15 Popular Indian Festivals Celebrated in August 2026

By - July 30, 2026 - August, Festivals, India
onam festival

India’s cultural diversity can be seen most clearly through its festivals. Different religions, regional traditions, historic customs and local communities come together throughout the year to celebrate with rituals, music, food, fairs and colourful public events.

August is especially lively because the monsoon adds freshness to the landscape while several important festivals take place across the country. From traditional boat races and religious observances to community fairs, music events and coastal celebrations, the month offers travellers many opportunities to experience India’s energy, heritage and festive spirit.

Here are 15 famous Indian festivals taking place in August 2026:

1. Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race

Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race Kerala

Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026

Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race is one of the best-known and typical festivals in August in India.

This exciting boat race arranged at Punnamada Lake in Alleppey is a competition between thousands of men rowing snake boats. It celebrated on second Saturday of August.

This lovely festival in August displays the great passion for bonding, team spirit, and coordination and finally spots the onset of 10 days long Onam festival in the state of Kerala. Furthermore, the watchers can enjoy this beautiful event by sitting on the edges of the lake or by staying in houseboats.

The other famous occasion of the same type is the Aranmula Snake Boat Race. This is a thrilling boat race that occurs on the Pampa River in Alleppey marking the end of the Onam festival.

Location: Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha, Kerala

Highlights:

  • Spectacular snake boat races with decorated boats.
  • Traditional music and vibrant cultural performances.
  • A grand procession with beautifully adorned boats.

Best Time to Visit: Early August

Activities:

  • Witness the thrilling boat races.
  • Enjoy local cuisine and traditional Kerala snacks.
  • Experience the vibrant cultural programs and music.

Tips:

  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
  • Carry sunscreen and hats as it can be sunny.
  • Book accommodations in advance due to high demand.
Kerala Travel Itinerary:

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2. Onam

onam-celebration.jpg

Date: Sun, 16 Aug, 2026 – Tue, 25 Aug, 2026

Onam is considered one of the great Indian festivals in August which should not be missed by people. This festival is celebrated for 10 days all over Kerala and especially in places like Thrissur, Trivandrum, and Kottayam.

Basically, this festival in August is celebrated in memory of a legendary king named Mahabali who returns his home back. Local people wear traditional clothing, decorate their houses, and make special food to increase the spirit of the Onam festival.

During this festival, you can enjoy boat races, Kathakali dance shows, Kaikottikali shows, elephant rallies, and Pulikali processions.

Location: Kerala

Highlights:

  • Intricate floral arrangements (Pookalam).
  • Traditional Onam Sadhya (feast) served on banana leaves.
  • Cultural performances, including Kathakali dance and Pulikali (Tiger Dance).

Best Time to Visit: Late August to early September

Activities:

  • Participate in the community Onam celebrations.
  • Enjoy the grand feast with various traditional dishes.
  • Witness traditional dances and processions.

Tips:

  • Dress in traditional Kerala attire for an authentic experience.
  • Visit local homes or community centers to enjoy the festivities.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

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3. Athachamayam Festival

Athachamayam Festival Kerala

Date: August 15, 2026

Athachamayam is one of the best cultural festivals in August which is celebrated along with the Onam festival in Kerala. It is a festival which exhibits the happiness of the heroic victory of the royal king of Kochi.

It is considered one of the most energetic festivals in Kerala where you can find local inhabitants dressed in traditional clothes and enjoying folk dance and music.

You can check out different colored tableaus displaying local traditions, elephant rallies, culture, and art forms during this festival in the month of August. The inhabitants of Kerala dress up like tigers and take part in rallies.

Location: Thripunithura, Ernakulam, Kerala

Highlights:

  • Grand procession featuring decorated floats.
  • Traditional music, dance, and art performances.
  • Display of cultural and historical scenes.

Best Time to Visit: Early August

Activities:

  • Join the procession and enjoy the cultural displays.
  • Taste local delicacies from street vendors.
  • Engage with local artisans and craftsmen.

Tips:

  • Arrive early to find a good spot for viewing the procession.
  • Carry water and snacks as the event can be long.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

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4. Nag Panchami

Nag Panchami Festival

Date: Mon, 17 Aug, 2026

Nag Panchami holds a vital place among the old-age Indian festivals in August in India. This is the most unique and brave festival where people worship snakes.

