Shigmotsav is one of Goa’s most vibrant and culturally rich festivals, celebrated with grand parades, traditional music, folk dances, and colourful costumes across the state. Often referred to as the Festival of Goa, Shigmotsav marks the arrival of spring and showcases Goa’s deep-rooted heritage, community spirit, and love for celebration.
Celebrated every year in the month of March, Shigmotsav is a visual spectacle that brings together locals and tourists to witness Goa beyond its beaches through its traditions, folklore, and age-old customs. Shigmotsav is best known for its spectacular street parades, locally called Romtamel. These parades feature:
Traditional Goan folk dances
Performers dressed in elaborate mythological and cultural costumes
Live percussion with ghumots, dhols, and tashe
Vibrant floats depicting stories from Indian epics and Goan folklore
Villages and towns come alive as communities come together to dance, sing, and celebrate. One of the most iconic chants you’ll hear during the festival is “Vossai!”, shouted joyfully by performers and spectators alike, adding to the festive energy. Shigmotsav is not just a performance it’s a celebration of Goan identity, unity, and seasonal renewal. Shigmotsav 2026 will be celebrated over 14 days, covering multiple towns across Goa, making it easy for visitors to catch the festivities no matter where they are staying. For travelers, Shigmotsav offers a rare chance to experience authentic Goan culture up close:
Free, open-air celebrations
Rich traditions passed down generations
Incredible photography opportunities
A festive atmosphere that’s welcoming and inclusive
Whether you’re visiting Goa for the first time or returning for more, Shigmotsav lets you see the soul of Goa colourful, joyful, and deeply rooted in tradition. Experience Goa Beyond the Beaches Celebrate spring, culture, and community at Shigmotsav 2026 a festival where Goa truly comes alive.
