Top 6 festivals you can't miss in and around Arpora, Goa

As they say in Bollywood, “Kabhi kabhi kuch moments zindagi mein bahut special hote hain,” and these festivals are exactly that—special moments you wouldn’t want to miss! Whether you’re drawn to the electrifying atmosphere of music festivals or the unique charm of Goan cultural events, Arpora has something for everyone!

Here are 6 must visit festivals to make your trip to Arpora fun:

1. Sunburn festival:

Sunburn festival is a world-renowned EDM festival that attracts music lovers from across the globe. The festival features top EDM artists, DJs, and live performances, making it a significant event in the global music calendar. If you're an electronic music enthusiast, you shouldn’t miss adding Sunburn festivals on your Arpora itinerary list.

• When: December
• Where: Vagator beach
• Drive time from The Hosteller Arpora: Approximately 13 mins

Sunburn festival Goa

2. Christmas festival at St Anne’s church:

If you’re travelling to Arpora, you should not miss the Christmas festival here! Attend midnight mass at St. Anne’s church and participate in spiritual gatherings while praying and hymning with the locals. If you are a shopaholic, then shop decorative items, handmade crafts, and unique gifts from Arpora’s Saturday night market. If you are craving some tummy-fed food, try local cuisines such as bebinca (a traditional coconut dessert), ros omelette, and sannas (sweet bread), as well as neureos (sweet fried dumplings).

• When: December
• Where: Arpora
• Drive time from The Hosteller Arpora: Approximately 13 mins

St. Anne’s church, Goa

3. New year’s eve parties:

New year’s eve in Arpora offers a unique blend of festive energy and Goan charm, making it an ideal destination for party-goers looking to ring in the new year. The village itself maintains a laid-back vibe, but the nearby areas, such as Baga and Calangute, come alive with vibrant New Year’s Eve parties. Expect a mix of live music, fireworks, and beachside celebrations at several bars, clubs, and resorts in the vicinity.

• When: December
• Where: Baga and Calangute beach
• Drive time from The Hosteller Arpora: Approximately 10 mins

Baga-Calangute beach

4. Sao Joao festival:

The Sao Joao festival in Arpora, celebrated during monsoon, is one of Goa’s most lively and colourful traditions. The festival honours St. John the Baptist with the unique tradition of jumping into wells and rivers, symbolizing purity and community spirit. Streets come alive with processions, traditional music, and dancing, as locals in traditional attire celebrate with family and friends. If you want to experience Goan culture and the joyous spirit of the countryside, then visiting Sao Joao is a must!

• When: June
• Where: Anjuna
• Drive time from The Hosteller Arpora: Approximately 6 mins

Sao Joao festival, Goa

5. Bonderam festival:

The Bonderam festival is a lively and unique celebration held annually on Divar Island, just a short distance from Arpora. The vibrant festival signifies the age-old quarrels over land boundaries between local villages. The colourful and fun-filled mock battles include participants dressed in traditional costumes throwing flags and bamboos at one another in a playful re-enactment of history. With folk music, dancing, and street parades, Bonderam offers an unforgettable taste of Goa’s rich cultural heritage and festive spirit, making it a must visit event for you.

• When: August
• Where: Divar Island
• Drive time from The Hosteller Arpora: Approximately 1 hr

Children dancing during Bonderam festival

6. Goa heritage festival:

The Goa heritage festival celebrates Goa's rich history, culture, and traditions. Just a short distance from Arpora, this festival showcases Goan art, architecture, music, and local cuisine through events at heritage sites, museums, and cultural venues across the state. You can explore traditional Goan homes, watch folk performances, and indulge in authentic Goan dishes, all while gaining insight into the region's colonial past and local customs. The Goa heritage festival offers a captivating experience for those eager to immerse themselves in Goa's cultural legacy.

• When: May
• Where: Saligao
• Drive time from The Hosteller Arpora: Approximately 15 mins

Walk through to Goan street

Conclusion

Arpora is a fantastic destination for those looking to experience Goa’s rich festivals. Whether it’s the buzzing electrifying Sunburn Festival, or the traditional Goan celebrations, Arpora provides a perfect blend of culture, festivity, and relaxation, making it a top choice for festival-goers. For budget-conscious travelers seeking accommodation, you can consider booking your stay at The Hosteller Arpora.

Book your stay now at The Hosteller Arpora!

The Hosteller Goa, Arpora