About Onam (Thiruvonam)
Onam is the harvest festival of Kerala and the most important celebration for Malayalis worldwide. Rooted in legend, it marks the annual homecoming of the benevolent demon king Mahabali, whose reign is remembered as a golden age of equality and prosperity. Far beyond a religious observance, Onam is a cultural celebration of community, abundance and Kerala's identity, embraced by people of all faiths across the state.
Festivities span ten days, building toward the main day. Homes are decorated with pookalam, intricate carpets of fresh flowers arranged in concentric patterns. Families gather for the Onam Sadhya, an elaborate vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf with dozens of dishes. The season features vibrant traditions including snake-boat races, Pulikali tiger dances, Kathakali performances, swings and folk songs that fill villages and towns with colour and music.
Onam follows the Malayalam calendar, falling in the month of Chingam, which usually corresponds to late August or September. Because it is set by a lunisolar calendar, the Gregorian date shifts each year, with the main day of Thiruvonam as the high point. The live countdown above tracks the next Onam date for you. You can also add this countdown to your own page to share the anticipation with family and friends.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Wednesday, August 26, 2026next |
| 2027 | Saturday, September 11, 2027 |
| 2028 | Friday, September 1, 2028 |
| 2029 | Wednesday, August 22, 2029 |
FAQ
When is Onam this year and what date does it fall on?
Onam is celebrated on Thiruvonam in the Malayalam month of Chingam, usually in late August or September. As it follows a lunisolar calendar, the Gregorian date changes each year, so check the live countdown above for the next exact date.
Why is Onam celebrated?
Onam commemorates the annual homecoming of the legendary king Mahabali, whose reign symbolised prosperity, justice and equality. It is also a harvest festival giving thanks for a bountiful season.
How is Onam celebrated?
People create flower carpets called pookalam, enjoy the grand Onam Sadhya feast on banana leaves, and take part in snake-boat races, Pulikali tiger dances and traditional games. The ten-day festival blends food, art and community.
What is the Onam Sadhya?
The Onam Sadhya is a traditional vegetarian banquet served on a banana leaf, featuring many dishes such as rice, sambar, avial, thoran, pickles and the dessert payasam. It is a central highlight of the celebration.