Traditional Kerala Festivals Celebrations Guide 2025

Often called “God’s Own Country” Kerala is a state with lush landscapes, calm backwaters and a cultural calendar filled with celebrations. The Kerala festivals are more than just some events. They are vibrant forms of expression for centuries of tradition, community spirit, and spiritual enthusiasm. In 2025, these iconic celebrations shed light on the nation again with colours, rituals and music.

Whether you are a traveler who wants to explore the essence of South Indian culture or are looking for an extensive experience through local traditions, this guide will showcase the soulful spirit behind every massive Kerala festival. 

Solis Nature celebrates the cultural throbbing of all the places we connect with. Thanks to the carefully curated properties of Kerala, which is part of this unforgettable celebration and we recommend experiencing the magic from within.

1. Onam: The Joyful Harvest Celebration

When: August-September 2025
Where: Celebrated across Kerala, with grand festivities in Thrissur, Kochi, and Trivandrum

Considered the most famous festival in Kerala, Onam is a 10-day harvest celebration honoring the mythological king Mahabali. It is a mixture of mythology, spirituality and agricultural pleasures. The streets are filled with  carpets of flowers (Pookkalam), and temples echoing traditional songs and homes preparing the legendary Onam Sadya (Banana Leaf Vegetarian Feast).

Highlights:

• Boat races like Vallam Kali in Alappuzha
• Kathakali and traditional dance performances
• Temple processions and tiger dances (Pulikali)

Solis Tip: Book a Solis Nature stay near Alappuzha or Kochi to witness the grandeur of Onam firsthand and indulge in a Sadya meal prepared by local hosts.

2. Vishu: Welcoming the New Year

When: April 14, 2025
Where: Entire state, with a focus on northern Kerala districts

Vishu is the time of Malayalam New Year and it is time for hope, prosperity and gratitude. The essential ritual is “Vishukkani,” it is an arrangement of the first thing you see when you wake up, often  fruits, flowers, rice and mirrors. This beautiful tradition symbolizes richness, sets a positive tone for next year and reminds everyone to start with mindfulness and gratitude.

Traditions:

• Lighting firecrackers to welcome prosperity
• Offering coins to children (Vishukkaineettam)
• Visiting temples like Sabarimala and Guruvayur

Solis Tip: Choose a countryside retreat to witness authentic Malayali festival customs and early morning temple visits with the locals.

3. Thrissur Pooram: Kerala’s Greatest Temple Festival

When: May 7, 2025 (tentative) Where: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur

Thrissur Pooram is one of the most important festivals in Kerala. This temple festival is known for its elephant process, colorful parasols and stunning percussion ensemble. The sights of over 30 elephants are memories that take once in a lifetime, when they meet face to face. It’s not just a celebration, it’s an explosion of culture, traditions and a visual that brings the entire city to life.

Must-See Moments:

• The grand display of caparisoned elephants
• Firework displays that light up the night sky
• Traditional Panchavadyam music performances

Solis Tip: Stay at a Solis Nature property in Thrissur and join locals for a sunrise walk to the temple grounds.

4. Theyyam: Ritual Art Form Meets Festival

When: December to April (ongoing through early 2025)
Where: Kannur and Kasaragod districts

Theyyam is a vibrant and sacred dance ritual that blends performance with devotion. Each Theyyam ceremony becomes a transformative experience where dancers channel the divine and retell mythological tales through fierce costumes and dramatic movement.

Experience Includes:

• Early morning Theyyam performances in temple courtyards
• Ritual offerings and chants by local priests
• Community meals post-ceremony

Solis Tip: If you’re visiting North Kerala, don’t miss the chance to attend a Theyyam. Our properties nearby ensure a restful, culturally immersive stay.

5. Makaravilakku: Pilgrimage & Sacred Flame

When: January 14, 2025
Where: Sabarimala Temple

Makaravilakku is a revered spiritual festival observed at the famous Sabarimala temple. It coincides with Makar Sankranti and draws millions of pilgrims dressed in black or saffron robes. The sighting of the holy light (Makara Jyothi) is the climax of this intense spiritual journey.

Notable Observances:

• Fasting and 41-day penance by devotees
• Processions leading to the hill shrine
• Sighting of the celestial flame (Makara Jyothi)

Solis Tip: Though accommodations close to the temple are limited, Solis Nature offers tranquil getaways in nearby villages where guests can witness processions and rituals.

6. Attukal Pongala: The Biggest Women’s Gathering in the World

When: March 11, 2025
Where: Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Trivandrum

Attukal Pongala is one of the most important entries in the Kerala festivals list. Women gather in millions, lining the roads and open spaces around the temple to cook a sweet offering (pongala) for the goddess.

Highlights:

• The scent of jaggery, coconut, and rice wafting in the air
• Collective chanting and deep spiritual unity
• Guinness record for the largest gathering of women

Solis Tip: Stay in Trivandrum during this time and witness the city transform into a divine kitchen led entirely by women.

7. Christmas and New Year: Kerala Style

When: December 25, 2025 & January 1, 2026
Where: Widespread across Kerala

Kerala celebrates Christmas with as much zest as its traditional Hindu festivals. Churches are lit up, carols fill the air, and homes are decorated with stars and cribs. Coastal towns like Fort Kochi turn festive with lights, music, and international travelers.

Special Events:

• Midnight masses in historic churches
• Fireworks and beach celebrations
• The Cochin Carnival: Processions, street plays, and a giant effigy burning

Solis Tip: Fort Kochi is a top pick for year-end holidays. Book a Solis Nature stay in advance and join the festivities right at your doorstep.

Why Celebrate with Solis Nature?

The festival is the best experience with the people they live in. At Solis nature, we believe in travel  beyond visiting. Our platform combines local stays with travelers that reflect the soul, culture and sustainability of Kerala. 

What makes us different: 

• Culturally Sound Stays: From cultural heritage guest houses to eco retreats 
• Local Hosts: who will guide you through traditions, rituals & hidden gems 
• Prioritizing Sustainability: Promotion of mindful travel and maintenance of natural and cultural heritage 

It doesn’t just provide a place to stay. We offer a deeper way to experience the festivals.

Final Words: Celebrate Life the Kerala Way

Traditional Kerala festivals live a tradition rooted not only in calendar date but in spirituality, community and celebrations. Whether you are lighting the lamps in Vishu or not, participating in Trissur Pooram’s roque beats and cooking Pongala together with millions of women, 2025 is a year to dive into the cultural spirit of Kerala. 

Choose Solis Nature as the platform for a genuine festival experience and discover how celebrations and travel can come together in harmony.

Ready to Celebrate?

Book your stay at Solis Nature and align your travel plans with the vibrant Kerala festival calendar of 2025.

Experience joy. Embrace culture. Travel mindfully.