Christmas: Let joy and wonder sparkle in every heart!

Kerala

Goa

Meghalaya

Maharashtra

West Bengal

Himachal Pradesh

Sikkim

A celebration of joy and unity

Travel to the heart of India during the enchanting Christmas season! Witness a captivating blend of spirituality and vibrant celebrations as the country embraces the birth of Jesus Christ. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Christmas magic, experience heartfelt prayers offered in churches adorned with festive decorations, savour delicious feasts bursting with traditional flavours, and witness the heartwarming exchange of gifts and blessings.

Across the country, Christmas brings people together in a celebration of unity and happiness. Come and discover the unique charm of an Indian Christmas – a celebration filled with wonder and the warmth of Indian hospitality. It's a festive experience you'll treasure forever.

Take part in the Midnight Mass and more

One of the most cherished Christmas traditions in India is the midnight mass held in churches on Christmas Eve, just a few hours before the clock strikes twelve. Christians from all walks of life gather to participate in this solemn service, invoking the divine blessings of the season. You can attend the Midnight Mass at historic churches, like the iconic St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral in Goa or the charming St. Mary's Basilica in Bengaluru - all offering a deeply moving experience you will never forget. Marvel at the churches that are beautifully adorned with lights, stars, and sometimes even nativity scenes with dolls representing the manger where Jesus Christ is believed to have been born.

in.gov.incredibleindia.core.models.impl.ImageUtilModelImpl@637372f9

Essential information

Venue

Celebrated across India

Dates

Wed, 25 December 2024

Ticket

Witness mesmerising decorations

As the soulful hymns, candlelit processions, and heartfelt prayers create an atmosphere of spiritual reflection, the streets, markets and homes are a sight to behold. Witness the nation come alive with intricate decorations of twinkling lights, ornate stars, and beautifully adorned Christmas trees gracing every corner! The stunning display of colours and lights is a testament to the creative spirit of the Indian people.

in.gov.incredibleindia.core.models.impl.ImageUtilModelImpl@60f5e468

Experience unique Christmas celebrations in India

Jingle all the way to India for a Christmas unlike any other! Here, the celebration transcends religion, bringing people together in a vibrant fusion of traditions. Alongside India's vibrant Christian community, you'll find people of all faiths embracing the festive spirit. Be prepared for a delightful twist as Christmas feasts in India are a delicious blend of local flavours and classic Christmas treats. Imagine indulging in melt-in-your-mouth Indian curries alongside a slice of traditional Christmas plum cake.

Immersing yourself in India's Christmas celebrations is a magical experience. You can travel to different regions of India to witness the diverse Christmas celebrations. From Goa's Portuguese influence to Kolkata's cultural extravaganza, from the snowy landscape of Shimla to the winter wonderland of Shillong, each place offers a unique perspective on the festival. Visit churches and enjoy local Christmas bazaars to truly enjoy the celebration.

The warm Indian climate also adds a unique touch. Dazzling displays of tropical flowers and creative decorations make Christmas a celebration unlike any other.

in.gov.incredibleindia.core.models.impl.ImageUtilModelImpl@4e2d33fe

A feast like no other

However, the celebration is incomplete without indulging in local delicacies! Try scrumptious traditional dishes and delicious desserts like plum cakes, rose cookies, bebinca and kidyo. Don't forget to savour the special Christmas cakes that come in various delectable versions. Most churches also host a Christmas feast after the Church service, inviting everyone to enjoy the delicious array of cuisines - from tantalising roast chicken to savoury and spicy regional curries and chutneys!

The diverse traditions and celebrations across India make Christmas here truly special. As you embrace the festive spirit and explore different regions, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich mosaic of culture that makes Christmas in India uniquely enchanting. Come, be part of this magical season, where faith meets festivity, and the spirit of Christmas resonates across the diverse landscapes of India.

Christmas

across India

Christmas

across India

Experience a blessed Christmas in 'God's Own Country,' Kerala! Take part in the solemn services that take place in churches, and exchange greetings, gifts and cakes with families and friends. You must go to witness the decorations that adorn Fort Kochi beautifully during the Cochin Festival on Christmas - the sight will leave you mesmerised!

Explore more

festivals

Armored vehicles driving down the Raj Path in preparation for Republic Day Parade, New Delhi, India

26 Jan

Republic Day: A spectacular showcase of India's glory

A grand celebration marking the adoption of the Indian Constitution.

lord shiva statue parmarth Niketan Haridwar uttarakhand india

08 Mar

Maha Shivratri: Celebrate the great night of Lord Shiva

Become part of a grand annual spectacle as India pays homage to the revered Lord Shiva.

Crowd throwing bright coloured powder paint in the air, Holi Festival Dahan

24-25 Mar

Holi: Celebrate the festival of colours

Let the burst of colours bring renewal and positivity into your life.

Famous Jama Masjid in New Delhi, India on the auspicious day of Eid.

09-10 Apr

Eid ul-Fitr: A celebration of community and renewal

Indulge in festive cheer and communal celebrations as Ramadan culminates in joyous gatherings!

Jama Masjid. Thousands of devotees on Saturday gathered at Delhi's Jama Masjid to offer namaz on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. 22th June'23 Delhi. India

16-17 Jun

Eid-ul-Adha: Sharing the blessings of Allah

A sacred celebration of sacrifice, gratitude, and abundant feasts, where the spirit of sharing takes centre stage.

RED FORT DELHI INDIA WITH INDIA FLAG FLYING HIGH

15 Aug

Independence Day: Celebrating India's freedom

A nationwide celebration of freedom, patriotism, and unity.

15-16 Sep

Eid-e-Milad: Celebrating the birth of Prophet Muhammed

A joyous festival commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammed, the founder of Islam.

02 Oct

Gandhi Jayanti: A day to connect with the soul of India

Gandhi Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Idol statue of Goddess Maa Durga, Happy Navratri and Dussehra

03-12 Oct

Navratri: Nine nights of divine celebration

A fascinating spiritual kaleidoscope celebrating the divine goddess and the victory of good over evil.

Durga Idol - Durga puja Navrata, West Bengal, India

09-12 Oct

Durga Puja: An incomparable celebration of devotion and art

A five-day grand celebration marking the homecoming of Goddess Durga.

12 Oct

Dussehra: Celebrating the victory of good over evil

Dussehra celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana.

17 Oct

Valmiki Jayanti: A celebration of ancient wisdom

Valmiki Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki, author of the ancient epic Ramayana.

20 Oct

Karva Chauth: A celebration of love and matrimony

A festival in which married women pray for the well-being of their husband.

Upcoming: 29 Oct-03 Nov

Diwali: A festival of lights and joy

Celebrating Lord Rama's triumphant return after vanquishing Ravana.

Upcoming: 03 Nov

Bhai Dooj: A timeless tradition celebrating sibling love

A unique festival that celebrates the timeless bond between brothers and sisters.

Harmandir Sahib is the Central Devotional Site for Sikhs from around the world, built of gold-plated white marble.

Upcoming: 15 Nov

Guru Nanak Jayanti: A Divine Celebration of Sikhism

A festival that pays homage to Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.

View all

Christmas: Let joy and wonder sparkle in every heart!