Festivals

The Kondapalli Toys Festival celebrates the rich tradition of the world-famous Kondapalli wooden toys, handcrafted by skilled artisans in Kondapalli village near Vijayawada in NTR District, Andhra Pradesh. The festival showcases beautifully crafted wooden toys, cultural performances, live craft demonstrations, and exhibitions highlighting the region’s artistic heritage. Visitors can watch artisans at work, purchase authentic handmade toys, and enjoy traditional music, dance, and local cuisine. The festival promotes the centuries-old craft of Kondapalli toys, preserving Andhra Pradesh’s cultural legacy while supporting local artisans and attracting tourists from across the country.

Krishna Pushkaram is a sacred river festival celebrated once every 12 years on the banks of the Krishna River in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. The festival begins when Jupiter enters the zodiac sign Virgo (Kanya Rasi) and attracts millions of devotees from across India. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the Krishna River, believing it cleanses sins and brings spiritual blessings. Major ghats in Vijayawada, especially near Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam, witness grand religious ceremonies, cultural programs, and special arrangements for devotees. Krishna Pushkaram is one of the largest and most significant spiritual events in Andhra Pradesh, celebrating faith, devotion, and the sanctity of the Krishna River.

Dasara, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most celebrated festivals in NTR District, Andhra Pradesh. The festival is observed with great devotion at the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam on Indrakeeladri Hill in Vijayawada, where Goddess Kanaka Durga is worshipped in different divine forms during the nine-day Navaratri celebrations. Thousands of devotees visit the temple to seek blessings and participate in special rituals, cultural programs, and grand processions. Dasara symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is celebrated with faith, joy, and vibrant traditions across the district.

Sankranti Sambaralu is one of the grandest festivals celebrated in NTR District, Andhra Pradesh, marking the harvest season with joy and cultural pride. The three-day festival—Bhogi, Makara Sankranti, and Kanuma—is celebrated with colorful rangoli (muggu), kite flying, Haridasu performances, Gangireddu processions, traditional folk dances, and community feasts. Villages and towns across the district come alive with cultural programs, temple celebrations, and family gatherings. The festival reflects the rich agricultural heritage, traditions, and vibrant spirit of the people, making it one of the most cherished celebrations in the region.

Gunadala Matha Utsavalu is the annual feast celebrated at Gunadala Matha Shrine (St. Mary’s Church) in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. Held every year in February, this three-day festival is one of the largest Christian religious events in the state. Thousands of devotees from different faiths gather to offer prayers, participate in Holy Mass, and seek the blessings of Mother Mary. The celebrations include special processions, devotional hymns, candlelight prayers, and community services. The festival is a symbol of faith, devotion, and communal harmony, attracting pilgrims from across India.