Kerala Festivals 2026

In 2026, the picturesque state of Kerala will celebrate its festivals intertwined with religious diversity and cultural richness. The year kicks off with the grand celebration of Vishu, the Malayalam New Year, marked by the Vishukani ritual where auspicious items are arranged to symbolize prosperity. Elaborate feasts, traditional art forms, and vibrant processions characterize this joyous occasion.

Kerala's renowned temple festivals add a mystical allure to the cultural landscape. The Thrissur Pooram, held at the Vadakkunnathan Temple, captivates with its spectacular display of caparisoned elephants, rhythmic percussion, and dazzling fireworks. Devotees and tourists alike gather to witness this grand spectacle, a testament to the state's religious fervor.

Onam, the harvest festival, transcends religious boundaries, uniting Keralites in a spirit of camaraderie. The ten-day festivities feature the iconic snake boat races, intricate floral carpets known as Pookalam, traditional dances like Kathakali, and sumptuous Onam Sadhya feasts.

Kerala also celebrates Diwali as a grand affair with crackers bursting and homes adorned with lit lamps, giving the landscape a heavenly grace.

As 2026 unfolds, Kerala's festivals continue to be a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, weaving together the cultural fabric that defines the spirit of "God's Own Country." The festivities not only uphold religious significance but also serve as a testament to Kerala's inclusive ethos, celebrating unity amidst diversity.