As per Central Government Holidays 2024, Onam is an optional holiday. Onam is also known as Thiruvonam. This festival falls on Sunday, September 15, 2024. This holiday was announced as Restricted holiday for all central government employees. On this particular day, government employees may opt for a holiday based on personal, cultural or religious reasons.
Onam 2024 Date and Thiruvonam Nakshathra Time
| Onam 2024 | |
| Onam 2024 Date | September 15, 2024 (Sunday) |
| Thiruvonam Nakshathram Begins | 08:32 PM on September 14, 2024 |
| Thiruvonam Nakshathram Ends | 06:49 PM on September 15, 2024 |
Onam Vacation 2024 Kerala
| Name of Holiday | Date & Day |
| First Onam | 14-9-2024 Saturday |
| Thiruvonam | 15-9-2024 Sunday |
| Third Onam / Milad-i-Sherif | 16-9-2024 Monday |
| Fourth Onam | 17-9-2024 Tuesday |
Onam is the most significant festival in Kerala, celebrated by people of all religions and communities. In 2024, Onam is expected to be celebrated in the month of September. The festival marks the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali and is a celebration of harvest and abundance. It’s a perfect time for a vacation in Kerala, filled with vibrant traditions, delectable cuisine, and spectacular festivities.
Best Time to Visit for Onam
Dates: Onam will be celebrated from Sep 6 to Sep 15, 2024, with the main festivities occurring on Thiruvonam, which falls on September 15.
Weather: September is part of the monsoon season in Kerala, so expect lush greenery and occasional rain. The weather is usually pleasant, but it’s advisable to carry an umbrella.
Activities During Onam Festival
Pookalam (Floral Rangoli): Witness communities coming together to create intricate flower carpets in front of homes.
Onam Sadya: Enjoy the traditional feast served on a banana leaf, featuring over 20 dishes, including rice, curries, pickles, and desserts like Payasam.
Vallam Kali (Boat Race): Experience the excitement of traditional boat races, with teams competing in beautifully decorated chundans (traditional long boats).
Cultural Programs: Attend traditional dance performances such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as music, and other local art forms.
Games and Competitions: Join in the various games and activities organized during the festival, such as tug-of-war and other traditional sports.
Shopping for Onam: Explore local markets for traditional Kerala textiles, brassware, and handcrafted items.
Celebrating Onam in Kerala in 2024 offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in rich cultural traditions, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely houseboat ride or partaking in vibrant local celebrations, your Onam vacation in Kerala is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
History of Onam Festival
Onam is a significant annual harvest festival celebrated in the state of Kerala, India. It is a ten-day festival that marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and includes various traditions and rituals that hold deep cultural and religious significance for the people of Kerala.
The history of Onam dates back to ancient times and is rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, King Mahabali, a beloved ruler, was pushed to the netherworld by Lord Vishnu. However, he was granted permission to visit his kingdom once a year during the Onam festival. This visit symbolizes the spirit of equality, prosperity, and happiness that the king brought to his people during his reign.
During Onam, elaborate feasts known as Onam Sadhya are prepared, featuring a variety of traditional dishes served on a banana leaf. The festival also includes folk dances like Thiruvathirakali, boat races, intricate flower carpets called Pookalam, and other cultural performances. Onam is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.