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Festivals In December In India

Upcoming 23 Festivals In December In India In 2023

India, a land of diverse cultures and religions, thrives on festivals, social gatherings, and fairs that foster a spirit of harmony. Celebrations abound from spring's inception to the presence of the full moon. Dance, colours, regions, religions, music, and languages all have their dedicated festivities, each unique in its own way. Celebrations vary across areas, from sharing delicacies and warm greetings to exuberant entertainment. There is no dearth of worldwide and local December festivals in India worth enjoying!

Every month in India holds special significance with distinct festivities. In the Indian calendar, every month hosts festivals, and December, the last month, has numerous special days for celebration in India and internationally. The winter season and the year-end add zeal and enthusiasm to the festivities. Christmas, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, holds significance worldwide. Additionally, Nagaland's Hornbill festival is a prominent celebration in Northeast India during December. Here, we present some popular Indian festivals in December guide for your reference.

If you visit in December, explore popular festivals and fairs to create cherished memories. Here are some of the most popular and upcoming festivals in December in India that you must know about!

List of Upcoming 23 Famous Festivals In December In India In 2023

India embraces diverse religions, flourishing with festivals, fairs, and gatherings that create a harmonious spirit. From spring's onset to specific full moon occurrences, celebrations are abundant. Colours, dance, music, regions, languages, and religious festivals make the country a colourful tapestry. Each festival has its unique charm, celebrated differently by locals—some simple, with greetings and shared delicacies, while others are entertaining spectacles. Here are the deets on top-rated December festivals in India!

  • Galdan Namchot | Radiant Winter Lights
  • Konark Dance Festival | Graceful Cultural Rhythms
  • Hornbill Festival | Unity in Diversity
  • International Sand Art Festival | Art on Sand
  • Cochin Carnival | Joyous Carnival Vibes
  • Christmas | Festive Merry Moments
  • Rajasthan Winter Festival | Royal Winter Celebrations
  • New Year’s Eve | Countdown to Joy
  • Pachmarhi Utsav | Nature's Revelry
  • Mahindra Kabira Festival | Melodies of Kabir
  • India Bike Week (IBW) | Biker's Paradise
  • Kurukshetra Festival | Mythical Saga Unleashed
  • Chhau Jhumur Utsav | Enchanting Folk Traditions
  • Mamallapuram Dance Festival| Dance by Seashore
  • Rann Utsav | White Desert Soiree
  • Sunburn Goa | Music on Beach
  • Kumbhalgarh Festival | Fort's Cultural Charisma
  • Bishnupur Festival | Terracotta Art Extravaganza
  • Rajasthan Winter Festival | Desert's Winter Carnival
  • Himachal Hills Festival | Mountain Delightful Celebrations
  • Jashn-E-Rekhta | Poetry in Motion
  • Perumthitta Tharavad | Heritage Home Celebrations
  • Ranthambore Music and Wildlife Festival | Wilderness Serenade

1. Galdan Namchot | Radiant Winter Lights

In the icy mountains, Galdan Namchot casts its warm glow. Colourful lamps illuminate Ladakh, celebrating the birth of Tsongkhapa, the great scholar. Monasteries echo with prayers, and the streets come alive with merry gatherings. Amidst snowflakes, laughter, and savoury delicacies, the festival fills hearts with joy and hope, lighting up the winter darkness.

  • When. 7th December 2023
  • Where. Mainly celebrated in Leh and other Ladakhi towns and villages.
  • Special Highlights. Lighting lamps and butter sculptures, performing traditional dance, and offering prayers for peace and prosperity

2. Konark Dance Festival | Graceful Cultural Rhythms

Under the starry sky, the grand Sun Temple of Konark transforms into an ethereal stage. Dancers from across India unite to showcase their artistry. Each step narrates tales of ancient folklore, history, and devotion. As the beats entwine with the sea's rhythm, the audience is enchanted by the mesmerising performances celebrating India's rich cultural heritage.

  • When. 1st to 5th December 2023
  • Where. Held at the famous Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha, India
  • Special Highlights. Renowned dancers from across India showcase various classical dance forms like Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and more, against the backdrop of the magnificent Sun Temple.

3. Hornbill Festival | Unity in Diversity

Amidst the lush forests of Nagaland, tribes gather for the grand Hornbill Festival. The air reverberates with tribal songs, dances, and vibrant performances. From Naga warrior traditions to local crafts, every aspect of Naga culture unites in a magnificent showcase. As the hornbills soar, the festival becomes a testament to India's cultural diversity and unity. It is undoubtedly one of the best cultural festivals in India in December.

  • When. 1st to 10th December
  • Where. Kisama Heritage Village, near Kohima, Nagaland
  • Special Highlights. A vibrant display of Naga culture showcasing traditional dances, music, crafts, and cuisines of various Naga tribes.

4. International Sand Art Festival | Art on Sand

On the pristine beaches of India, artists conjure magic on sandy canvases. With skilled hands, they sculpt intricate masterpieces, depicting mythical tales, social messages, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Each sculpture is a fleeting marvel as the tides claim them back to the sea. The International Sand Art Festival celebrates art's impermanence and the beauty of fleeting moments.

  • When. 1st to 5th December 2023
  • Where. Celebrated on various beaches in India, notably in Odisha's Puri and Chandrabhaga.
  • Special Highlights. Renowned sand artists from India and abroad create stunning sculptures on sandy canvases, depicting mythological stories, social themes, and landscapes.

5. Cochin Carnival | Joyous Carnival Vibes

Cochin Carnival, held in Kerala's vibrant city, infuses the streets with exuberance. Colourful processions, music, dance, and fireworks set the tone for this ten-day revelry. Locals and tourists immerse in merriment, donning colourful masks and costumes. From art exhibitions to traditional competitions, the carnival radiates sheer joy and offers a unique blend of culture and entertainment.

  • When. 12th December to 1st January 2023
  • Where. Cochin, India
  • Special Highlights. Many cultural events include processions, music, dance, traditional competitions, and art exhibitions.

6. Christmas | Festive Merry Moments

Christmas, celebrated worldwide on December 25th, fills hearts with warmth and love. The joyous occasion marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Festive decorations, carol singing, and exchanging gifts spread cheer. Families gather for feasts and midnight mass, creating lasting memories. The spirit of giving and togetherness envelopes communities, making Christmas a time of reflection and celebration.

  • When. 25th December 2023
  • Where. Observed worldwide by Christians
  • Special Highlights. Marked by festive decorations, carol singing, exchanging gifts, and special church services.

7. Rajasthan Winter Festival | Royal Winter Celebrations

The desert city of Jaisalmer comes alive during the Rajasthan Winter Festival. Amidst the golden sands, the festival showcases Rajasthan's regal heritage and vibrant culture. Camel races, folk performances, and traditional games captivate the audience. The grand finale at the Jaisalmer Fort, with illuminated decorations and fireworks, epitomises the royal extravaganza, enthralling visitors with the state's majestic charm. Check out December traditional festival tickets in India to participate in the festival.

  • When. 29th December to 31st December 2023
  • Where. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India
  • Special Highlights. This festival showcases Rajasthan's royal heritage with camel races, folk performances, traditional games, and vibrant cultural events.

8. New Year’s Eve | Countdown to Joy