December is a fun time to be in Goa. With festivals and feasts galore, perfect weather and the much-awaited Christmas and new year parties, Goa is without a doubt India's favourite December destination. Here is a curated list of things to do in Goa to end the year on a good note:
The annual Serendipity Arts Festival will take place in Panjim from December 15 to 23. Hosted by Serendipity Arts Foundation, a not-for-profit, conceptualised with a vision to energise arts production, awareness, and practice across South Asia, the festival is back with a line-up of immersive and interdisciplinary programmes conceptualised by a panel of distinguished curators spanning across the performing, visual, culinary arts and crafts. Theatre performances designed for children, large-scale public installations in the visual arts and photography, a variety of outdoor and evening music performances, culinary workshops and tastings are also a part of this extravagant showpiece. Check out their website for the schedule.
There is so much to do in Goa during Christmas that you won't know where to start. Visit one of many bakeries in Goa and samples yuletide delights. Goa's 500-year-old baking tradition is reflected in its old bakeries which seamlessly weave the best of local and European flavours. If you want to experience Christmas the authentic way, visit the many churches and chapels that dot the state. The midnight service at the Basilica of Bom Jesus or the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception should undoubtedly be on your list of Christmas Eve activities.
Explore the vibrant "Rua de Natal" streets in Panjim with a tour guide. Take it up a notch with a guided tour. Immerse yourself in the smells of holiday treats, the beautifully decorated and illuminated streets and homes, and the glow of Nativity cribs. Take in the sounds of carols and visit a bakery to indulge in some Goan Christmas treats and speciality wines. Check here for details.
While Sunburn Arena hosts events across India throughout the year, few experiences can match up to Sunburn Goa, the OG music and dance festival. What started as a three-day music festival on the beaches of India's sunny state, Goa, has become one of the world's biggest music celebrations, featuring Indian and International artists on a single platform. The 18th edition will take place on Vagator Beach in Goa from December 28-31, allowing music aficionados to let their hair down and immerse themselves in the world of EDM. The event will feature artists like Belgian DJ and record producer Charlotte de Witte, best known for her "dark and stripped-back" brand of acid techno and minimal techno, and Dutch DJ and music producer Hardwell. Book tickets here.