Top 7 Festivals in December in India That You Must Experience!

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Festivals in December in India - Sunburn Festival Goa

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

As the year draws to a close, December emerges as a month filled with magic, merriment, and the promise of new beginnings. It’s a time when cultures around the world come alive with vibrant festivals in Dec, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. This December, immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of the season by exploring the top 7 festivals in December that promise an elegant and unforgettable farewell to 2024.

Top 7 Festivals In December You Must Experience

The end of the year is approaching, and there’s no better way than to immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities that December brings. From cultural celebrations to music extravaganzas, the month is teeming with events that promise an unforgettable farewell to the year.

Here is a list of the top 7 festivals in December that you must witness.

1. Galdan Namchot: Embracing Light and Positivity in Ladakh

When it comes to the best festivals in December, Galdan Namchot tops the list. This festival illuminates the cold December nights with warmth and positivity. Celebrated in Ladakh, Galdan Namchot marks the birthday of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug School of Tibetan Buddhism. The festival is a visual spectacle, with locals adorning their homes with butter lamps and colourful decorations. If you’re in Ladakh during December, make sure to join in the festivities as the entire region comes alive with cultural performances and traditional music. Immerse yourself in the mesmerising glow of countless lamps and witness the excitement.

When: 7^th December 2024
Where: Galdan Namchot is celebrated in Leh and other Ladakhi villages and towns.
Highlights: Traditional dances, lighting butter lamps and sculptures, and offering prayers for prosperity and peace.

2. Hornbill Festival: A Cultural Extravaganza in Nagaland

If you’re seeking a cultural immersion head to Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival. Celebrated from December 1st to 10th, this vibrant festival showcases the rich heritage and traditions of Nagaland. Named after the Great Indian Hornbill, the festival is a riot of colours, dances, and indigenous music. It is one of the top festivals in December to witness. On your trip, you can engage with the local tribes, savour traditional Naga cuisine, and see the unity of the diverse communities. It’s a must-visit in December, so don’t miss out!

When: 1^st to 10^th December 2024
Where: It’s celebrated at the Kisama Heritage Village.
Highlights: Traditional dances, crafts, music and enjoying the various cuisines of the Naga tribes.

3. Konark Dance Festival: Where Dance Meets Heritage

For performing arts lovers, the Konark Dance Festival in Odisha is a must-attend event. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Sun Temple, it’s one of the most popular festivals in December. The festival brings together renowned classical dancers from across the country. As the sun sets, the stage comes alive with the graceful movements of Odissi, Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and other classical dance forms. For the best experience, visit Odisha and immerse yourself in the beauty of Indian classical dance while surrounded by the architectural beauty of the Sun Temple.

When: 1^st to 5^th December 2024
Where: Celebrated at the popular Sun Temple in Odisha.
Highlights: Enjoy the various classical dance forms and marvel at the beauty of the Sun Temple.

4. Christmas: A Global Celebration of Joy

Christmas is one of the most popular festivals in December that brings joy to millions around the world. Whether you’re exchanging gifts, decorating the Christmas tree, or indulging in a festive feast, the spirit of Christmas is contagious. For the best Christmas experience, you can attend midnight Mass, join a carol singing session, or simply stroll through beautifully illuminated streets. Christmas is a time to cherish moments with loved ones and reflect on the year gone by, making it a perfect occasion to bid farewell to 2024. If you’re looking to experience some of the best festivals this December, then Christmas tops the list.

When: 25^th December 2024
Where: Celebrated throughout the world by Christians.
Highlights: Christmas ball, family dinners, Christmas parties, carol singing, church service, decorations, shopping, indulging in good food, drinks and sweets and exchanging gifts.

5. Cochin Carnival: Welcoming the New Year with Gusto

As December comes to a close, the city of Kochi in Kerala gears up for the Cochin Carnival. This is another popular festival you must witness. It’s a week-long extravaganza leading up to New Year’s Eve. Street parades, colourful processions, and a grand fireworks display transform the city into a lively carnival ground. From traditional games to beach parties, the Cochin Carnival is a fusion of tradition and modernity. It’s a fascinating festival that offers a unique and vibrant way to welcome the New Year. If you’re looking to bring in New Year’s in the best way possible, then head to Cochin and enjoy the carnival with family and friends.

When: 12^th December to 1^st January 2024
Where: Celebrated in Cochin.
Highlights: Cultural events, dance, music, processions, art exhibitions and traditional competitions.

6. Rajasthan Winter Festival: A Royal Affair in the Desert

Escape the winter chill and head to Jaisalmer for the Rajasthan Winter Festival. It’s one of the best December festivals that attracts huge crowds. It’s a celebration of the state’s rich cultural heritage. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Golden Fort, the festival features folk performances, camel races, and competitions showcasing the traditional skills of the desert dwellers. Make sure to visit Rajasthan to get lost in the mesmerising tunes of Rajasthani folk music and witness the grandeur of a royal procession. The Rajasthan Winter Festival is a majestic farewell to the year, so make sure you experience it in the best way possible.

When: 29th December to 31^st December 2024
Where: Celebrated in Jaisalmer.
Highlights: Folk performances, camel races, cultural events and traditional games.

