The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) 2026 returns to South Mumbai from January 31 to February 8, 2026. This 26th edition transforms the historic Fort precinct into a nine-day celebration of multidisciplinary art, heritage, and community. With the theme “Ahead of the Curve,” here are the top 10 things to do.
10 Things To Do At Kala Ghoda Arts Festival
1. Witness Ricky Kej’s Festival Debut
In a major highlight for this year, three-time Grammy winner Ricky Kej live at Kala Ghoda 2026 will make his first-ever appearance at the festival. His performance is scheduled for February 7, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Cross Maidan. Expect an immersive audiovisual experience themed around sustainability and Indian culture. It is a free event, so make sure you go there early to get a spot with a good view.
2. Catch The Cross Maidan Music Lineup
If you’re looking for free concerts in South Mumbai February 2026, the Cross Maidan music lineup today is the place to be. While the Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy concert is a separately ticketed event in Kurla, KGAF features incredible talent like Rahul Sharma (santoore fusion) for the inauguration and some of the best indie bands at KGAF 2026 performing nightly under the stars.
3. Explore The Best Art Installations
Rampart Row and Horniman Circle Garden serve as the festival’s heart. The best art installations to see at KGAF 2026 include large-scale interactive sculptures that encourage public participation. Look for “The Spirit of Kala Ghoda” and the “Networks of the Past” exhibition at the CSMVS (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya) Museum.
4. Join Curated Heritage Walks
The festival offers a deep dive into Bombay’s history. For Kala Ghoda 2026 heritage walk tickets and registration, visit the Heritage Help Desk near Ador House at 10:00 AM or 3:00 PM to collect physical passes. Highlights include the “Oval Outing” and the “Wandering Around Wadia Clock Tower” walk.
5. Discover Children’s Workshops At CSMVS
The Kala Ghoda 2026 kids activities schedule is packed with creative learning. Key highlights include:
- Children’s workshops at CSMVS museum: “Marble Run Mania” and “Space Cadets Flying Lesson.”
- KGAF storytelling sessions for kids: Interactive narratives held daily at the Museum lawns.
6. Shop For Unique Crafts At Rampart Row
Support local artisans by browsing the handcrafted bags and jewelry at Rampart Row. The 2026 edition places a strong focus on eco-friendly stalls at Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, featuring upcycled materials, sustainable textiles, and organic products.
7. Attend “The Story Pitch Room”
In collaboration with Bound, this year’s literature vertical features “The Story Pitch Room” at the David Sassoon Library, where emerging writers pitch their ideas to publishing scouts—a must-see for literary enthusiasts.
8. Savor The KGAF Food Walk
While exploring, indulge in the best food stalls at Kala Ghoda 2026. Be sure to try the Prawns Biryani at KGAF food walk, a perennial favorite found at the regional cuisine pop-ups near the entrance of the precinct.
9. Experience Theatre At Yashwantrao Chavan Centre
For a more intimate experience, the theatre vertical moves to the Yashwantrao Chavan Centre. The schedule features a diverse array of live stories, including the play Mahadev, which blends celestial mythology with contemporary storytelling.
10. Visit the Restored David Sassoon Library
Beyond the events, simply visiting the newly restored David Sassoon Library is an experience. It serves as a quiet sanctuary for literary panels and book launches amidst the bustling street energy.
Summing Up
The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2026 remains a pinnacle of Mumbai’s cultural calendar. By combining high-profile debuts like Ricky Kej with grassroots Children’s workshops at CSMVS, the festival ensures that art remains accessible to everyone. Since it is a free public event, venues fill up quickly – plan to arrive by mid-afternoon to secure your spot for the evening performances.