Nag Panchami which is celebrated on a favorable day of the lunar month of Shraavana is observed in full eminence and pomp in the rural areas of India and Nepal. During this festival, snakes are taken in the parade to the temple and dedicated people dance to the music of being.

This festival comes after Jhapan Mela which is a tribal festival, where you can see the Goddess Manasa being worshipped. Jhapan Mela is a rural fair indicating several tricks with snakes and is mostly found in the interior regions of the Vishnupur and Bankura districts in West Bengal.

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Location: Celebrated across India, especially in Maharashtra and Karnataka

Highlights:

  • Ritualistic worship of snakes.
  • Traditional dances and music performances.
  • Special prayers and offerings in temples.

Best Time to Visit: Early August

Activities:

  • Participate in the temple rituals and prayers.
  • Observe traditional dances and cultural performances.
  • Try local sweets and snacks prepared for the festival.

Tips:

  • Respect local beliefs and customs regarding snake worship.
  • Wear modest clothing suitable for temple visits.
  • Be cautious around live snakes, commonly part of the celebrations.

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5. Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan Festival

Date: Friday, August 28

In the month of Shraavana, on every full moon day which correlates with August, this popular festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated all over India. It is mostly celebrated in the north, west, and central parts of the country.

Without any doubt, this amazing list of Indian festivals in the month of August is incomplete without specifying Raksha Bandhan. It is enjoyed with great pleasure in the honor of love and bonding between a brother and a sister.

In this festival, the sister ties the rakhi which is a holy thread around the brother’s wrist and does the prayer for his well-being and long life while the brother promises to take care of her lifelong.

Location: Celebrated across India

Highlights:

  • Sisters tying rakhi (sacred thread) on brothers’ wrists.
  • Exchange of gifts and sweets.
  • Special prayers for sibling well-being.

Best Time to Visit: Early August

Activities:

  • Participate in the rakhi-tying ceremony.
  • Enjoy the festive sweets and snacks.
  • Experience the family gatherings and celebrations.

Tips:

  • Purchase rakhi from local markets for an authentic experience.
  • Respect the familial and cultural significance of the festival.
  • Join in the celebrations with friends or host families.

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6. Teej

Teej Festival

Date: Saturday, 15th August

Indian festivals which are enjoyed in the month of August in India are not complete without Teej, where you can find the Teej Goddess being worshipped by Rajasthani women with full excitement.

Promoting complete splendor and glory, the festival of Teej is celebrated in each and every area of Jaipur city which includes traditional songs, music, dance, carnivals, and local cuisines.

During this festival time, the local woman wears green traditional clothing, wears bangles, and mehndi, and carries the idol of Goddess Teej in a golden palanquin along with the city. The march is covered with decorated elephants, horses, and camels. Special sweet dishes such as Malpoa and Ghewar are prepared in every house.

The foundation day of Madras, now Chennai is held on the 30th of August in India. To give respect and for the celebration of the same.

The full week is enjoyed with pleasure having the splendor and pomp overall the city.  The whole city of Chennai in Tamil Nadu is furnished with flowers and lights and several fairs, tours, shows, and recreational occasions are arranged for locals and visitors.

This festival is famous for bike tours, food walks, heritage walks, and lastly photo exhibitions.

Location: Mainly in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh

Highlights:

  • Ritualistic fasting and prayers by women.
  • Traditional dances, music, and swings.
  • Vibrant fairs and cultural events.

Best Time to Visit: Late August

Activities:

  • Join the local women in their prayers and rituals.
  • Enjoy traditional Teej songs and dances.
  • Visit local fairs and savor festive foods.

Tips:

  • Wear traditional attire to blend in with the celebrations.
  • Respect the fasting customs of the women.
  • Capture the vibrant colors and joyous atmosphere in photographs.

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7. Tarnetar Fair

Tarnetar Fair Gujarat

Date: August 26 to August 29, 2026

One of the other striking festivals in August in India is the Tarnetar fair which takes place near the temple of Triniteshwar Mahadev in the state of Gujarat.

The fair was truly arranged as a search space for a spouse for tribal communities. It is basically a rural fair where one can watch out and have a great experience of brave stunts, tribal dance, magic shows, merry-go-rounds, local cuisines, handicraft shops, camel rides tattoo stalls.

