From India to the world, Holi spreads color, culture, and celebration!
Holi is a festival that goes beyond borders, uniting people in a vibrant celebration of colors and joy. If you believe Holi is only celebrated in India, think again. While its roots lie in India—especially in Mathura and Vrindavan, where the grandest festivities take place—Holi has now found a place in major international cities beyond Asia. The festival’s exuberance has spread across the globe, with many countries embracing the celebration to honor the Indian diaspora and promote Indian culture. Let’s explore some of the top destinations worldwide where Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm.
There’s no denying that strong roots are essential, and when it comes to Holi, India is where it all begins. Mathura and Vrindavan are inseparable from any list of top Holi destinations. The festivities here extend over a week, featuring traditional rituals, lively processions, and the unique Lathmar Holi, where women playfully strike men with sticks. In Vrindavan, thousands of devotees come together to sing, dance, and immerse themselves in colors in devotion to Krishna. With a week-long celebration filled with music, dance, and colors, Mathura and Vrindavan offer the most authentic Holi experience.
Among the top destinations to celebrate Holi outside India, Australia hosts some of the biggest festivities. Sydney’s ‘Holi Mahotsav’ at Darling Harbour is a grand celebration featuring cultural performances, music, dance, and colors. Meanwhile, Melbourne’s ‘Festival of Colours’ is another major highlight, bringing people together for a day of fun, dance, and festivities.
Canada hosts numerous Holi celebrations across various locations, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for the festival. With a large number of Indian students studying in Canada, Holi has even become a part of university life, where both Indian and international students come together to celebrate. One of the most prominent events is the ‘Toronto Holi Festival,’ which draws a diverse crowd with lively music, energetic dance, and a spectacular display of colors.
(Credit: HOLI ONE)
In Nepal, Holi is celebrated as Fagu Purnima. The festivities commence with the ceremonial Holika Dahan, a bonfire ritual similar to Indian traditions. The following day, people gather in public spaces to play with colors, dance, and enjoy traditional music. Kathmandu, the capital, is at the heart of the celebrations, with Thamel and Durbar Square serving as the main hubs for festivities.
(Credit: Himalayan Wonders)
In the UK, Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Indian community, and the festival has been warmly embraced by British citizens. The country hosts some of the most vibrant Holi events outside India, with major celebrations in cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham. One of the most popular events is the ‘Rang Barse Holi Festival’ in London, which draws thousands of participants to its open-air venues. The festivities feature traditional Indian music, dance performances, and food stalls serving delicious Indian cuisine.
