Goa is known for more than just its vibrant nightlife and sun-kissed beaches; it is also home to vibrant festivals that showcase the vibrant culture and infectious joy of its people. Known for its unforgettable festive calendar, Goa hosts amazing music events, colorful cultural fests, and a mouthwatering food carnival. These festivals in Goa offer something unique for everyone, whether you’re into cultural celebrations, parties, or cuisine. Get a feel for when Goa’s most popular festivals will be in 2025 before you go so you can schedule your trip accordingly.
March 8, 2025, Saturday: Shigmo festival
Among the most prominent traditional Hindu festivals in Goa is the Shigmo. Often called “Goa’s version of Holi,” it is a festival celebrated to welcome spring. Traditional Goan folk dancers such as Fugdi and Ghode Modni, as well as floats depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, bring life to the streets in vibrant parades. With jubilant music, color throwing, and mouth-watering Goan cuisine, locals and visitors alike partake in the celebrations. You shouldn’t miss the grand float parades, which take place over the course of two weeks at different towns in Goa. Panaji, Margao, and Ponda are the best spots to see the festivities. For those curious about Goa’s rich cultural history, the Shigmo festival is a must-visit event.
Saturday, April 9–Sunday, April 9–13: Goa Food and Cultural Festival
Going to the Goa Food and Cultural Festival is an absolute must if you’re a foodie. The pinnacle of Goan music, cuisine, and culture will be on display during this five-day event that takes place from April 9th to the 13th, 2025. This annual event is organized by the Tourism Department of Goa and is held at the Campal Grounds in Panaji. Your taste buds are in for a real treat with the wide variety of dishes available, including seafood, fusion cuisine, street food, and local specialties. Live music, performances by local bands, art displays, dance troops, and food stalls create an atmosphere reminiscent of a carnival. Indulge in the exquisite Goan atmosphere while learning about the rich culinary history of Goa.
Tuesday, June 24th, São João Festival
The São João festival is a unique monsoon celebration that takes place in North Goa, particularly in the villages surrounding Siolim. Celebrated annually on June 24th, it pays tribute to St. John the Baptist, who supposedly leaped for joy while still a baby in his mother’s womb. The young men partake in this festival tradition by jumping into ponds, wells, and streams after having a small drink of the local Feni. As they dance and sing traditional songs, participants wear flower crowns called kopel. Colorful boats, live music, and water games create an energetic and joyful atmosphere. Witnessing Catholic traditions and enjoying the breathtaking landscape of Goa during the rains is an incredible experience. Car rent in Goa can get you to all the best festival locations, so it’s a great option if you want to attend this incredible event.
Thursday through Friday, November 20–28, Goa International Film Festival
One of the most significant events in Goa for cinephiles is the Goa International Film Festival, which is also called the International Film Festival of India. From November 20th through the 28th, 2025, this festival will unite moviegoers, actors, and filmmakers from all over the globe. Master classes, panel discussions, and screenings of foreign features, documentaries, and retrospectives are some of the highlights, and the event is mostly held in Panaji. If you’re a cinephile or simply enjoy a good film, you shouldn’t miss this festival. It’s a great chance to learn about international cinema while relaxing on the beach. The intellectual and artistic sides of Goa come to life during this time, and you can even spot some famous faces.
Saturday, December 27 through Monday, December 29th, Sunburn Festival
Sunburn Festival, the largest Electronic Dance Music festival in Asia, is a fitting way to cap off the year. It is customarily held in Vagator Beach, North Goa, and it is scheduled to take place from December 27 to 29, 2025. Some of the world’s best DJs and music fans gather at this festival every year. Stages, pyrotechnics, food courts, and shopping zones all come together in one massive celebration of music, dance, and energy at the festival. Sunburn is the place to be if you’re into wild parties, with thousands of people dancing under the stars. If you want to feel the contemporary Goan party vibe, this is one of the must-do activities.
Which way to go?
You need to be able to move at your own leisure in order to fully appreciate this festival. Hire car in Goa is a convenient and enjoyable way for tourists to see the many towns and festival locations in Goa. Use the thar rent in Goa services offered at the airport and other major locations for last-minute plans and day excursions to picturesque locations in between festivals.
Last remarks
In 2025, Goa isn’t just a destination for beach vacations; the calendar is jam-packed with exciting festivals. Every event, from Sunburn, where you can dance to electronic dance music, to Shigmo, where you can immerse yourself in tradition, will enrich your travel story in its own unique way. You will have the most authentic Goan experience if you schedule your visit around these dates.
