Goa, one of the most loved tourist destinations in India, is all set to celebrate Shigmo or Shigmotsav 2026. It is known as the most awaited and vibrant festival in the state of Goa. It welcomes the spring season and celebrates the rich folk traditions through music, dance, and artistic expressions. From dates to the event schedule, here’s everything you need to know about Shigmostsav 2026.
Shigmotsav 2026 Guide
Shigmotsav 2026: Dates And Event Schedule
Goa is all set to celebrate Shigmo or Shigmotsav 2026, which is a vibrant cultural festival. This year, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik informed that the Shigmo will be held from 05th March 2026 to 18th March 2026. He also mentioned that colourful float parades will be organised across 19 centres in Goa.
The festivities will begin in Ponda on March 5, 2026, and end in Pernem on March 18, 2026.
5 March 2026 – Ponda
6 March 2026 – Calungute
7 March 2026 – Panaji
8 March 2026 – Mapusa
9 March 2026 – Mandrem
10 March 2026 – Bicholim
11 March 2026 – Sanquelim
12 March 2026 – Shiroda and Sanguem
13 March 2026 – Dharbandora and Cuncolim
14 March 2026 – Margao
15 March 2026 – Porvorim and Vasco
16 March 2026 – Valpoi and Curchorem
17 March 2026 – Quepem and Cancona
18 March 2026 – Pernem
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Difference Between Shigmo And Holi In Goa 2026
Shigmo is a 14 days long festival with structured village events, Dhakto (folk songs) and Vhadlo (temple rituals). It culminates in energetic street fun for tourists, that talks about the end of winter and beginning of spring. This festival showcases the identity of Goans through costumes and heroic dance dramas. It is hence a known attraction among cultural enthusiasts.
Holi is a single-day celebration of colors and bhang. It does not have any parade associated with it but equally joyous across Goa. This festival is celebrated across India in different ways and not a festival celebrated only in Goa.
Shigmotsav 2026: Celebrations In Goa
This unique cultural festival is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across the state. The villages and towns here add their own unique touch to the festival and make it more memorable.
Local Temple Rituals
The festival begins with religious rituals and prayers at the local temple. The temples carry their local deity in a palki, escorted by the villagers and musical chants.
Village Celebrations
The Shigmotsav festival is celebrated with feasts, folk dance, gathering which turns the village into a festive spot.
Types of Shigmotsav
There are two variations of Shigmotsav. Dhakto Shigmotsav and Vhadlo Shigmotsav. In rural areas, farmers mainly celebrate Dhakto Shigmotsav while the Vhadlo Shigmotsav is celebrated by larger city communities.
Grand Parades
The well-known towns like Margao, Panaji, Mapusa, Vasco, and Calangute host grand parades. It features floats, dancers, and performers making it one of the biggest attraction for tourists visiting Goa during Shimotsav.
Summing Up
Shigmotsav 2026 is a cultural celebration of Goa’s heritage and culture through folk dances, parades, palkhis, and more.
FAQs
What Is Shigmotsav?
Shigmotsav is Goa’s vibrant spring harvest festival that is celebrated with colorful parades, drum processions, folk dances, and themed floats.
Which Is The Best Day To Attend Shigmo 2026?
The best day to attend Shigmo 2026 is in Panaji.
What Are Dhakla And Thorla Shigmo?
Dhakla Shigmo (small Shigmo) involves intimate village rituals and Thorla Shigmo (big Shigmo) includes elaborate costumes, drawing tourists for its high-energy street celebrations.
