As kids, we’ve all dreamed about a magical land filled with twinkling lights and this is exactly what Goa looks like during Christmas. Every nook and corner of this charming city is decorated with Christmas lights, offering you moments that hold the potential to be inked in your memories for a long time. If you plan on visiting, here is everything you need to know about Christmas in Goa and the experiences you shouldn’t miss.
Goa is home to some of India's most architecturally stunning and oldest churches. With over 400 churches so your options won’t end. There’s nothing better to do than experience a midnight mass at one of these beautiful churches on Christmas Eve.
Midnight mass is a popular tradition during Christmas and the spirit of the community makes it even more special. We’ll suggest you attend mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus which is one of the oldest churches in India. Try to grab a seat at the church around 10 pm so you get sufficient time to enjoy the carols and hymns.
Best Churches To Experience Midnight Mass
Dancing is a wonderful activity and Goa is hands down known for its party scenes which elevate to a dreamy extent when it’s Christmas time. There are so many pubs and clubs that organize special Christmas Eve waltz, performances by local bands, techno parties, and karaoke. Some clubs especially organize trance and rave parties so if you’re a party person, we don’t think any other experience will ever top this.
Best Places For A Mad Night Of Dancing On Christmas Eve
If your Christmas trip extends up to New Year, you can consider going for the 3-day Sunburn festival. It’s especially a huge deal for fans of electronic music. Sunburn can definitely be one of the most fun ways to celebrate Christmas with insane electronic music, dance, and artists.
It’s a celebration of fun and music so if your Goa plans include your friends and you want to witness Christmas in an unforgettable way, start booking your tickets. The Sunburn festival 2022 in Goa is mostly expected to happen from 28th to the 30th of December. Keep these dates in mind for when you plan on attending.
Location: Vagator, Goa
No festival is complete without delicious food and like every other department, Goa excels in this as well. Goan Christmas food consists of a large variety of traditional dishes. The Christmas feast includes a fine mix of sweet and flavorful dishes. Be prepared to lose yourself in the taste of freshly baked rum cakes, Feni (traditional liquor), and fruit cakes.
This is also a time when you will be tasting traditional Goan sweets such as dodol, bath, kulkuls, and bebinca. There are so many restaurants, bakeries, and cake shops serving some of the most delicious Christmas feasts.
Places To Enjoy Christmas Feast In Goa
Goa is a pretty lit town on most days but it especially lights up during the Christmas season. Every single thing reflects the Christmas spirit in Goa but the firework show take the entire energy to another level. When the bursting crackers from the Goa lanes meet the party lights, the whole Goa sky gets filled with blinding lights and fireworks. It’s a scene that your eyes will never forget because you’ll have the sea right next to you reflecting all those gorgeous lights.
Beaches To Enjoy Firework Shows
Goa has the spirit and versatility to cater to any kind of traveler. If you’re looking to have a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience and budget is not a constraint, we’ll definitely suggest you get on a river cruise. A river cruise is a fancy experience but it becomes even more surreal during Christmas time. The sky will be filled with firecrackers and Christmas lights as you’ll enjoy luxury amidst the Mandovi river, a total paradise if you ask us!
Some Of The Best Christmas Cruises
One of the best ways to enjoy a festival is by celebrating it the way locals celebrate it. Crib-making and star-making are some of the most popular events during Christmas time and Goans take them very seriously. So many parishes across North and South Goa organize these events and locals chime in with enthusiasm.
These cribs and star-making competitions depict the birth of Jesus Christ in various creative ways. Many cribs and stars are made using eco-friendly reusable materials. So, if you want an authentic cultural experience, definitely go on crib hopping with your gang.
Places To Check Out Crib-Making And Star-Making Competitions
Summing Up
Goa knows how to party and when it comes to celebrating Christmas, we don’t think any other Indian city can compete with it. We’re sure that our list of Christmas experiences will help you plan your Christmas celebrations better. So, go ahead and start booking because before you know it, everything will be booked.
Is Christmas A Good Time To Visit Goa?
Christmas is a dreamy time to visit Goa. It looks like a literal paradise with all the lighting, decoration, and fireworks. It's a perfect time to visit Goa if your aim is to party all night and immerse in the festive vibes.
How Cold Is Goa In December?
December is one of the best times to visit Goa because it falls under the time when the town experiences a short period of winter. The temperatures are around 25 to 28 degree celsius, making it pleasantly cool.
What Is Special In Goa For Christmas?
Goa lights up during Christmas with magical lights and mind-blowing parties. With the masses, feasts, events, and music, you’ll have a lot to look forward to.
How Should I Dress In Goa?
When one mentions Goa, floral dresses are the first thing that comes to mind, and rightly so. Other than adorable sundresses, you can also pack bikinis, overalls, shorts, tank tops, and midi dresses. Although, you can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable.
What Are Compulsory Prepared During Christmas In Goa?
Bread, cakes, and bolinhas are some of the most important sweets prepared during Christmas.
Why Goa Is Costly In December?
December is a peak tourist season in Goa. With Christmas celebrations, the Sunburn festival, and New Year parties, tourists flock to the party town to have the best time which is one of the main reasons behind the high prices.
Where Can I Enjoy Christmas In Goa?
If you’re in Goa during Christmas, you’re certainly going to enjoy it. Goa has a lot to offer from bustling bars, and clubs to great restaurants and bakeries offering mouthwatering Christmas feasts and sweets. You can also visit the Goan churches and streets to simply soak in the Christmas spirit.