Goa festivals are an integral part of the state’s culture and heritage. Among the festivals of Goa, some are steeped in religious undertones while the others are expressions of the fun-loving nature of the people. The long colonial rule of the Portuguese notwithstanding, the majority of the Goans are Hindus and as such they celebrate most of the traditional festivals.
Bonderam Festival
The Bonderam festival is light-hearted harking back to the animosity that existed between two wards of a village during the Portuguese era. The two wards, Piedalda and Sao Mathias, in Divar Island used to engage in bitter feuds over property issues that often led to bloodshed and even death.
Feast of St. Francis Xavier
The Feast of St. Francis Xavier commemorates the death of St. Francis Xavier, patron saint of Goa. Fondly called the Goincho Saib or the Lord of Goa, St. Xavier was a Spanish Jesuit missionary who preached Christianity in many parts of Asia.
Feast of Three Kings
The Feast of Three Kings is unique among the scores of Christian festivals celebrated in Goa. The festival, also known as the Festa dos Reis or the Holy Epiphany, is celebrated in many parts of Goa but the most colorful ones are held in the Reis Magos church in Verem and the chapel of Our Lady of Cures in Cansaulim.
Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa
Ganesh Chaturthi is the most important festival celebrated in Goa. Observed as the birthday of the elephant-god Ganesha in the Hindu pantheon, Ganesh Chaturthi festival is marked by traditional fervor and gaiety. A festival with a pan-Indian spread, Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa holds the seat of pre-eminence among all other festivals.
Goa Carnival
The Goa carnival is synonymous with the state of Goa and is the manifestation of the quintessential fun-loving spirit of Goan’s at its sublime best. Largely a legacy of the Portuguese era, the Goa carnival has transcended the confines of its religious roots.
Shigmo
One of the most colorful festivals in Goa, Shigmo is celebrated by the Hindu majority with joyous festivities and elaborate parades. On the eve of Shigmo, usually observed in the month of March, a fiesta of color and rich cultural heritage unfolds across the length and breadth of Goa.
Sao Joao Festival
This is a festival that is celebrated with much cheer on 24th of June every year since during this day the catholic community pays honor to St. John the Baptist. The festivities involve a number of folk dances that are referred as ‘Sangodds’. The people of the village, mainly the young people make it a point to wear leaves and fruit laden crowns. People also present fruits to their in-laws as well as friends.
