As kids, we’ve all dreamed about a magical land filled with twinkling lights and this is exactly what Goa looks like during Christmas. Every nook and corner of this charming city is decorated with Christmas lights, offering you moments that hold the potential to be inked in your memories for a long time. If you plan on visiting, here is everything you need to know about Christmas in Goa and the experiences you shouldn’t miss.
7 Jolly Experiences To Have A Merry Christmas In Goa
- Crib-Making And Star-Making Competitions
- Titillate Your Taste Buds At The Christmas Feast
- Get Awestruck At The Grandeur Of A River Cruise In Goa
- Witness The Midnight Mass
- Groove Through The Night At Christmas Eve Dances
- Enjoy The Stunning Firework Shows
- Let Loose At Sunburn In Goa
1. Crib-Making And Star-Making Competitions
One of the best ways to enjoy a festival is by celebrating it the way locals observe it. Crib-making and star-making are some of the most popular events during Christmas time and Goans take them very seriously. So many parishes across North and South Goa organize these events and locals chime in with enthusiasm.
These cribs and star-making competitions depict the birth of Jesus Christ in various creative ways. Many cribs and stars are made using eco-friendly reusable materials. So, if you want an authentic cultural experience, definitely go on crib hopping with your gang.
The annual star-making competition is organized by the Social Cultural and Welfare Association (SCWA). This year, the competition begins on December 21 at St Joseph Convent junction. You’ll be excited to participate when you hear of the prizes you get to win at this competition– INR 10,000 for the winner, followed by INR 7,000 and INR 5,000 for second and third runner-ups respectively (it’s a good gamble to retrieve a part of your budget for the trip, think!).
Places To Check Out Crib-Making And Star-Making Competitions
- Mapusa
- Madgaon
- Vasco City
- Caculo Mall
- Mall De Goa Mall
2. Titillate Your Taste Buds At The Christmas Feast
No festival is complete without delicious food and like every other department, Goa excels in this as well. Goan Christmas food consists of a large variety of traditional dishes. The Christmas feast includes a fine mix of sweet and flavorful dishes.
Little bit of advice? Drop your fitness regime because you’re going to drool over the aroma of freshly baked rum cakes, Feni (traditional liquor), and the famous Marzipan. This is also a time when you will be tasting traditional Goan sweets such as Dodol, Bath, Alle Belle, and Bebinca. There are so many restaurants, bakeries, and cake shops serving some of the most delicious Christmas feasts.
Places To Enjoy Christmas Feast In Goa
- Toro Toro
- House Of Llyods
- Casa Playa
- Dom Pedros
- St. Joseph Bakery
3. Get Awestruck At The Grandeur Of A River Cruise In Goa
Goa has the spirit and versatility to cater to any kind of traveler. If you’re looking to have a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience and budget is not a constraint, we’ll definitely suggest you get on a river cruise. It’s a fancy experience but it becomes even more surreal during Christmas time. The sky will be filled with firecrackers and the festive energy super-infectious, so sailing in luxury on the Mandovi River will be pure bliss!
If you’re interested, you can book your cruise from different agencies that are located in close proximity or if you want to book in advance, online booking too is available. All these agencies will offer packages depending on your budget. The elite package will offer a lavish dinner and services that’ll be catered to you. You’ll also be assigned a photographer who’ll capture your cruise experience for you. If you opt for the basic package, you’ll get a nominal experience with no fancy facilities.
The prices for the cruises vary depending on seating capacity, time traveled in the river, and the anchor time of the vessel.
Some Of The Best Christmas Cruises
- Catamaran Cruise
- Mandovi River Cruise
- Houseboat Cruise
- Deltin Royale Casino Cruise
- Big Daddy Casino
4. Witness The Midnight Mass
Goa is home to some of India’s most architecturally stunning and oldest churches. With over 25 churches, your options won’t end but you most certainly will be tired. There’s nothing better to do than experience a midnight mass at one of these beautiful churches on Christmas Eve.
