Spirit of Goa Festival 2026 Returns to Colva

Goa Festival Highlights Cuisine, Spirits and Local Culture

The Department of Tourism, Goa, will host the Spirit of Goa Festival 2026 from 24 to 26 April at the SAG Ground in Colva. Scheduled from 6 pm onwards each day, the festival brings together food, beverages, music and craft traditions that reflect the state’s cultural identity.

A key focus of the event is Goa’s food and beverage heritage, including local dishes and the traditional spirit feni. Visitors will be able to explore food stalls, attend live cooking demonstrations, and interact with local distillers to learn about traditional production methods.

The festival will open with a performance by the Kanta Gawde dance troupe, followed by a programme of live music across three days. Performances will include bands such as Junktion, Shine On Band and Danceophilia on the first day, with additional acts scheduled across the remaining days.

Dedicated areas will also feature local artisans and small businesses, showcasing handicrafts, textiles and locally produced goods. Workshops, mixology sessions and cultural demonstrations are planned to provide visitors with a closer look at Goan traditions and contemporary practices.

Rohan A. Khaunte, Tourism Minister, Government of Goa, said the festival highlights aspects of the state’s culture that extend beyond conventional tourism, including food traditions, local beverages and community-led initiatives.

The Spirit of Goa Festival remains part of the state’s annual events calendar, contributing to cultural tourism while supporting local artisans, producers and entrepreneurs.