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Onam

Immerse yourself in vibrant traditions, mesmerizing boat races, and divine cuisine this Onam, a joyful celebration of harvest and homecoming!

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August 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEOnam Thiruvonam (Kerala, drikpanchang)

OBSERVED INIndia

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYHindu

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Dive into the heart of Kerala, India's southernmost state, to indulge in the rich and vibrant festivities of Onam on September 5. This colorful feast of gratitude is a joyous celebration of harvest and homecoming that harkens back thousands of years. Originating from the Vamana avatar of Lord Vishnu and the subsequent homecoming of the Emperor Mahabali, Onam promises an exhilarating display of culture, tradition, and mouth-watering cuisine. Experience mesmerizing boat races, compelling folk tales, and divine delicacies that tantalize your taste buds on this traditionally significant day! From golden fields of harvest comes a golden opportunity to relish the ties that unite us; so come, make memories that last a lifetime, this Onam!

TIMELINE

Onam Timeline

Early References to Onam

Earliest mentions to the festival of Onam are found in Sangam literature and inscriptions from the Chera dynasty rule in Kerala.

British Documentation of Onam

British officials document the grandeur of Onam celebrations, including the traditional boat races, known as Vallam Kali.

Formal Recognition by Kerala Government

Onam is formally recognized as a state festival by the government of Kerala.

Establishment of Pulikkali Tiger Play

Pulikkali Tiger Play, a traditional Onam folk dance where performers paint themselves as tigers and hunters, is formally established as part of the celebrations.

Tourism during Onam

Due to the festival's cultural significance and grand celebrations, Onam becomes a major tourist attraction, boosting Kerala's tourism.

Eco-friendly Onam

A significant shift towards eco-friendly practices was observed in 2019 with the utilization of bio-degradable plates and utensils for Onam Sadya(feast).

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Onam

Create a Pookalam

One of the most emblematic traditions of Onam is to design your Pookalam- an intricate floral carpet made of blossoms. In the spirit of Onam, gather family and friends and create your own colorful Pookalam in your home.

PREPARE

Prepare a traditional Sadya

Onam cannot be truly celebrated without partaking in a traditional Sadya- a lavish vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf with up to 26 different dishes. Invite friends and family over and prepare this indulgent banquet together to cherish this tradition.

LISTEN

Listen to Onam songs and stories

Immerse yourself deeper in the culture of Kerala by listening to the traditional songs and folktales associated with Onam. Search for ballads and tales online or get a local friend to recount them for you.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in Vallamkali

If you're fortunate enough to be in Kerala during Onam, don't miss out on the chance to either participate in or watch the thrilling Snake Boat Race, also known as Vallamkali.

DRESS

Dress up in traditional Malayali attire

During Onam, men traditionally wear a white mundu with a golden border, while women dress up in a white saree with a golden border, called Set Mundu. Dressing in traditional attire is another meaningful way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Onam.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Onam is Important

A vibrant showcase of competitions and performances

Onam is also about fun and games. From the grandeur of Vallamkali (the snake boat races) to the creation of magnificent Pookalams (floral designs), there's plenty of entertainment and competition. The festival provides the perfect blend of culture, tradition, color and exuberance, offering a truly unforgettable experience!

Onam represents the richness of Kerala's culture and tradition

Onam celebrates the cultural heritage of Kerala. Its rituals, music, dance, and costumes all paint a vivid picture of the region's historical depth and cultural richness. Plus, the festival showcases the unifying spirit of the Kerala community, making it a high point in their cultural calendar.

Culinary delights that tantalize taste buds

Onam certainly has a lot to offer food lovers. From the traditional Sadya prepared on banana leaves to a wide variety of sweet treats, Onam celebrations are a true feast for the culinary senses. Trying out these traditional dishes is a highlight for many during this festival.