9 Famous Punjabi Festivals For International Visitors To Experience

Punjab is a combination of two hindi words “panj” and “ab”, which literally means the “Land of Five Rivers.” And just like its name, the state’s festivals are a harmonious blend of traditional values, religious significance, and joyful celebrations. These reflect the region’s deep-rooted cultural philosophy and unite communities. Thus, anyone who participates in Punjabi festivals gets an unforgettable experience. Let’s get started.

Important Sikh Holidays 2025: Festival Dates and Occasion

Punjabi Festivals 2025: Significance of Major Festivals in Sikhism

Festivals are the best way to get to the roots of any religion and faith. That said, Punjabi festivals are the best way to learn about the values, culture, and tradition of Punjabis. You’ll be surprised to know that the dates of these festivals are according to the Nanakshahi calendar, most of which include birth anniversaries and martyrdom of the Sikh gurus. Here’s a list of the important festivals in Punjab:

1. Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti

It is the birthday of the 10th and the last living guru of Sikhs, Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji. The day generally falls in December or January, based on Nanakshahi calendar. Sikhs around the world remember the Guru, his teachings, and his contributions in shaping Sikhism. Kirtans, processions, and seva (selfless service) fill the day and devotees get karha prashad.

2. Lohri

You’ll be amazed to know that Lohri marks the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season in Punjab. That’s why, it is celebrated on 13th January every year. And if you go back to history, this festival of Punjab is associated with the harvesting of rabi crops such as wheat, mustard, barley, oats, etc. In fact, it was an occasion of gratitude for a generous harvest.

People gather around large bonfires to sing folk songs like “sundar mundriye” and perform the iconic bhangra and gidda (Punjabi folk dances). Traditional foods such as gur (jaggery), moongfali (peanuts), fulle (popcorn), and rewri and gajak (types of sweet) are shared as part of the festivities. Lohri isn’t limited to harvest, but holds a special importance for newlywed couples and newborns. You would be surprised to know that families organize grand celebrations to mark these milestones!

3. Maghi

Maghi Mela, observed on January 14, is celebrated alongside Lohri. The festival holds immense historical and spiritual importance. Wondering what is it? Maghi mela honors the heroism of the 40 Sikh martyrs, known as the Chali Mukte (the liberated 40), who sacrificed their lives defending Guru Gobind Singh Ji against Wazir Khan.

The day begins with an early morning holy dip in rivers or ponds, followed by prayers at Gurudwaras. Fairs and cultural performances are common, providing a platform to celebrate Punjab’s heroic past. Traditional delicacies like kheer and khichdi are prepared, adding a culinary dimension to the celebrations.

4. Hola Mohalla

Hola Mohalla is celebrated a day after Holi. It showcases the martial heritage of Sikhism that was introduced by Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji. An important thing for you to note is that this festival is a three-day event held at Shri Anandpur Sahib. Or we should say, it is a package of Punjabi holidays!

During this festival, the Sikhs display martial arts, horse riding, archery, mock battles, and traditional gatka (Sikh martial arts) emphasizing discipline and courage. Kirtans, poetry recitations, and community meals add to the experience. In short, Hola Mohalla stands apart for its unique blend of spirituality, cultural pride, and physical endurance.

5. Vaisakhi

Celebrated on April 13 or 14, Baisakhi marks the Punjabi New Year and the harvest of wheat. Wait there’s more to this festival of Punjab! It is also deeply intertwined with Sikh history as it marks the establishment of the Khalsa Panth by the tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699.

Gurudwaras are beautifully decorated, and community prayers, or kirtans, are held. And how can we forget the iconic concept of community kitchen, or Langars? Nagar kirtan (processions) are organized across the state, bringing together people from all walks of life.

Here’s a pro tip: visiting Punjab during this time offers a firsthand glimpse into its agrarian and spiritual roots.

6. Bandi Chhor Diwas (Diwali): Celebrating Freedom

While people across India celebrate Diwali as the festival of lights, Sikhs celebrate it as Bandi Chhor Divas. Simply put, Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, along with 52 other prisoners were released from Mughal emperor Jahangir’s captivity.
There’s an interesting story behind this! Emperor Jahangir said that prisoners who can hold Guru’s coat will be released. His idea was to release the minimum number of prisoners. However, Guru Hargobind got a coat with 52 tassles so that all the kings and princes could be released from captivity. And thus, the day gets its name – bandi chhor diwas.

It is total “lit” scene as gurudwaras and homes are decorated with lights and oil lamps, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Fireworks, sweets, and family gatherings make the festival truly joyous. Visiting the Golden Temple in Amritsar during Diwali is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with its stunning reflection in the sacred sarovar (holy pond).

7. Shaheedi Diwas

Sikhs remember the martyrdom of the Sikh Gurus including Shri Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Shri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji. Arjan Dev, the 5th Sikh guru was the first Sikh martyr who was tortured and executed by Jahangir. Can you guess the reason? Not converting his religion. His martyrdom day falls in June, where people put stalls of lassi (a sweet beverage) to commemorate the Guru. The ninth Sikh guru, Teg Bahadur Ji was executed in 1675 by the Mughals. The reason? Standing against the forced religious conversions. This day is observed in November.

8. Prakash Utsav

Let’s travel back in time here! Guru Gobind Singh Ji was the last dehdaari (living) guru of the Sikhs. He appointed Guru Granth Sahib ji, an embodiment of the teachings of all Sikh Gurus, as the final and eternal guru for sikhs. And thus, we celebrate Prakash Utsav of Guru Granth Sahib ji. The devotees offer their gratitude for the enlightenment and wisdom that the holy scripture bestows upon us.

9. Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Jayanti is the well-known Punjabi festival that marks the birth anniversary of first Sikh Guru Nanak Dev ji. He was born on the day of Kartik Purnima, 15 April, 1469, in Talwandi, Punjab. He shaped Sikhism and laid the three important pillars: naam japna (meditate upon the name of lord), kirat karni (earning an honest living and living a family-oriented life), vand chakhna (sharing with others and helping others). These guidelines were established by Guru Nanak Dev ji.

And out of all Punjabi holidays, the most significant one is Guru Nanak Jayanti. Moreover, the dates of Gurupurabs change every year, depending on the Nanakshahi calendar. Gurudwaras become centers of devotion, with Akhand Path (continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib) and Nagar Kirtans. During gurupurabs, Gurudwaras are adorned with embellishments, while the sound of kirtans add to the beauty of the place.

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Bottom Line

Punjabi festivals are a perfect mix of culture, faith, and community spirit. Each festival offers unique insights into the traditions and values that define Punjab, leaving visitors with cherished memories. Experiencing these festivals fosters a deeper appreciation for Punjab’s heritage and serves as a reminder of the universal values of unity, gratitude, and joy.
Whether you are drawn by the dazzling lights of Diwali, the fervor of Baisakhi, or the serenity of a Gurpurab, Punjab’s festivals promise a cultural immersion unlike any other.