Holi’s traditions vary throughout the country and have their roots in Indian mythology. In many places the festival is associated with the legend of Hiranyakashipu, a demon king in ancient India. Hiranyakashipu enlisted the help of his sister, Holika, to kill his son, Prahlada, a devoted worshipper of Vishnu . The Holi Festival in March 2013 at the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Utah County, Utah. Holi is celebrated as a social event in parts of the United States. [139] For example, at Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, Utah, NYC Holi Hai in Manhattan, New York [140] and Festival of Colors: Holi NYC in New York City, New York. [139] [141 A colorful and dynamic festival, the annual celebration of Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors, is celebrated by Hindus in India and throughout the world. Revelers cover each other in Holi, often called the "festival of colors," is a vibrant and joyful Hindu celebration that marks spring’s arrival, the triumph of good over evil, and the legendary love between Radha and Krishna. The festival of Holi, along with its trademark smearing of colors, likely has deep roots in ancient India. It is mentioned in some fashion in appendices to the Atharvaveda , in some renditions of the Kamasutra , in which it is called Holaka, and in the Prakrit Sattasai poems by Hala, in which it is called Phalgunotsava (“Spring Festival”). The color is deeply connected with the eternal bond of Radha and Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna used to playfully smear colors on Radha’s face. Red also holds significance in the Hindu religion as the color of Goddess Durga, the color used in religious ceremonies, and the color of sindoor. 2. Blue Holi, widely known as the Hindu festival of colors, is a joyful annual celebration at the advent of spring with cultural and religious significance.. Typically observed in March in India, Nepal, other South Asian countries and across the diaspora, the festival celebrates love and signifies a time of rebirth and rejuvenation — a time to embrace the positive and let go of negative energy. In Odisha: Holi is celebrated with the tradition of ‘Dola Yatra’, where the idols of Radha and Krishna are carried in processions. In Maharashtra: The festival is celebrated with ‘Puran Poli’ sweets and community gatherings. VI. Symbolism of Colors in Holi A. Meaning behind different colors used during the festival Holi, the festival of colours, will take place on March 14, this one of India’s most vibrant and joyous celebrations, marking the arrival of spring, renewal, and the triumph of good over evil. Holi is much more than a festival of colors—it is a celebration of life, love, and renewal. Rooted in rich religious stories, Holi teaches that goodness will always prevail over evil. The festival unites people in a spirit of community, laughter, and renewal, fostering harmony and goodwill across all boundaries. Known as the festival of colors, Holi is celebrated on the last full moon in the lunar month of Phalguna—this usually occurs in March. This ancient tradition marks the end of winter and honors the triumph of good over evil. The night before Holi, people light bonfires to say goodbye to winter. They gather at temples to sing and dance to music. Traditional Holi Celebrations in India. Holi is a two-day festival filled with devotion, fun, and colors!. 1. Holika Dahan (March 13, 2025) – The Bonfire Ritual. At night, bonfires are lit to symbolize the burning away of evil. Holi, the Festival of Colors, is a vibrant celebration of love, unity, and renewal. Marking the arrival of spring, it symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. People come together to play with colors, enjoy festive foods, and embrace joy, forgiveness, and togetherness. Sweets, desserts, and street foods are a large part of any Indian festival and are especially important on Holi. During the color fights, you'll find street food vendors selling tasty snacks like papri chaat and samosas to feed the celebrating masses. Holi 2025 wishes: Holi, the Festival of Colors, is a joyful Hindu festival celebrated with colours, music, dance, and delicious food. It marks the beginning of spring and commemorates the victory of good over evil. This year, Holika Dahan will be celebrated on March 13, followed by Holi on March 14. The Hindu festival of Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors, heralds the beginning of spring. Exclusive news, data and analytics for financial market professionals Learn more about Refinitiv. Holi is a festival celebrating the arrival of spring. People celebrate by playing with colors, singing, dancing, and enjoying delicious food and sweets. Join Bellevue Hindu Temple and Cultural Center to celebrate Holi 2025 with live DJ Music, colors (organic and skin-friendly) for sale, and mouth-watering food for purchase. Holi, the vibrant festival of colors, has transcended borders, spreading its joyous spirit far beyond India. From Nepal’s traditional rituals to massive color festivals in the United States and Europe, Holi is celebrated in unique ways across the world. Explore how different countries embrace this colorful festival, blending cultural traditions with modern festivities! 2. Holi Festival of Color. Address: Marymoor Park; 6046 West Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond Date: Saturday, April 5 Organized by Northwest Share, The Vedic Cultural Center and Marymoor Park's annual Holi Festival of Color is back on Saturday, April 5th from noon to 5:00 p.m. Located on Bellevue's Northeastern border by Lake Sammamish, Marymoor Park is a beautiful natural gathering space. Holi is a vibrant spring festival in India that celebrates color and light. People enjoy this festival by lighting large bonfires and tossing colorful powders on one another. Known as the Festival of Colors, it embodies themes of family, forgiveness, and renewal.
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |