The Onam festival in Kerala is not just a celebration – it’s a homecoming, a cultural spectacle, and a symbol of prosperity.
Rooted in the legendary story of King Mahabali’s annual visit, Onam blends myth, tradition, and community spirit.
From vibrant pookalam (flower carpets) and grand feasts called Onam Sadhya to colorful boat races and folk art performances, Onam unites Malayalis across the globe.
If you’re wondering when the Onam festival in Kerala 2025 is, what its significance is, or how best to experience it, this guide brings you all the answers.
When is The Onam Festival in Kerala 2025?
- Onam 2025 festival period: Tuesday, August 26 – Friday, September 5, 2025 (10-day celebration).
- Main day (Thiruvonam): Friday, September 5, 2025.
- Public holiday: In Kerala, September 5, 2025 is officially declared as the Onam festival holiday in Kerala.
- Malayalam calendar date: Chingam 20, 1201 ME (Thiruvonam Nakshathram).
So if you’re planning to experience Onam, keep these dates marked – festivities peak on Thiruvonam but extend throughout the 10 days.
Significance of The Onam Festival in Kerala
The significance of the Onam festival in Kerala lies in the story of King Mahabali, a just and generous ruler whose reign is remembered as a golden age.
As per mythology, Lord Vishnu, in his Vamana avatar, permitted Mahabali to visit his people once every year. Onam commemorates this homecoming, and Malayalis welcome him with joy, food, flowers, and festivities.
Culturally, Onam also marks the harvest season and the start of Chingam, the first month of the Malayalam calendar – symbolizing prosperity, unity, and renewal.
How To Celebrate The Onam Festival in Kerala
Onam is celebrated with a blend of rituals, cultural programs, and family gatherings. Some major highlights include:
- Pookalam (Flower Carpets): Families design intricate floral patterns at the entrance of their homes from the first day (Atham) till Thiruvonam.
- Onam Sadhya: A traditional feast served on banana leaves, featuring over 20 dishes like sambar, avial, olan, payasam, and crispy banana chips.
- Vallam Kali (Onam Boat Race): Snake boat races, particularly the Aranmula Uthrittathi Boat Race, draw thousands of spectators to the backwaters.
- Cultural Shows: Kathakali, Pulikali (tiger dance in Thrissur), Kaikottikali (women’s dance), and other folk arts showcase Kerala’s heritage.
- Temple Celebrations: Temples across Kerala hold special pujas, lighting, and community events.
Onam Boat Race 2025 – A Must-See Celebration
One of the most thrilling events during Onam is the Onam festival boat race, where massive snake boats (chundan vallams) row in perfect rhythm to traditional songs.
- Aranmula Uthrittathi Boat Race: Scheduled for September 9, 2025, at the Pamba River, Pathanamthitta.
- Nehru Trophy Boat Race (Alappuzha): Though not always coinciding with Onam, it remains one of the most famous boat races in Kerala, usually in August.
These races are not just competitions but cultural extravaganzas, reflecting Kerala’s community spirit and devotion to tradition.
Onam Festival Celebrated in Kerala – Where to Experience It
If you’re visiting Kerala during Onam, here are the top places to witness the festival:
- Thrissur: Famous for Pulikali (tiger dance) and vibrant cultural programs.
- Aranmula (Pathanamthitta): The Best place for the historic boat race.
- Kochi & Ernakulam: Hosts large-scale pookalam contests, temple festivities, and shopping fairs.
- Thiruvananthapuram: The capital city lights up with Onam exhibitions, fairs, and cultural events.
- Kottayam & Alappuzha: Known for their village-style Onam celebrations and local boat races.
Onam Festival This Year: Key Takeaways
- Onam festival in Kerala 2025: August 26 – September 5.
- Thiruvonam (main day & holiday): September 5, 2025.
- Highlights: Pookalam, Onam Sadhya, Vallam Kali, Pulikali, temple fairs.
- Cultural Significance: Celebrates King Mahabali’s visit and Kerala’s harvest season.
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Summing Up
The Onam festival in Kerala 2025 will be a spectacular mix of tradition, food, art, and community. Falling on September 5, 2025 (Thiruvonam) with celebrations stretching over ten days, it offers the perfect opportunity to experience Kerala’s cultural richness.
Whether you’re enjoying the flavors of an authentic Onam Sadhya, watching the adrenaline-filled Onam boat race, or admiring the intricate pookalam, Onam is a reminder of togetherness and prosperity.
If you’ve ever wanted to witness Kerala at its cultural best, Onam 2025 is the time to be there.
