Sounds interesting, isn't it? Let's take a closer look at the traditions, sporting events, Onasadya, and special cultural celebrations that are part of Onam 2026.

Why is Onam celebrated?

When it comes to Onam, the first thing that flashes into our minds is the smiling face of Mahabali standing with his umbrella. Yes, this festival has a very strong connection with him.

It is all connected to a mythical story associated with the king Mahabali.

Mahabali was a beloved king, and during his reign, there was no poverty or crime in the kingdom. He ruled with righteousness, and his people lived in peace and prosperity. As his popularity grew, the devas [angels] became concerned about losing their influence and prayed to Lord Vishnu for help.

One day, while Mahabali was performing special rituals dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the lord appeared before him in the form of Vamana, a young and humble boy. Impressed by the boy's innocence, the king asked what he desired. Vamana replied, “I only seek as much land as I can cover in three steps”.

With his first two steps, he covered the entire universe and then asked where he could place the third. Realising that the boy was the lord himself, Mahabali remained true to his promise.

The king bowed before the lord and offered his own head for the third step.

Pleased by his devotion and commitment to his words, the lord blessed and sent him to the ‘Pathala’ [netherworld]. Further, the lord permitted him to visit his kingdom once every year.

The place where it took place is believed to be ‘Thrikkalkara ’, which has now become ‘Thrikkakara’. And the day when the king visits his kingdom every year is on Thiruvonam.

This year, Thiruvonam falls on 26th August, 2026.

Thrikkakara Onam & Its Famous Onasadhya

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons

Now you know why Thrikkakara Onam is special. The Thrikkakara Temple features Lord Vaman and Lord Shiva as well.

Ceremonial flag hoisting at the Thrikkakara Temple:

The festivities begin with flag hoisting at the temple on the day of Atham star in the Malayalam month of ‘Chingam’. In fact, the ten-day Onam celebrations start on this day everywhere.

Events: 

Throughout the 10-day celebration, you can witness a variety of cultural programs, traditional art performances, processions, and special rituals that showcase Kerala’s rich heritage.

Thrikkakara Onasadhya:

How can you miss experiencing the famous Thrikkakara Onasadhya? This traditional communal feast features an elaborate spread of vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf, with thousands of devotees gathering to enjoy the meal together.

Athachamayam - The start of Onam festivities

As mentioned above, Onam is a ten-day festival that starts on the ‘Atham’ star in the ‘Chingam’ month.

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons

Grand procession to the Thrikkakara Temple

This Athachamayam is a grand procession of elephants, drum beats, folk performances, and cultural art forms. This begins in Thrippunithura and concludes at the Thrikkakara Temple.

It is held on the day of Atham star and marks the start of the Onam celebrations across Kerala.

How did it start?

The tradition dates back to the times of the Kochi king, when he used to lead a grand procession from his palace in Thrippunithara to the Thrikkakara Temple.

Significance of ‘Pookalam’

Before exploring the games and events, let's take a look at the significance of the Pookalam.

You might have noticed people arranging flowers in beautiful patterns in front of their homes during Onam. Have you ever wondered why?

This colourful floral carpet is called a ‘Pookalam’. It is created to welcome King Mahabali. Made using a variety of locally grown flowers, the Pookalam is designed and decorated throughout all ten days of Onam.

Special sporting/gaming activities for Onam

So far, we've explored the history of Onam, the significance of the Thrikkakara Temple, and the traditions of Athachamayam and Pookalam. But the festivities are not limited to these cultural traditions alone.

Onam also brings with it a host of exciting sporting events and competitions that add to the festive spirit.

Let’s take a look at some of them.

1. Vallam Kali [Boat race]

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons

This is a thrilling game. Several men row massive, well-decorated, and lengthy ‘vallam’ [boats], singing ‘vanchi pattu’ [boat songs].

One boat can span around 100 to 120 feet and will have the capacity to hold 100 men or even more. The shape of the boat usually resembles a snake.

Where can you witness the race?

While the boat races are held across various parts of Kerala, some of the most renowned events include the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Champakulam Boat Race, Pulikkunnu Boat Race, and Aranmula Boat Race.

2. Vadam Vali [Tug of war]

This is another adventure game played during the Onam festival. Two groups of men gather in a sand court. Each group usually consists of around 8 to 10 men. The last one is usually a bulky and strong player. The team pulling the most wins.

If you'd like to witness the excitement of Vadam Vali, these are some of the venues where the competition is expected to take place.

Disclaimer: All these venues and tentative dates are from a few sources. Do confirm them before you actually visit.

3. Pulikali [Tiger dance]

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons

Pulikali is one of the most renowned performances showcased during Onam. In this, the ‘pulikalikkar’ [performers of pulikali] dance to the rhythm of ‘Vadayamelam’. Vadayamelam is the native orchestra of Kerala.

These pulikalikkar, or the performers of Pulikali, paint their bodies and use face masks to resemble a tiger or a cheetah.

In some places, the Pulikali is also referred to as ‘Kaduvakali’.

This is not a game, actually, but it is a high-energy performance, which is worth witnessing. You get the same enthusiasm as watching a sporting event.

Where to witness Pulikali?

While Pulikali performances take place in different parts of Kerala during Onam, the celebrations in Thrissur are considered the most iconic. This is where you can experience the art in its most authentic form.

For 2026, Pulikali is expected to be held at Swaraj Round, Thrissur, tentatively on 29 August 2026, between 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

Please note that the date and timings are subject to change. However, the event is traditionally held in Thrissur every year and remains one of the highlights of the Onam celebrations.

4. Other games

Other than the above three, many other small games and dances are performed locally. Some of the most popular ones include Uriyadi and Onathallu.

Savour the delicious Onasadhya

Here comes the important part of the festival, the ‘sadhya’ or feast. The Onasadhya is very specially served with several side dishes including sambar, rasam, kaalan, moru, aviyal, thoran, parippu [dhal], pappadam, ghee, pickles, and many more.

All this would be served on a lengthy and clean banana leaf.

By hearing the dishes, anyone would notice their mouth watering! Yes, don’t miss it!

Famous venues to enjoy Onasadhya

Other main events for Onam 2026

Other than all these, if you are looking for a musical tinge to your celebrations, here are a few concerts by the legendary singers.

Note: For any specific details like pricing, timings, etc., kindly visit the relevant sites.

A festival worth experiencing…

We hope this guide has given you a meaningful glimpse into Thiruvonam, Kerala’s most celebrated festival. From its rich history and cultural significance to the traditions of Thrikkakara, vibrant festivities, and special events, you've now explored the many facets that make Onam truly unique.

If you're planning to visit Kerala during the festival season, this guide can help you make the most of the experience. With its traditional celebrations, grand Onasadya, and vibrant festive atmosphere, Onam offers a memorable cultural journey for visitors and locals alike.

Still, if you are willing to explore more about Onam, you can consider visiting the Kerala Tourism website page for Onam.

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