Onam Festival

Name: Onam Festival
Start: 2025-08-31
End: 2025-09-10
Location: Kerala

A harvest festival of color and tradition, where the land and spirit of Kerala come into full bloom.

2026/08/13 - 2026/07/23

Every year from August to September, the southern Indian state of Kerala bursts into ten days of joy with the Onam Festival. Celebrating the return of the legendary King Mahabali and a bountiful harvest, this festival sees homes, temples, and street corners adorned with vibrant flower carpets, the air alive with drums and laughter, and families and friends gathering in celebration. For travelers and locals alike, Onam is a special season to experience Kerala’s hospitality, artistry, and sense of unity in its purest form.

Snake boat races on shimmering lakes, the scent of jasmine and coconut, and colorful floral carpets decorating every doorstep-Onam is a festival that delights all five senses. Every household opens its doors, villages host traditional games and dances, and all of Kerala feels wrapped in the warmth of one big family.

Main Attractions

Pookalam: Flower Carpet Art

During Onam, families gather each morning to create vibrant pookalam (floral carpets) at their doorsteps using petals of marigold, jasmine, and chrysanthemum. The designs grow larger and more beautiful each day, and neighbors often compete for the most stunning patterns. The entire city is filled with the fragrance of fresh flowers.

Vallam Kali: Snake Boat Races

On Kerala’s lakes and rivers, 30-meter-long snake boats (chundan vallam) compete with up to 100 rowers. The rhythm of drums and cheers of spectators fill the air, especially at the famous Nehru Trophy Race in Alappuzha. Village-level races are equally spirited and full of excitement.

Onasadya: Traditional Vegetarian Feast

The highlight of Onam is the Onasadya, a vegetarian feast of up to 26 dishes served on a banana leaf. Sambar, aviyal, banana chips, and sweet payasam, all rich with coconut and spices, fill the table. Eating together as a family is a symbol of equality and connection.

Traditional Games and Dances

Villages host tug-of-war, archery, and the martial art Onathallu. Women perform the circular Thiruvathirakali dance, while men take part in Pulikali (tiger dance) and Kathakali mask drama. The beat of drums and laughter echoes everywhere.

Costumes and Decorations

Onam is a festival of elegance. Women wear cream-colored kasavu sarees with golden borders and jasmine flowers in their hair; men dress in white mundu (traditional dhoti). Homes and temples are decorated with pookalam, banana leaves, lamps, and garlands, creating a festive and colorful atmosphere throughout the city.

Cultural and Historical Background

The origins of Onam go back over a thousand years to Kerala’s agrarian society and the myth of King Mahabali, a legendary ruler who brought equality and prosperity. According to Hindu mythology, Mahabali was sent to the underworld by Lord Vishnu but was allowed to return to visit his people once a year. This story is the heart of Onam’s spirit, blending mythology with Kerala’s harvest traditions.

Today, Onam is a symbol of Kerala’s values: family, tradition, tolerance, and gratitude. Celebrated across all communities, regardless of religion or class, Onam is truly “everyone’s festival,” embodying unity and joy throughout the region.

Participant Voices

I was invited into a local family’s home to share the Onasadya, was dressed in a kasavu saree, and even joined the Pulikali tiger dance! The colors, flavors, and warmth are unforgettable.

Fun Facts

The Onasadya can include up to 26 vegetarian dishes, all served on a banana leaf.

Festival Dates

Onam is celebrated every August–September throughout Kerala. Especially during the five main days from Saptami to Dashami, the entire region overflows with art, music, rituals, and the energy of the people-a must-experience festival at least once in a lifetime.

The event schedule is subject to change. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.