Goa is a great holiday destination any time of the year, but more so in December. Sundowners, partying on the beach, and riding a bike through the coconut trees avenue on Parra, are a given. But December in Goa also means festivals and celebrations that are unique to this place and this time of year.
And we don't just mean the Serendipity Arts Festival (December 15-23, 2023) and Sunburn (December 28-31). There are festivals, trails and walks galore, for art, culture and heritage lovers, food aficionados and even those seeking adventure. Here is a list of some unusual and fun experiences to try in Goa:
Culture and Heritage
1. Festa do Povo
The Latin Quarters in Panjim is on every tourist’s list, but it’s not just about the brightly coloured buildings and tiny lanes which make for a good selfie. Festa do Povo, a festival of the people, by the people is being organised to experience Fontainhas as never before.
Expect to enjoy Goa’s local music- Fados and Mandos, one-act plays, live bands and even choir singing by Ektaal Children’s Choir. Apart from music, feast your eyes on the beautiful paintings on display by local artists. As you immerse yourself in this two-day cultural extravaganza, expect also to savour Goan cuisine by the locals of the area.
Where: Fontainhas, Panjim
When: December 10, 6 pm onwards
Also read: 60 things to do in Goa
2. Heritage Walk at Chorão Island
Visit the island of Chorão, tracing the seminary that once flourished there and the churches and chapels that now remain. So much to see and appreciate in this wonderful island, with unique iconography and works of art.
When: December 16, 9 am
Fees: Rs 1,000 per adult & Rs 500 per student
Duration: Approx 3 hrs (light refreshments are served)
To book, WhatsApp +91 83088 05399
3. Christmas Vibe in Velha Goa
Explore the roots of Goan traditions, from the birthplace of the renowned Bebinca sweet to the remnants of historic churches. Delight in the charm of an extraordinary museum and visit a one-of-a-kind chapel. Feel the magic on the Holy Hill in Goa's Old Capital, where Christmas joy comes alive. Engage with the local community at a Christmas pop-up market, and let the melodic tunes of local Goan choirs serenade you with delightful carols.
When: December 18, 2023
Cost: Rs 1,299, plus taxes
4. Kollo de Natal Christmas Special
Experience the magic of Christmas in Goa with the Kollo de Natal celebrations. This walking trail is a journey through Goa's cultural tapestry, starting with a visit to the awe-inspiring Gothic Mãe De Deus Church, followed by a scenic exploration of the Baandh, Rakhandar's Stone, and the picturesque lanes of Saligao. Marvel at the Indo-Portuguese architectural gems that line the village, and top it off by indulging in the vibrant Christmas pop-up market.
When: December 19 and 26, 2023
Cost: Rs 1,299, plus taxes
Also read: 13 Goan vegetarian dishes you should know about
5. Aguad Interactive Museum
There can be no better way to acquaint yourself with the cultural heritage of Goa than a visit to this museum inside a 400-year-old heritage complex-turned-cultural destination.
The Aguad Interactive Museum intricately weaves Goa’s legacy using interactive and cutting-edge technology. It artfully communicates the essence of Goa - its people, culture, history, and the pursuit of freedom. The museum exhibits are housed across three prison cells. Each cell offers an interactive experience, providing a captivating journey through various aspects of Goa’s heritage and history.
Where: Aguad Port & Jail, at the foothills of Sinquerim Hill in Candolim.
Timings: 8 am – 10 pm
Entry fee: Local visitors: INR 100; Indian tourists: INR 200; Foreign nationals: INR 400.
Parking charges: INR 100
Arts & Crafts
6. Sparkling Stars & Heavenly Angels: A Christmas workshop
Organized by the Museum of Christian Art, in collaboration with Hospedaria Abrigo De Botelho, this workshop is meant for children aged 6 and above. Apart from making paper stars and Christmas angels at a Christmas workshop, participants will learn about the significance of these popular Christmas icons through storytelling and discover the joy of handmade decorations and create something special for the holidays.
When: December 10
Time: 3.30-5.30 pm
Where: Hospedaria Abrigo De Botelho, Fontainhas, Panjim
Fee: INR 250 (all materials included)
To register, message on +91 83088 05399 (WhatsApp)
Also read: Not just beaches by the bay, how to make the most of Goa's waterways
7. Serendipity Art Festival
The eighth edition of this multidisciplinary arts festival will feature workshops, talks, theatre, music, dance, performance art, visual art, and culinary arts. If you're in Goa from December 15-23, don't miss "Don Quixote: A Bharatanatyam-Theatre Production" curated by Geeta Chandran (December 22, 7 pm) and "Goa’s Coconut Vinegar: A Comparative Tasting Of A Forgotten Culinary Gem" (December 17, 2 pm).
When: December 15-23, 2023
Where: Old GMC Complex and ESG Complex, Panjim,
Fee: Some events are free, others are ticketed nominally at Rs 99 a head. Check the program at https://www.serendipityartsfestival.com/program
To register, visit https://www.serendipityartsfestival.com/register
Food
8. Secret Food and Tavern Trail
Step into the Christmas spirit in Goa with this Secret Food and Tavern Trail with a festive twist. The trail begins at the majestic Mary Immaculate Church, a symbol of Goa's cultural heritage. Munch on local Goan Christmas sweets at one of the oldest bakeries on the trail. Indulge in the town's best Xacuti, savour a special cocktail crafted with local alcohol, and enjoy a light meal at a cherished local spot. Top it off with a scoop of ice cream at everyone's favourite spot, concluding with an alcoholic drink while immersing yourself in exciting stories at every location.
When: December 21 & 28
Time: 4 pm onwards for 3 hours
Cost: Rs 1,950 plus taxes
Also read: Inside Goa's capital, through Panjim's women-run businesses
Adventure
9. Explore the Island of Divar on a Bike
If adventure is what you’re seeking, BLive offers a trail away from the chaos of touristy Goa. Experience time slowing down on the quaint river island of Divar, a few miles from Panjim.
One can ride through fields, mangroves, churches, temple sites and beautiful houses. The trail doesn't end here. Hop on to a ferry from Divar and visit the neighbouring island of Vanxim. Explore the backwaters and row your boat between the mangroves, spot migratory birds and sea otters, if you are lucky, backwater crocodiles too. Learn the art of fishing from the locals and get hosted for a mouth-watering home cooked meal.
Cost and duration: 4 hours 30 minutes Island hopping tour - Rs 3,999
Starting point: Old Goa Residency
Music
10. Sunburn Goa
With Alesso, Timmy Trumpet, and Charlotte De Witte headlining at Sunburn Goa 2023, there's plenty of reason to end the year in Goa.
Where: Vagator
Tickets: Start at Rs 3,000
Varun Hegde, co-founder, Soul Travelling, Goa explains, "Christmas brings unique celebrations across beautiful villages of Goa - across religions. We wanted to make sure the people coming to Goa are actually able to live these experiences, feel the joy and understand what makes Goa a place that is loved by all. These have been curated in collaboration with the community, which drives the celebrations.”
Also read: 20 unexplored destinations to visit in Goa and Maharashtra
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