Just like the monsoon season in Goa has its own style, the festivals celebrated in Goa during monsoon also have their own specialty. From cultural festivals to religious rituals, each festival celebrated in Goa during monsoon has its own charm, giving tourists and locals a glimpse of the rich traditions of Goa. In this article, we will discuss the upcoming festivals that bring something different to this sea paradise during the monsoon season. If you are planning a trip to Goa, try to plan your trip during these festivals, it can double the fun of your Goa trip. (All photo credit: Wikimedia Commons)
Sao Joao Festival
One of the most popular monsoon festivals in Goa is the Sao Joao Festival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the state. Named after St. John the Baptist, this festival is all about water, where people jump into wells, rivers and ponds and indulge in water activities. The Sao Joao Festival is celebrated in Goa every year on June 24. Colourful water floats, traditional music and locals and tourists alike wearing coppel (flower garlands) add to the festive atmosphere, making it a joyous occasion for everyone.
Sangod Festival
The monsoon festivities begin with the Sangod festival, a traditional boat festival celebrated by the fishermen community in Goa. The feast of St. Peter and St. Paul is celebrated in Goa every year on June 29. St. Peter has a deep significance for the fishermen community and this festival marks the beginning of the 'Rampan' fishing season. To celebrate this festival, small boats are joined together to create a stage-like structure over the water. Decorated boats adorned with coconut leaves, flowers and colourful balloons serve as the stage to celebrate this day. The beauty of the boats floating on the water is mesmerizing. Fishermen dressed in traditional attire entertain the audience with folk dances, musical performances, dramas, etc.
Mud Kalo Festival
During the monsoon season in Goa, particularly in June, a religious festival known as the “Mud Festival” is celebrated. Originating from Marcel village in Ponda, this unique festival is centered around the Devaki Krishna Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his mother Devaki. Though the origin of this festival is not yet known, the locals celebrate it with great enthusiasm every year. The festival is a fun-filled affair, with participants happily rolling in mud and participating in traditional games. The ground near the Devaki Krishna Temple turns into a bustling ground to welcome the attendees.
Toxacamé Festival
In this, devotees offer cucumbers to St. O'Hara as a symbol of devotion. This unique tradition reflects the abundance of cucumbers in this season. Cucumbers also symbolize the first harvest of the season in Goa. According to the Christian priest, people bring two cucumbers, place one at the feet of Our Lady, while touching the other to the holy idol. The cucumbers offered during the festival are distributed among the local community, priests and nearby villages. Some people like to taste fresh cucumbers, while others eat them in salads.
Bondera Festival
As monsoon rains drench the landscape, the beautiful island of Divar comes alive with the Bondermere Festival. Held on the fourth Saturday of August, the festival is highlighted by colourful parades featuring mock battles between rival village clans. Each group displays floats adorned with flags, and vie for the coveted trophy. The festival draws a large number of tourists, culminating in a vibrant celebration of Goan culture with music, dance and delicious food.
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