7. Sunburn Goa: A Musical Extravaganza on the Beach

For those who prefer to dance their way into the New Year, Sunburn Goa is the ultimate experience. Held on the sandy shores of Goa, this electronic dance music festival attracts music enthusiasts from around the globe. As the sun sets over the Arabian Sea, world-class DJs take centre stage, creating an electrifying atmosphere that’s sure to keep you hooked. When it comes to the best festivals in December, Sunburn Goa never fails to impress. So, let the music guide you and welcome the New Year with the perfect blend of beats and beach vibes.

When: 28th December to 31^st December 2024
Where: Goa, India
Highlights: Electronic Music, stunning beach views, laser shows, fireworks, high-energy performances.

Other Top Festivals in December

Apart from the above 7 festivals in December, here are some other popular festivals that you must experience as well.

8. Pachmarhi Utsav: A Cultural Gem in Madhya Pradesh

Pack your bags for Pachmarhi, where the Pachmarhi Utsav transforms this serene town into a lively celebration of traditions and festivities. Among the most popular festivals in December, the streets come alive with the beats of traditional music and vibrant dances. Pachmarhi Utsav is a vibrant festival that invites you to be part of the region’s rich heritage and culture. So, this December, visit Madhya Pradesh and immerse yourself in the art, music, and traditions of the land.

When: 25th December to 31^st December 2024
Where: Madhya Pradesh.
Highlights: local art, culture and traditions. Adventure activities, exhibitions, dance and music.

9. Kurukshetra Festival: Where History Comes Alive

Journey to Kurukshetra this December for the best experience. The Kurukshetra Festival bridges the gap between the past and present. The historic grounds of the Mahabharata come alive with vibrant performances and reenactments, offering you a unique opportunity to experience the echoes of ancient tales. It’s not merely a festival; it’s a passage through time where history becomes an enchanting spectacle. It’s one of the best festivals in December that attracts huge crowds from all across the country.

When: 22nd December 2024
Where:
Highlights: Theatre performances, vibrant performances and reenactments of Mahabharata.

10. Mamallapuram Dance Festival: A Symphony of Classical Arts

In the coastal town of Mamallapuram, classical dance is the main attraction at the Mamallapuram Dance Festival. Immerse yourself in the graceful dance forms amidst the exquisite stone carvings. The festival weaves a visual delight, making it one of the top festivals in December. Mamallapuram is not just an event; it’s an exploration of intricate stories told through ancient arts and stones. If you’re looking for some great festivals this December, then Mamallapuram Dance Festival is a must-visit.

When: 25th December to 15^th January 2024
Where: Mamallapuram
Highlights: Mesmerising classical dance performances like Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, etc.

11. Chhau Jhumur Utsav: Rhythmic Folk Performances

The Chhau Jhumur Utsav is a celebration of vibrant folk traditions and art forms. The festival isn’t a mere performance; it’s an energetic embrace of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Here, you can witness the dancers adorned in beautiful costumes showcasing their talents. Feel the infectious rhythm of the Chhau dance and the lively beats of Jhumur music and immerse yourself in the cultural beauty of the land.

When: 20th December to 22nd December 2024
Where: Purulia, West Bengal.
Highlights: Enchanting Chhau dance performances, folk storytelling, martial arts, and dance performances.

12. Rann Utsav: Lights and Colours in the White Desert

Rann Utsav is another popular festival that attracts huge crowds during the month of December. The White Desert comes alive with dance, traditional crafts, folk music and performances. Here, you can indulge in the delicious flavours of the land, admire local craftsmanship or camp under the beautiful starry sky for the best experience. The festival begins in October and continues until February. However, if you’re looking to bring in the New Year with new experiences, then Rann Utsav is the perfect festival for you.

When: 26th October 2023 to 20^th February 2024
Where: Rann of Kutch, Gujarat.
Highlights: Cultural performances, folk dances and performances. Traditional arts, handicrafts, delicious cuisine and camping.

13. Kumbhalgarh Festival: Royalty in the Aravalli Hills

Escape to the Aravalli Hills for the Kumbhalgarh Festival, one of the most popular festivals in December. Set amidst the majestic backdrop of Kumbhalgarh Fort, this cultural spectacle comes alive in the most enchanting way. The festival showcases the royal heritage of the land with folk dances, local artists and traditional music. The Kumbhalgarh festival is a one-of-a-kind experience, leaving visitors enchanted and mesmerised.

When: 1st to 3^rd December 2024
Where: Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan.
Highlights: Cultural performances, folk dances, music and performances. Light and sound shows, competitions, and activities to keep visitors engaged.

14. Himachal Hills Festival: Snow-Kissed Celebrations in the North

If you’re looking to escape into the mountains this December, then the Himachal Hills Festival is the best choice. The snow-kissed peaks of Himachal Pradesh set the stage for the Himachal Hills Festival. It’s a cosy and heartwarming way to bid adieu to 2024. Here, you can enjoy the breathtaking views, savour the local cuisine, enjoy traditional dances and participate in various adventure activities.

When: 30th to 31^st December 2024
Where: Different parts of Himachal Pradesh.
Highlights: Trekking, paragliding, skiing, cultural performances, folk dances, music, Himachali delicacies, and craft exhibitions.

As the curtains fall on 2024, these popular December festivals offer a diverse and enchanting way to bid farewell to the year, embracing the festive spirit of December festivals in Dec with elegance and style. To plan your December vacation, consider booking with SOTC for the best deals and discounts to witness these amazing December festivals with family and friends. Book now!