India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and natural wonders coexist with vibrant cities.
Delhi, being a melting pot of cultures and traditions, celebrates a variety of festivals, fairs, and events throughout the year. From grand religious celebrations to cultural festivals and food fairs, there’s always something happening in the capital city!
Here are the top festivals and events you must experience in Delhi:
1. Republic Day Parade – A Grand National Celebration
Where: Rajpath (Kartavya Path), New Delhi
When: January 26 (Annual Event)
Entry: ₹20 – ₹500 (Tickets available at select government offices)
Why Attend?
✅ Witness India’s biggest military parade & cultural showcase.
✅ Grand tableaus from different states, army bands, and air shows.
✅ The President & Prime Minister attend the event.
✔ Pro Tip: Arrive early to get the best spot, or watch from India Gate lawns.
2. Diwali – The Festival of Lights
Where: Entire city (Markets, temples, and homes)
When: October – November (Varies by lunar calendar)
Why Visit Delhi During Diwali?
✅ Experience the magical sight of Delhi illuminated with lights & diyas.
✅ Enjoy fireworks, festive shopping, and grand temple decorations.
✅ Try delicious Diwali sweets like kaju katli, gulab jamun & motichoor laddoo.
✔ Best Places to Celebrate:
✔ Akshardham Temple & Bangla Sahib Gurudwara – For stunning light displays.
✔ Chandni Chowk & Connaught Place – For festive shopping.
✔ Pro Tip: Visit Dilli Haat or Select Citywalk Mall for Diwali fairs.
3. Holi – The Festival of Colors
Where: Entire city (Streets, parks, community events)
When: March (Varies by lunar calendar)
Why Celebrate Holi in Delhi?
✅ Play with organic colors, water balloons & enjoy bhang thandai.
✅ Experience community Holi events with music & dance.
✅ Try delicious Holi special food – gujiya, malpua, and bhang-infused drinks.
✔ Best Places to Celebrate:
✔ Holi Moo Festival (Delhi’s biggest Holi party – music, DJs & colors!)
✔ Lodhi Garden & Hauz Khas – For a fun, safe Holi experience.
✔ Pro Tip: Wear old clothes & sunglasses, and apply coconut oil to protect your skin from colors.
4. Durga Puja – The Grand Bengali Celebration
Where: Chittaranjan Park (Mini Kolkata in Delhi)
When: September – October
Why Visit Delhi During Durga Puja?
✅ Explore beautifully decorated pandals & life-size Durga idols.
✅ Enjoy authentic Bengali food like fish curry, sandesh, and mishti doi.
✅ Experience cultural performances like Dhunuchi dance & Sindoor Khela.
✔ Best Places to Celebrate:
✔ CR Park, Kashmere Gate, and Minto Road Pandals.
✔ Pro Tip: Try Bhog Prasad (Khichuri, Beguni, and Payesh) at puja pandals.
5. Eid-ul-Fitr – A Time of Feasting & Festivities
Where: Jama Masjid, Nizamuddin Dargah, Chandni Chowk
When: April – May (Varies by lunar calendar)
Why Visit Delhi During Eid?
✅ Witness grand celebrations at Jama Masjid & Nizamuddin Dargah.
✅ Enjoy special Eid delicacies like Biryani, Kebabs, Sheer Kurma & Phirni.
✅ Experience Delhi’s best street food at Chandni Chowk’s Iftar markets.
✔ Best Places to Celebrate:
✔ Jama Masjid & Matia Mahal – For the best Mughlai food.
✔ Nizamuddin Dargah – For special Sufi music performances.
✔ Pro Tip: Visit Karim’s or Al Jawahar for authentic Eid feasts.
6. Qutub Festival – Music & Dance Under the Stars
Where: Qutub Minar Complex
When: November
Why Attend?
✅ Enjoy live classical Indian dance & music performances.
✅ Experience a magical night at Qutub Minar lit up beautifully.
✅ See performances by renowned artists of Indian classical music.
✔ Pro Tip: Book tickets early as this is a limited-seat event.
7. Surajkund International Crafts Mela
Where: Surajkund, Haryana (Near Delhi)
When: February 1 – 15
Entry Fee: ₹100 – ₹150
Why Visit?
✅ Asia’s biggest craft fair showcasing handicrafts, textiles, and folk art.
✅ Enjoy cultural performances, folk dances & regional cuisines.
✅ Shop for handmade pottery, jewelry, and decor from across India.
✔ Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid the crowd.
8. Delhi Food Festivals – Heaven for Foodies
National Street Food Festival
Where: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
When: December – January
Entry Fee: ₹100 – ₹200
✅ Taste India’s best street food from all states in one place!
✅ Try Dilli Chaat, Vada Pav, Litti Chokha & Hyderabadi Biryani.
Delhi Cocktail Week
Where: Various bars & pubs across Delhi
When: January
✅ A week-long celebration of cocktails, mixology, and party events.
✅ Top bartenders & DJs host exclusive drink-tasting sessions.
9. Auto Expo – Asia’s Biggest Automobile Event
Where: India Expo Mart, Greater Noida
When: Every 2 years (Next: 2025)
Entry Fee: ₹300 – ₹750
✅ See the latest cars, bikes & concept vehicles.
✅ Best for auto lovers & tech enthusiasts.
10. India Art Fair – A Showcase of Global Art
Where: NSIC Grounds, Okhla
When: February
Entry Fee: ₹500+
✅ Explore contemporary & traditional art exhibits.
✅ Meet artists, collectors & designers.
✔ Best for: Art lovers & photographers.