structures). People dress in traditional attire and visit these pandals to pray, socialize, and enjoy mouthwatering Bengali dishes.

• Durga Puja 2025 Dates: The festival will begin on Thursday, October 16, 2025, and will end on Monday, October 20, 2025.

Importance: Durga Puja honors Lord Rama’s worship of Maa Durga before he went to battle with Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

When: The festival is celebrated on the tenth day of Ashwin Shukla Paksha according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which usually falls in September or October on the Gregorian calendar. This is a perfect time to visit India and experience the festive spirit during Durga Puja.

Main Attractions: Highlights of Durga Puja include beautifully decorated pandals, exquisite Durga idols, the vibrant Dhunuchi dance, and the overall festive atmosphere that brings people together.

Holi: The Joyful Festival of Colours

Holi, known as the joyful festival of colors, is one of the most beloved Hindu festivals in India. Celebrated with enthusiasm and love across the country, it’s also called the “festival of love” because on this day, people set aside their differences and come together in a spirit of joy.

The Holi celebration consists of two main events: the night before and the day of the festival. The festivities begin with Holika Dahan, also known as Choti Holi, which takes place on the eve of the full moon in the month of Phalgun. This is when people gather around a bonfire, singing and dancing, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

The next day is the main event, Holi, a time for joy and laughter. People throw and apply colorful powders (known as ‘abeer’) on each other, creating a vibrant scene filled with love and friendship. If you plan to visit India, March is the perfect time to experience this colorful festival firsthand!

• Holi 2025 Dates: Friday, March 14, 2025.

Importance: Holi represents the triumph of good (Prince Prahlad) over evil (Holika) and also marks the arrival of spring.

When: Holi is celebrated on the Purnima (full moon) eve in the Phalgun month, which typically falls in March each year.

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Main Attractions: The celebrations kick off with the Holika bonfire, followed by a day filled with colorful powders, water fights, and joyous gatherings, making it one of the most vibrant and lively festivals in India.

6. Krishna Janmashtami: The Birth of the Mischievous Bal Gopal

Krishna Janmashtami is one of the most significant religious festivals in India, especially celebrated in 2025. The festivities in Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, are particularly enchanting. On this special day, Hindus fast throughout the day and come together in the evening for a joyous feast to break their fast.

People flock to Krishna temples to pray, sing hymns, and dance in anticipation of Lord Krishna’s birth, which is celebrated at midnight. It’s also common for schools in India to hold special functions where children dress up as Lord Krishna and Radha, showcasing the spirit of the festival. Many temples organize “Jhankis,” displaying various stories from Krishna’s life.

• Krishna Janmashtami 2025 Date: Friday, August 15, 2025

Importance: Janmashtami marks the birthday of Lord Krishna, a beloved deity known for his playful and loving nature.

When: The festival falls on the eighth day of Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of the moon) in the month of Bhadrapada, which usually occurs between August and September.

Main Attractions: The highlight of Janmashtami includes vibrant celebrations in schools, temples, and local communities, along with beautiful “Jhankis” showcasing Lord Krishna’s life stories.

7. Ganesh Chaturthi: Eleven Days of Honoring Lord Ganesha

Ganesh Chaturthi is a vibrant festival celebrated to honor the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu God known for removing obstacles and bringing good fortune. This festival is especially grand in places like Mumbai and Andhra Pradesh.

During the festival, large idols of Lord Ganesha are placed in public pandals (temporary structures) and homes. The celebrations last for ten days, with prayers offered both morning and evening to please Ganesha. The final day is marked by the immersion (Visarjan) of the idol in water, which brings crowds to the streets, filled with devotees dancing and singing Ganesha bhajans.

• Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 Date: Saturday, September 14, 2025. (Dates may vary.)

Importance: It commemorates the birth of Lord Ganesha.

When: The festival is celebrated on the fourth day of Shukla Chaturthi (the waxing phase of the moon), usually falling between August and September.

Main Attractions: Beautifully crafted idols of Ganesha and the vibrant Visarjan on the last day.

8. Raksha Bandhan: Celebrating the Bond of Love Between Siblings

Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a heartfelt festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters in India. On this day, sisters perform rituals for their brothers, including prayers (Aarti) and applying a tilak (a mark on the forehead) before tying a Rakhi (a sacred thread) on their wrist.

In return, brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters for life.

Importance: It signifies the love and duty between siblings.

