The
diversity in fairs and festivals in Goa reflects the traditional and rich
heritage of this state of India. The rich culture of Goa is a combination of diverse
faith and tradition flowing among the inhabitants of this place. These fairs
and festivals give a region to rejoice for the vibrant people of Goa. Generally
these festivals are linked with spiritual occasions. During the festivals people
come out on the streets wearing cheerful apparels and sing and dance and make
merry.
Chief Fairs and Festivals of Goa
Here is a
list of some of the popular fairs and festivals in Goa -
Goa Carnival:
This is one
of the most popular fairs of Goa. People wait anxiously for this time of the
year. As the month of February draws closer, this vibrant state starts bustling
with carnival preparation. Over the years it has become a popular event not
only among the inhabitants but also among foreign tourists. One thing that never
stops in these three days of amusement is the lively music. This carnival
features numerous interesting activities which show the true colors of Goan
culture. visit:
Sea Food Festival:
During this
festival the people of Goa rejoice with affluent Goan sea food for five
continuous days. Premiere hotels and chefs arrange their stalls and demonstrate
exotic sea food cooked by them.
Feast of St Francis Xavier:
The feast is
celebrated in the month of December at Basilica. Many tourists from all over
the world visit Goa during this time. St. Francis Xavier is a legendary
Christian saint and it is believed among his followers that even after his
death, the corpse of this holy person did not decompose unlike other mortals.
Monte Music Festival:
This is the
latest festival which has been celebrated in Goa in recent years. In this
festival you will be able to observe the blend of Indian classical music with
the western classical. The performances are generally conducted for four
continuous days and it offers a stage to young talents who demonstrate their
creativity in front of passionate audience.
Shigmotsav:
This event
is celebrated in the month of March. This event is for the masses where people
from different towns dress in vivacious clothes and indulges in the
cheerfulness of the moment. Singing and dancing, the crowd make their way to
the shrine. The chief attraction of this event is the Rang Panchami during
which everyone hurls gulal at each other.
Kesarbai Kerkar Music Festival:
This
festival is celebrated in Panjim, the capital city of Goa. It has been
celebrated since the last 24 years and this event offers chance to rejoice for
the music fanatics as it offers exceptional performances of music.
Goa Heritage Festival:
This
festival aims at nourishing and advocating the legacy of Goa. In this festival
various performers and artists display their work of art. Goa Heritage Festival
not only celebrates the cultural prosperity of Goa but also thrives to spread
awareness and approval in the minds of local people so that they respect and
preserve their culture for the advantage of the coming generations.
There are
many more fairs and festivals celebrated in Goa which is also chiefly known for
its festive mood throughout the year.
Author: Giby Joseph