This festival is special for Rahado folk dance and shows of Jodia Pava.

Location: Tarnetar, Gujarat

Highlights:

  • Traditional dance and music performances.
  • Display of local arts and crafts.
  • Vibrant fair with rides, games, and stalls.

Best Time to Visit: Late August to early September

Activities:

  • Explore the fair and participate in various activities.
  • Try local Gujarati dishes and sweets.
  • Engage with local artisans and purchase handicrafts.

Tips:

  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear for the fair.
  • Carry cash for purchases and fair activities.
  • Be prepared for large crowds and bustling activities.

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8. Covelong Point Surf, Music, and Yoga Festival

Music and Yoga Festival

Date: August 6 to August 8, 2026

Being the most famous and unique kind of cultural festival in August in India, Covelong Point Surf, Music, and Yoga Festival fascinates so many music and health lovers throughout the year. This festival is celebrated in Kovalam village in Chennai.  This cultural feast characterizes different types of events and performances such as shows of Indian and Foreign musicians, national-level surfing competitions, screenings of world cinema, and meditation workshops. People connecting with this festival will be in great confusion in selecting the activities to indulge in.

From relaxing at the beach, enjoying some great food at the organic food stalls, and participating in kayak races to beach volleyball matches, there is something to experience and enjoy for the people. This festival is most famous for having yoga on the beach, healing music therapies, and water gunfights.

Location: Covelong (Kovalam), Tamil Nadu

Highlights:

  • Surfing competitions and lessons.
  • Live music performances.
  • Yoga sessions and wellness workshops.

Best Time to Visit: Late August

Activities:

  • Take part in surfing lessons or watch the competitions.
  • Enjoy live music by local and international artists.
  • Participate in yoga and wellness sessions.

Tips:

  • Pack swimwear and beach essentials.
  • Book accommodations in advance as it’s a popular event.
  • Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen for outdoor activities.

9. Aadi Perukku

Expected Date: August 3, 2026

Aadi Perukku is a traditional Tamil festival celebrating rivers, water resources and agricultural prosperity. It falls on the eighteenth day of the Tamil month of Aadi and is observed mainly along the banks of the Kaveri River.

Families gather near rivers, lakes and other water bodies to offer flowers, lamps, rice dishes and prayers. Trichy, Srirangam, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam and other parts of the Kaveri delta are among the best places to experience the occasion.

Where Celebrated: Tamil Nadu, particularly the Kaveri delta

Festival Highlights: Riverbank rituals, traditional food, family gatherings, prayers for prosperity and colourful offerings

10. India’s Independence Day

Date: August 15, 2026

India celebrates Independence Day every year on August 15 to commemorate the country’s independence in 1947. The national flag is raised at government buildings, schools, historic monuments and public spaces across the country.

The principal ceremony takes place at Delhi’s Red Fort, while cultural programmes, patriotic performances, parades and kite flying are organised in many cities. In 2026, Independence Day falls on a Saturday.

Where Celebrated: Across India, with the main national ceremony in Delhi

Festival Highlights: Flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances, patriotic events, parades and kite flying

11. Parsi New Year

Expected Date: August 15, 2026

Parsi New Year, also called Navroz or Pateti in common usage, marks the beginning of a new year for sections of India’s Zoroastrian community. Families visit fire temples, wear traditional clothes, decorate their homes and prepare festive meals.

Mumbai and Gujarat have some of India’s largest Parsi communities, making them important places to experience the cultural atmosphere surrounding the celebration. The listed holiday date for 2026 is August 15, though community observances may follow local calendars.

Where Celebrated: Mumbai, Gujarat and other cities with Parsi communities

Festival Highlights: Fire-temple prayers, festive meals, floral decorations, family gatherings and charitable activities

12. Milad-un-Nabi

Expected Date: August 26, 2026

Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Eid-e-Milad, commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad. Mosques and neighbourhoods are decorated, while religious gatherings, prayer meetings, charitable programmes and processions are organised in many parts of India.

The observance is expected on August 26, 2026, according to India’s holiday calendar. However, the final date can vary because it depends on the Islamic lunar calendar and local moon sighting.

