In India, the arrival of spring is celebrated with the Holi Festival, also known as the Festival of Colors! This festival always includes activities for all ages: fireworks bursting with vibrant colors, music, dancing in the rain, and all of it enjoyed alongside delicious treats typical of the celebration.
What is the meaning of this festival?
Colors are the main part of Holi celebrations. People cover themselves by throwing colored powders at each other—red, green, blue… every color imaginable! They believe that each color has its own meaning, for example:
Red – Love and Connection l Green – Growth and Vitality l Blue – Calm and Serenity l Yellow – Devotion
The ‘Gulaal’, or pink, is the ultimate color of this festival; this vibrant shade is a must-have in every Holi celebration. For those who are shy and refuse to throw colors at others, there’s no escape—you must cover your face with Gulaal! No one is safe during Holi; everyone must have a bit of color on their skin!
Talking about India means talking about colors, but during Holi, things take a whole new turn—every street, every house fills with people eager to cover themselves and each other in bright hues. Without a doubt, this celebration is even more special when shared at a party with family and friends. Everyone gets to paint!
Holi always begins the day before with the “holicaka” fire, a bonfire symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This festival is celebrated throughout northern India in places like Delhi, Varanasi, Mathura-Vrindavan, and Jaipur.
Bollywood Holi Party in Delhi
Delhi bursts into life during Holi with grand celebrations featuring Bollywood music, energetic dance performances, and lively crowds covered in color. The city is known for hosting some of the most exciting Holi events, from large open-air parties to exclusive gatherings with live entertainment and traditional Indian delicacies. It’s a time when the streets, parks, and venues transform into a spectacle of joy and festivity.
Traditional Holi Celebration in Varanasi
Varanasi, one of India’s most spiritual cities, celebrates Holi in a deeply traditional way. The festival comes to life along the Ghats and the streets near the sacred Ganges River, where religious ceremonies take place throughout the year. In Varanasi, no one is a stranger—walk through its streets, and before you know it, you’ll be caught up in the joy of the festival, with vibrant colors covering the ground and the air.
Varanasi is also known for its traditional Bhang-infused milk, a special drink made with local herbs that has been part of Holi customs for centuries. The city offers a unique blend of spiritual rituals and playful festivities, making Holi in Varanasi a truly unforgettable experience.
The Spirit of Holi in Mathura – Vrindavan
Mathura – Vrindavan is considered the most religious city in northern India, where Holi is deeply connected to spiritual traditions. According to Hindu legends, Lord Krishna played Holi with his beloved Radha, coloring her face with vibrant hues. Today, thousands of devotees gather in Mathura – Vrindavan to take part in this grand celebration.
The festivities begin with a special prayer to Lord Krishna, followed by the joyful throwing of colors among the crowd. The people of Mathura and Vrindavan celebrate Holi for more than a week, with each major Krishna temple hosting its own Holi celebrations on different days.
In temple rituals, red is the most significant color, symbolizing love and sanctity in Hindu mythology. Holi in Mathura – Vrindavan is a powerful blend of devotion, tradition, and celebration, making it one of the most spiritually enriching ways to experience the festival.
Holi in Jaipur, the Pink City
Holi brings thousands of people into the streets for a dazzling parade of color and joy. Jaipur is a unique place to experience this festival—known as India’s “Pink City”, it is famous for its historic buildings made from pink-colored stone, including impressive forts and palaces. As the color capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur comes alive during Holi, with its markets, streets, and palaces fully immersed in the festive spirit.
The locals are warm and welcoming, making visitors feel at home as they celebrate. Jaipur’s vibrant energy and stunning architecture make it one of the most breathtaking cities in India, offering a truly unforgettable Holi experience.
If you love the energy and colors of Holi, why not explore other incredible festivals around the world? From Spain’s La Tomatina to Mexico’s Day of the Dead, Europamundo takes you to some of the most unique and vibrant cultural celebrations. Check out our tours HERE!