Midnight mass is a popular tradition during Christmas and the spirit of the community makes it even more special. We’ll suggest you attend mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus which is one of the oldest churches in India. Try to grab a seat at the church around 10 pm so you get sufficient time to enjoy the carols and hymns.
Best Churches To Experience Midnight Mass
- Church Of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
- Se Cathedral
- Our Lady Of Good Hope Church
- Our Lady Of Grace Church
- Don Bosco Shrine
5. Groove Through The Night At Christmas Eve Dances
Dancing is a wonderful activity and Goa is hands down known for its party scenes which elevate to a dreamy extent when it’s Christmas time. There are so many pubs and clubs that organize special Christmas Eve waltz, performances by local bands, techno parties, and karaoke. Some clubs especially organize trance and rave parties so if you’re a party person, we don’t think any other experience will ever top this.
Best Beaches For A Mad Night Of Dancing On Christmas Eve
- Vagator Beach
- Anjuna Beach
- Candolim Beach
- Arambol Beach
- Calangute Beach
Best Clubs
- Soro – The Village Pub
- SinQ Beach Club
- TOY Beach Club
- Club Titos
- LPK Waterfront Club
6. Enjoy The Stunning Firework Shows
Goa is a pretty lit town on most days but it especially lights up during the Christmas season. The Christmas spirit can be seen everywhere and the firework shows are a true testament. When the bursting crackers from the lanes meet the party lights, the entire sky gets filled with blinding lights and moments of sheer dazzle. The reflection of the fireworks in the sea at midnight is a sight you’ll never forget.
Beaches To Enjoy Firework Shows
- Calangute Beach
- Baga Beach
- Bogmalo Beach
- Colva Beach
- Arambol Beach
7. Let Loose At Sunburn In Goa
If your Christmas trip extends up to New Year, you can consider going for the 3-day Sunburn festival. It’s especially a huge deal for fans of electronic music. Sunburn can definitely be one of the most fun ways to celebrate Christmas with insane electronic music, dance, and artists.
It’s a celebration of fun and music so if your Goa plans include your friends and you want to witness Christmas in an unforgettable way, start booking your tickets. The Sunburn festival 2023 is expected to happen from 28th to the 30th of December. Keep these dates in mind if you plan on attending.
Ticket Price: INR 3,000 onwards
Location: Vagator, Goa
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Thivim
Nearest Major City: Panaji
Summing Up
Goa knows how to party and when it comes to celebrating Christmas, the state is the safest option to experience Christmas in its true spirit. We’re sure that our list of Christmas experiences will help you plan your celebrations better. So, go ahead and start booking because before you know it, everything will be booked!
FAQs
Is Christmas A Good Time To Visit Goa?
Christmas is a dreamy time to visit Goa. It looks like a literal paradise with all the lighting, decoration, and fireworks. It’s a perfect time to visit Goa if your aim is to party all night and immerse in the festive vibes.
How Cold Is Goa In December?
December is one of the best times to visit Goa because it falls under the time when the town experiences a short period of winter. The temperatures are around 25 to 28 degree celsius, making it pleasantly cool.
What Is Special In Goa For Christmas?
Goa livens up during Christmas with magical lights and mind-blowing parties. With the masses, feasts, events, and music, you’ll have a lot to look forward to.
How Should I Dress In Goa?
When one mentions Goa, floral dresses are the first thing that comes to mind, and rightly so. Other than adorable sundresses, you can also pack bikinis, overalls, shorts, tank tops, and midi dresses. Although, you can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Why Is Goa Costly In December?
December is the peak tourist season in Goa. With Christmas celebrations, the Sunburn festival, and New Year parties, tourists flock to the party town to have the best time which is one of the main reasons behind the high prices.
Where Can I Enjoy Christmas In Goa?
If you’re in Goa during Christmas, you’re certainly going to enjoy it. Goa has a lot to offer from bustling bars, clubs, great restaurants, and bakeries offering mouthwatering Christmas feasts and sweets. You can also visit the Goan churches and streets to simply soak in the Christmas spirit.
