Ask most people what happens in Goa in December, and they'll say: parties. They are not wrong. But the parties are only one thread in a month that is crowded with feasts, fairs, markets, music and art. If you know where to look, December in Goa is a festival calendar in itself.
The month opens with the Feast of St. Francis Xavier in Old Goa on 3 December, preceded by days of novenas and accompanied by a sprawling fair of sweets, clothes and household goods. A few days later, Panjim celebrates the feast of its landmark church, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, with its own lively fair. These are local, joyful events, and visitors are welcome.
Goa's markets come alive in the dry season. The Wednesday flea market at Anjuna is the old classic, a long, colourful sprawl of clothes, jewellery, spices and stories. The Saturday night markets in North Goa are the evening version, with food stalls, live music, handmade crafts and a slightly carnival feel.
Go with time, some cash and a willingness to bargain politely. Go hungry.
December is often when Panjim hosts large arts events, with exhibitions, performances, food and music spread across old buildings along the river. Check the year's schedule before you travel. Alongside the big festivals, you'll find gallery openings, heritage walks through Fontainhas and small music evenings in village halls.
In the second half of the month, villages hold carol singing, crib-making competitions and Christmas dances. Some of the most memorable evenings are completely unplanned: a choir in a chapel courtyard, a street lit with stars, a family inviting you to taste their kuswar.
The month ends with Goa's famous New Year's celebrations, from huge ticketed dance events to beach countdowns and fireworks. Big music festivals have shifted dates and venues over the years, so confirm the current calendar before planning around one.
We plan our Goa journeys to catch the festival spirit without the stress. Explore GoRaahi's upcoming December departures.
Your code will be emailed to you. We'll also create your GoRaahi account.
Your coupon code has been sent to .
Not there in a minute? Check Promotions or Spam.
Explore trips