Goa is set to host its most iconic festivals—Shigmotsav, Carnaval, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti—with grand fervor, promising vibrant celebrations that showcase the state’s cultural heritage. Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte, along with GTDC Chairman Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, and GTDC Managing Director Kuldeep Arolkar, chaired meetings on January 24, 2025, to finalize logistics, coordination, and promotional strategies for the events. Representatives from municipal councils, police, traffic, and emergency services also participated to ensure smooth execution.
Carnaval will take place from February 28 to March 4, 2025, featuring five days of colorful celebrations and float parades across Goa. A curtain-raiser in Porvorim on February 28 will set the tone, followed by parades in Panaji (March 1), Margao (March 2), Vasco (March 3), and Mapusa and Morjim (March 4). Prize and infrastructure funds of ₹27,35,000 have been allocated for Panaji, Margao, Vasco, and Mapusa, while Porvorim and Morjim will receive ₹17,35,000 and ₹14,25,000, respectively.
Shigmotsav, a 15-day celebration of Goa’s folk traditions, will run from March 15 to March 29, 2025, with float parades across 19 centers. The festivities begin in Ponda (March 15), followed by Margao (March 16), Mandrem and Quepem (March 17), Shiroda and Curchorem (March 18), and continue with events in Calangute, Vasco, Panaji, and other locations. The parades will culminate in Porvorim on March 29, highlighting Goa’s rich cultural heritage. Prize money for minor centers has been increased by ₹50,000 to encourage broader participation.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti will be celebrated on February 19, 2025, in cities including Panaji, Margao, Mapusa, Vasco, and Ponda, with a one-time grant of ₹5 lakh allocated to support organizing committees.
These festivals are a testament to Goa’s dedication to preserving its traditions while fostering tourism, promising unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.