Where Celebrated: Across India, particularly in Hyderabad, Lucknow, Delhi, Mumbai and Kashmir

Festival Highlights: Religious gatherings, mosque decorations, devotional recitations, processions and community meals

13. Narali Purnima

Date: August 28, 2026

Narali Purnima is a coastal festival celebrated primarily by fishing communities in Maharashtra, Goa and parts of western India. Devotees offer coconuts to the sea to seek protection and favourable conditions before beginning a new fishing season.

The festival coincides with the full moon of the Hindu month of Shravan and falls on the same day as Raksha Bandhan in 2026. Coastal neighbourhoods may organise traditional music, dancing, boat decorations and community celebrations.

Where Celebrated: Maharashtra, Goa and coastal areas of western India

Festival Highlights: Coconut offerings, decorated boats, fishing-community rituals, traditional dancing and coastal celebrations

14. Kajari Teej

Date: August 31, 2026

Kajari Teej, also known as Kajali Teej or Badi Teej, is distinct from Hariyali Teej and Hartalika Teej. It is celebrated mainly by women who observe traditional rituals and offer prayers to Goddess Parvati.

The festival is particularly prominent in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar. Folk songs, swings, traditional clothing and local fairs add colour to the celebrations. Bundi in Rajasthan is especially known for its Kajari Teej procession and cultural events.

Where Celebrated: Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh

Festival Highlights: Traditional processions, folk songs, swings, fasting, colourful clothing and prayers to Goddess Parvati

15. Shravan Somwar Celebrations

Dates: August 3, 10, 17 and 24, 2026

Shravan Somwar refers to the Mondays observed during the sacred Hindu month of Shravan. These days are dedicated to Lord Shiva, with devotees visiting temples, fasting and performing jalabhishek by offering water, milk and flowers to the Shiva Lingam.

Important Shiva temples such as Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain, Baidyanath in Deoghar and temples across Haridwar and Rishikesh attract large numbers of worshippers during this period. The four Shravan Mondays in August 2026 fall on August 3, 10, 17 and 24.

Where Celebrated: Across India, especially at major Shiva pilgrimage centres

Festival Highlights: Temple rituals, fasting, jalabhishek, devotional chanting, Kanwar pilgrimages and evening aarti

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More Detailed Guide about Popular Festivals:

Read Indian festivals month by month :

FAQs about Festivals in August:

1. What are the major festivals in August 2026 in India?

Major festivals in August 2026 in India include Raksha Bandhan, Janmashtami, and Onam.

2. When is Raksha Bandhan in August 2026?

Raksha Bandhan is on Friday, August 28.

3. What special day is celebrated on August 3 in India?

August 3 does not have any major festivals in India but may be significant for regional or local observances.

4. Is there any festival celebrated throughout August?

Yes, Onam is celebrated throughout August, primarily in Kerala.

5. What are some other festivals in August 2026 in India?

Other festival include Hariyali Teej on August 15.

6. What is Onam, and when is it celebrated in 2026?

Onam is a harvest festival celebrated mainly in Kerala, and it begins on August 16, 2026.

7. Are there any regional festivals in August 2026?

Yes, festivals like Varalakshmi Vratam and Narali Purnima are celebrated regionally.

8. What is the significance of Janmashtami in August & September?

Janmashtami, celebrated on Fri, 4 Sept, 2026, marks the birth of Lord Krishna.

9. How many festivals are there in August 2026 in India?

There are several festivals, including Raksha Bandhan, Janmashtami, and Onam, along with other regional celebrations.

10. Which festival marks the end of the monsoon season in Kerala in August?

Onam marks the end of the monsoon season in Kerala.

11. Is there any festival in August that is celebrated with kite flying?

While August doesn’t have major kite-flying festivals, kite flying can be a part of regional celebrations like Raksha Bandhan.

12. Which festival in August involves tying a protective thread?

Raksha Bandhan involves sisters tying a protective thread on their brothers’ wrists.

13. What festival is celebrated in August in Maharashtra involving coconuts?

Narali Purnima, celebrated in Maharashtra, involves offering coconuts to the sea.

14. Which Hindu festival in August is celebrated with fasting and prayers?

Janmashtami is celebrated with fasting and prayers.

15. What festival in August is known for its elaborate floral decorations and boat races?

Onam is known for its elaborate floral decorations (Pookalam) and boat races.

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