When: Celebrated on the Purnima (full moon) of the Shravana month, usually in August.

Main Attractions: The rituals of Raksha Bandhan and colorful markets filled with Rakhis, gifts, and sweets.

9. Gurpurab: Celebrating the Birth of Guru Nanak

Gurpurab, also known as Guru Nanak Jayanti, celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. This significant festival is celebrated with devotion by Sikh and Punjabi communities across India.

On this day, special prayers (Path) are held in Gurudwaras, and community meals (langars) are served. Processions (Nagar Kirtan) with singing of hymns take place, and homes are adorned with lights and decorations.

Importance: It honors the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and other Sikh Gurus.

When: Celebrated on the Purnima (full moon) in the Kartik month, usually in November.

Main Attractions: The soulful Nagar Kirtan, prayers in Gurudwaras, and the distribution of Karah Prasad.

10. Christmas: Celebrating the Birth of Jesus Christ

Christmas is one of the most anticipated festivals in India and around the world. Celebrated on December 25, it marks the birth anniversary of Lord Jesus Christ. While it is primarily a Christian festival, it is embraced by many people of various faiths.

Children eagerly await surprises from Santa Claus. Homes and churches are beautifully decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and candles, and Christmas carols fill the air on Christmas Eve.

Importance: It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.

Where: Celebrations take place all over India, with special festivities in Kerala, Goa, and Pondicherry.

Main Attractions: Christmas carols, Santa Claus gifts, decorated trees, and prayers.

11. Eid-al-Fitr: Celebrating the End of Ramadan

Eid al-Fitr is a significant festival for Muslims in India, marking the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting. People dress in traditional attire and attend special morning prayers (Eid namaz). It’s a time for visiting loved ones and sharing sweets and gifts, with children receiving Eidi (money or gifts) from elders.

Importance: It celebrates the conclusion of Ramadan.

When: Celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, which typically falls in July.

Main Attractions: Beautifully decorated mosques, morning prayers, and delicious sweets like sewaiyan (vermicelli pudding).

12. Onam: Celebrating the Homecoming of Mahabali

Onam is a vibrant festival celebrated in Kerala and holds a special place as a national festival. The festivities last for ten days, with people from all communities joining in the celebration. Traditional attire, floral decorations (Pookkalam), and the famous Onasadya feast are key highlights.

Importance: Onam honors the legendary King Mahabali, who is believed to visit his people during this time.

When: Celebrated in the month of Chingam, according to the Malayalam calendar, typically in August or September.

Main Attractions: The Vallamkali boat races, grand meals, games (Onakalikal), the Kaikottikali dance, and colorful elephant processions.

13. Pongal: Welcoming the Harvest with Joyful Celebrations

Pongal is a popular harvest festival celebrated in South India, especially in Tamil Nadu. This four-day festival is marked by traditional attire, the preparation of the special Pongal dish, and vibrant celebrations.

During Pongal, people light bonfires, enjoy cattle races, dance, and feast on delicious food. Homes are adorned with Kolam designs, made with colored powders and flower petals.

Importance: It celebrates the harvest season and expresses gratitude for a bountiful year.

When: Celebrated from January 14 to January 17, aligning with Makar Sankranti.

Main Attractions: Unique Kolam designs and exciting cattle races.

14. Maha Shivratri: A Great Day Devoted to Lord Shiva

Maha Shivratri is a significant Hindu festival celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva. Revered as one of the most important nights dedicated to Shiva, this festival holds immense spiritual significance for devotees. On this day, people observe fasts, visit temples, perform shivling puja, and engage in prayers to Lord Shiva. The celebration of Mahashivratri in Varanasi is particularly popular, drawing countless pilgrims.

It is believed that those who pray to Lord Shiva on this auspicious night will attain redemption from their sins and gain salvation. The festival is also associated with marital bliss, making it special for both unmarried and married women.

Importance: Celebrated as a day of devotion to Lord Shiva, acknowledging his role as the protector of the universe, and marking the wedding day of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati.

When: Observed on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalgun (usually February or March).

Main Attractions: Fasting, traditional Shivalingam Puja, prayers to Lord Shiva, and delightful delicacies such as Sabudana Kheer, Ramdana, and Kattu Halwa.

