Ecstatic, tumultuous, paradisaical. This is what this May will be for you, unlike the regular frenzy that you are a part of to evade the heat once the exams get over. While the temperatures keep a lot of festivities off the calendar this month, there are sure a good few, to keep you busy. The best of music, dance and cultures will be on offer, bringing out glimpses of this country’s diversity.
Festivals in May: India
1. Fireflies Festival
The Fireflies Festival is an annual event celebrated in Maharashtra, India, showcasing the mesmerizing natural phenomenon of fireflies illuminating the night forests. This spectacle occurs just before the onset of the monsoon season, when fireflies engage in their mating rituals, emitting bioluminescent light to attract partners.
When: Mid-May to Late June
Where: Karjat, Bhandardara, Rajmachi, Kothaligad (Peth), Prabalmachi, Igatpuri (AquaNest), Samrad (Sandhan Valley), and undisclosed secret locations.
2. International Flower Festival
This festival brings together a range of fun-filled activities, the beauty of flowers and some decent knowledge about plantations. Many species of orchids, gladioli, cacti, roses, trees, ferns, alpine plants, creepers, climbers, are displayed during the show. A range of regional delicacies for your taste buds are also there. For the ones who love adventure, there is river rafting. Another interesting feature of the Flower festival in Sikkim is the Yak Safari. Apart from this, lectures and seminars about indigenous plants are conducted.
When: TBA
Where: Governor’s residence, Gangtok
3. Buddha Poornima
Being an important landmark of the Indian Buddhist Circuit, Sarnath hosts an elaborate fair and is home to a public procession of Buddhist relics. A huge number of Buddhists are seen coming to Sarnath for the occasion. Apart from Sarnath, almost every other Buddhist capital celebrates Buddh Poornima fervently. Find all that falls on the Buddhist trail here.
When: 12 May 2025
Where: Sarnath
4. Ooty Summer Festival
Held in the fresh air of the Nilgiris, this festival is just like any other summer festival, yet different from it. No other festival promises such scenic beauty and relaxation as this festival does. A flower show to showcase the beautiful floral arrangements, vegetable carvings, flower rangoli etc. is there. Apart from this, rose show, fruit show, dog show, spice show, vegetable show, and boat race and boat pageantry are also part of the celebrations. Since the dates for the festival keep on changing, do confirm them if you plan to go for it.
When: 19 – 23 May 2025
Where: Botanical Gardens, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
5. Moatsu Festival
Moatsu festival is one of the most eagerly awaited festivals in Nagaland's little yet beautiful state. Making the entire state lively with its vibrant festivities, the Moatsu Mong festival is celebrated by the Ao tribe of the state. To seek the blessings of God, is the main idea behind the festival. Rice beer is brewed in large quantities. Pigs, fowl, and cows are fed to make them fat for the festive feasting. Eulogies are sung to commemorate the traditional heroes. And then, one learned person forecasts the good and bad days the village is going to encounter. The festival is a lot of fun, and although it sounds like a festival which only locals enjoy, it isn’t one. People from the entire country come and witness Nagaland’s culture at its best.
When: 1 - 3 May, 2025
Where: Mokokchung district villages (Chuchuyimlang village), Nagaland
6. Igitun Chalne
Igitun Chalne, literally translated from Konkani, means walking through fire. It is celebrated every year in May, in the temple of Sirigao, which is around 30 kms away from the capital, Panjim. Both the visitors and locals, crowd around the temple to watch the rituals. This is followed by walks on the fire, undertaken by a few courageous people only, while other people encourage them. These are devotees of goddess Lairaya, who believe in going through the trial by fire and submitting their feet and faith. One hell of a festival, for sure.
When: TBA, 2025
Where: Sirigao, Goa
7. Thrissur Pooram
This is one of the greatest festivals in April held in Kerala. One of the largest celebrations hosted by Thrissur, this one is almost essential if you are anywhere in the state during that time. The celebrations, with elaborate lights, hues and decorations also tend to be amazing for all the photography lovers.
When: 7 May, 2025
Where: Thrissur, Kerala.
Website: www.thrissurpooramfestival.com
8. Mount Abu Summer Festival
Held in the scenic hill station of Mount Abu, this festival celebrates the onset of summer with cultural programs, folk dances, and music. The festival starts with a ceremonial procession and includes activities like boat races on Nakki Lake, firework displays, and live performances of Rajasthan’s traditional art forms.
When: 10-12 May, 2025
Where: Udaipur, Rajasthan
Festivals in May: Worldwide
9. Bun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival)
This traditional festival involves launching homemade rockets to encourage rainfall for the upcoming rice planting season. The event features elaborate rocket processions, traditional music, dance performances, and vibrant parades. It's a unique blend of cultural rituals and festive merriment.
When: May 9–11, 2025
Where: Yasothon Province, Thailand
10. Bali Arts Festival
This month-long festival showcases Balinese culture through traditional dance performances, music, art exhibitions, and culinary fairs. It's an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich artistic heritage of Bali.
When: May 15 – June 13, 2025
Where: Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
11. Tulip Season (Keukenhof Gardens)
Keukenhof Gardens, often called the "Garden of Europe," showcases millions of tulips in full bloom during spring. May is the tail end of the season, and visitors can witness vibrant tulip fields alongside daffodils, hyacinths, and other spring flowers. Tickets to the garden cost approximately €19 for adults. Guided tours from Amsterdam are also available.
When: Late March to Mid-May
Where: Keukenhof, Netherlands
Plan early, stay informed about event timings, and embrace the festive spirit as you explore the wonders of festivals in May across India and nearby destinations!
You may also read about the Best Places to Visit in May in India.