Holi 2024: Planning your Holi long weekend? Dive into 11 Unique Holi Celebrations

India's vibrant festival of colors, Holi, is just around the corner! As the famous saying goes:

Bura na mano, Holi hai!!!

Let us embrace and capture the joyful spirit of forgiveness and unity that lies at the heart of the festive celebration this Holi 2024.

But did you know that Holi isn't celebrated the same way across India? Every region boasts distinct traditions and customs, contributing to a rich tapestry of diversity and fascination across the country. So, if you're looking to make your Holi long weekend unforgettable, consider venturing beyond the traditional colors and exploring these unique celebrations.

Holi festivals in India

1. Lathmar Holi - Uttar Pradesh
2. Royal Holi - Rajasthan
3. Hola Mohalla - Punjab
4. Dol Jatra - West Bengal
5. Yaosang - Manipur
6. Shigmo - Goa
7. Phaguwa - Bihar
8. Dola - Odisha
9. Ukuli/Manjal Kuli - Kerala
10. Rang Panchami - Maharashtra
11. Kahila Holi - Uttarakhand

1. Lathmar Holi, Uttar Pradesh: A Playful Battle with Lathis

In Barsana, Uttar Pradesh, witness the cheerful "Lathmar Holi," where women playfully chase men with lathis. It symbolizes the tale from Hindu mythology, where Lord Krishna tried to tease Radha and play Holi, which ended up with ladies chasing him away with sticks. Men shield themselves with shields and create an atmosphere full of laughter and joy.

2. Hola Mohalla, Punjab: Celebrating the Spirit of Valor

Travel to Punjab and experience "Hola Mohalla," a celebration held a day after Holi that honors the bravery of Sikh warriors. Witness a display of traditional martial arts, followed by lively music and dance performances.

3. Royal Holi, Rajasthan: Witness the grandeur of Mewar

Udaipur, Rajasthan, transforms into a royal spectacle during Holi. The Mewar royal family leads a grand procession with decorated horses and a traditional band, culminating in the lighting of the Holika bonfire.

4. Dol Jatra, West Bengal: Immerse Yourself in Bengali Culture

Head to Shantiniketan in West Bengal to experience the true spirit of Bengali Holi. Immerse yourself in traditional music, dance performances, and recitals of Rabindranath Tagore's poetry. The following day, witness the grand procession honoring Lord Krishna during the celebration of "Dol Jatra.”

5. Yaosang, Manipur: A Week-Long Extravaganza of Colors and Dance

Manipur offers a six-day extravaganza called "Yaosang." This Holi weekend, witness the vibrant blend of Manipuri and Hindu traditions, where people celebrate with colors, and participate in the "Thabal Chongba," a captivating traditional Manipuri folk dance.

6. Shigmo, Goa: Celebrate Spring with Street Dances and Parades

Goa's "Shigmo" is a vibrant celebration of spring. Witness lively street dances and traditional folk songs performed by local farmers. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and participate in the colorful parades held across the state.

7. Ukuli/Manjal Kuli, Kerala: Celebrate with the Colors of Nature

Kerala's unique celebration of Holi festival, "Manjal Kuli" or "Ukuli," uses natural colors like turmeric instead of the usual dry colors. Experience the authentic festivities observed by the Kudumbi and Konkani communities of Kerala.

8. Phaguwa, Bihar: Experience the Traditional Spirit of Holi

Bihar celebrates Holi as "Phaguwa," following the tradition of Holika Dahan and playing with colors throughout the day. Immerse yourself in the traditional music and folk songs that fill the air.

9. Dola, Odisha: Witness the Procession of Lord Jagannath

Similar to West Bengal, Odisha celebrates Holi with colors and processions. Yet, the distinguishing feature lies in the grandeur of the Lord Jagannath procession also referred to as Dolagobinda. Experience the deep devotion and dynamic visuals as the deity gracefully parades through the lively streets.

10. Rang Panchami, Maharashtra: A Week-Long Celebration of Colors

Maharashtra celebrates Holi as "Rang Panchami" or "Shimga." The festivities begin with Holika Dahan, followed by a week of playing with wet and dry colors, singing, dancing, and feasting on traditional delicacies.

11. Kahila Holi, Uttarakhand: A community celebration

Experience the community spirit of Holi in Uttarakhand, where people gather in groups called Tolis, singing, dancing, and smearing colors on each other's faces. Witness the vibrant traditional attire worn by locals and be a part of their joyful Holi celebrations. 

Meant to be noticed:
Enchantment of Sangla Valley's Faguli Festival

In the pristine Kinnaur Valley, Holi unfolds its vibrant hues in a unique and spirited celebration, entwined with the Faguli festival in Sangla Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh. Amidst the breathtaking landscapes, Holi in the Sangla Valley is a symphony of music, the distribution of locally brewed wine, and a captivating reenactment of scenes from the epic Ramayana.

Beyond the celebrations:

No matter which unique celebration you choose for the upcoming long weekend of Holi, remember to embrace the spirit of the festival - spreading joy, fostering community spirit, and celebrating the beauty of spring.

A Few Things to Remember: 

• Before embarking on your adventure this Holi understand the customs and rituals of the celebration in your chosen destination. 
• Book your Holi getaway with India's leading booking platforms like Bag2Bag in advance, especially if you're planning to travel to any of these popular destinations.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture by respecting age-old traditions.
• Most importantly, come ready to embrace the splendid colors, vibrant energy, and spirit of this Holi long weekend!

Happy Holi 2024!