15. Basant Panchami: The Beginning of Spring

Basant Panchami, dedicated to Goddess Saraswati—the deity of knowledge, music, and arts—is celebrated in January or February. This festival marks the onset of spring and is especially significant for students and scholars who worship the Goddess of Knowledge.

Celebrations vary across different states in India, including Punjab, Bihar, Haryana, West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha. On this day, people adorn the goddess with jasmine garlands and yellow attire, while yellow sweets are offered as part of the celebrations. The festival is also popularly known for kite flying, adding to the joy and vibrancy of the occasion.

Importance: To herald the arrival of spring and embrace happiness and knowledge.

When: Celebrated on the 5th day of the month of Magha according to the Hindu calendar (typically in late January or early February).

Main Attractions: Yellow-colored attire, saffron sweets (like ladoos), kite flying, and traditional offerings to Goddess Saraswati.

16. Easter: The Celebration of the Resurrection of Lord Jesus

Easter is celebrated in India with as much enthusiasm as it is worldwide. This festival commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion. Observed during the spring season, Easter traditions in India are characterized by vibrant decorations, streets adorned with bright lanterns, theatrical plays, dances, and delicious plum cakes.

Importance: A celebration of the Resurrection of Lord Jesus Christ.

When & Where: Easter falls on the full moon following March 21 every year. To experience the best Easter celebrations in India, consider visiting Goa, Kerala, and Pondicherry.

Main Attractions: Traditional folk dances and songs, modern Easter traditions, chocolates, Easter eggs, cakes, and festive street decorations.

17. Bihu: Celebration of the New Year in Assam

Bihu is the most celebrated harvest festival in Assam, marking the beginning of the harvest season and the arrival of spring. Throughout the month-long festivities, young men and women don traditional attire and perform the lively Bihu dance. Community feasts are organized with great enthusiasm during this time.

Importance: A celebration dedicated to welcoming the traditional New Year of the Assamese people.

When: Celebrated on April 15, especially in Assam, and by Assamese communities around the world.

Main Attractions: The traditional Bihu dance, along with local delicacies such as coconut ladoo, ghila pitha, til pitha, and fish pitika.

18. Baisakhi: The Rich Traditions and Cultural Prosperity

Baisakhi holds a prominent place among India’s festivals, especially celebrated with fervor by Sikhs in Punjab and around the world. This festival marks the harvesting of the Rabi crop and is one of the largest Sikh celebrations. It is historically significant as it commemorates the day in 1699 when Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Guru of Sikhs, established the Khalsa Panth.

Importance: Welcoming the harvest season and celebrating the foundation of the Khalsa Panth.

When: Baisakhi is celebrated on April 13 or 14 each year, according to the Indian solar calendar.

Main Attractions: Folk dance performances such as Giddha and Bhangra, alongside delicious Punjabi cuisines.

19. Makar Sankranti: Hindu’s New Year

Makar Sankranti is celebrated as the Hindu New Year in India, with cultural significance varying across different states. The best place to experience Makar Sankranti celebrations is in North India, where it follows the Lohri festivities. This festival marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring.

On this day, people worship deities to seek blessings for the coming year. Traditional activities include kite flying and enjoying delicious dishes like khichdi, til laddoo, moongfali, and gajjaks.

Importance: Marks the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest year.

When: Celebrated annually on January 14, the day after Lohri.

Main Attractions: Kite flying, til laddoo, khichdi, and festive gatherings.

20. Kumbh Mela: The Auspicious Hindu Festival

Kumbh Mela is one of the largest and most significant Hindu pilgrimage festivals in India. Held every three years in one of four cities—Ujjain, Varanasi, Haridwar, and Allahabad—Kumbh Mela is believed to be a great boon for those who attend. The cities hosting the festival become bustling hubs of activity as people from around the world come to bathe in the holy rivers.

Importance: Kumbh Mela offers a spiritual experience that symbolizes auspiciousness and purity. It commemorates the legendary event when Hindu deities and demons collaborated to produce the nectar of immortality, as told by ancient sages.

When: Held every 12 years at the same locations during the month of Magha in the Hindu calendar.

Main Attractions: The grand gatherings at Ujjain, Haridwar, Prayag Raj (Allahabad), and Varanasi.

The rich tapestry of festivals in India brings joy and unity to the nation. This list of the Top 20 Most Popular Festivals in India in 2025 encourages you to explore diverse regions and immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations. Plan your trip to India to experience the joy and spirit of these incredible festivals firsthand.