Goa - Festivals

Shree Ayyappa Temple Mahotsavam

Every year during winter that is from November to January, after strict abstinence of 41 days (mandala period) millions of pilgrims visit Sabarimala. During these days special poojas, aartis are done in this temple which is situated in Vasco. Utsavam festival is celebrated on January 20,21st and main attractions of this are Pallivetta, Aratti, Shobhayatra. A procession of Ayappa idol carried by decorated elephant accompanied by Halappoli (women carrying lights) Panchavadyam, Chendamelam, Shinkarimelam.

Mahashivratri
This is celebrated in the month of January /February in honour of Lord Shiva, the destroyer held at all the principal Shiva temple, such as the Rudershwar, Mangueshi and other temples. The devotees dedicate this entire day to the worship of Lord Shiva. During the night, the devotees remain awake, go to the temples and listen to the vedic recitals and the meanings.

Zambaulim Zatra, this is celebrated in the month of March at Zambaulim Temple.

Shigmotsav, a Spring festival is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of March all over Goa, for 5 days.

Ram Navami, or the birthday of Lord Rama is celebrated in the month of March at Ramnath temple.

Janamashtami, is the birthday of Lord Krishna is celebrated by Hindu devotees in the month of August. This marks the beginning of Goa's harvest festival. August- September (Bhadra-Pada)

Ganesh Chaturthi, the birthday of Lord Ganesh is celebrated all over Goa. Goans keep Ganesh idol at home and also install idols at main junctions and celebrate with great devotion and enthusiasm. On the 11 day of celebration, procession is accompanied by drums, crackers,bajans. The ten days festival concludes with the immersion of Ganesh idol in the sea.

Dusshera, is celebrated by devotees by installing Goddess Durga at many places and pay homage and offering to the Goddess. Special celebrations are held in Shantadurga, Mahalashmi Temples.

Deepavali, is a universal festival celebrated throughtout Goa with great lights in home, streets and shops.

Feast of St.Francis Xavier, is celebrated on 3rd December at Old Goa every year and the preserved body of the saint is exposed once in 10 years. This festival attracts thousand of devotees allover Goa and also from abroad.

Holy Spirit Church, Margao & Feast of Lady of Immaculate Conception at Panaji is celebratd on 8th December.

Christmas on 25th December, a universal festival is celebrated in Goa with special Midnight Mass and people exchange their love and affection during this day by way of gathering and parties.

New year, celebrated with full of excitement, fun and parties.

Moharram, celebrated by Muslims all over Goa.

Carnival, celebrated in the month of February and everywhere colorful atmosphere prevails, street dances, fancy dress, float parade, group dancing and singing are the integral part of this festival.