Festivals in Bihar 2025 | Celebrate Culture & Traditions
Bihar, a land of rich heritage and deep-rooted traditions, is home to some of the most vibrant festivals in India. The state celebrates a diverse range of cultural, religious, and harvest festivals that attract tourists and devotees from across the country. These festivals in Bihar reflect the essence of its age-old customs, community spirit, and devotion.
If you are planning to explore Bihar in 2025, knowing about the famous festivals in Bihar will enhance your travel experience. Let’s dive into the grand celebrations that make Bihar a unique cultural destination.
Famous Festivals in Bihar 2025: Celebrate Cultural Heritage & Traditions
1. Chhath Puja: The Grand Sun Worship Festival
Date: 9th – 12th November 2025
Significance: Chhath Puja is one of the most revered festivals in Bihar, dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya. Celebrated with immense devotion, this festival involves strict rituals, fasting, and prayers performed by devotees on riverbanks, especially on the banks of the Ganges.
Rituals & Celebrations:
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Devotees observe a 36-hour fast without water.
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Evening Arghya and Morning Arghya are offered to the Sun.
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Women perform rituals while standing in water.
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Folk songs and traditional Bhojpuri music add to the festive spirit.
2. Sonepur Mela: The Largest Cattle Fair in Asia
Date: 10th November – 10th December 2025
Significance: Sonepur Mela, also known as the Harihar Kshetra Mela, is one of the most famous festivals in Bihar. It is recognized as the largest cattle fair in Asia and attracts traders and tourists alike.
Highlights of Sonepur Mela:
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Massive trade of elephants, horses, and other livestock.
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Grand religious rituals at the Hariharnath Temple.
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Cultural performances and folk dances.
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Display of traditional handicrafts and local cuisine.
3. Makar Sankranti: The Festival of Harvest and Kite Flying
Date: 14th January 2025
Significance: Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the sun into Capricorn. It is a harvest festival celebrated across Bihar with immense enthusiasm.
Traditional Practices:
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Special delicacies like Tilkut, Dahi-Chura, and Khichdi are prepared.
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Kite flying is a major attraction.
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Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges.
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Community feasts bring people together.
4. Pitru Paksha Mela: The Ritual for Ancestors
Date: 14th – 28th September 2025
Significance: Gaya, the sacred city of Bihar, hosts the Pitru Paksha Mela, where Hindus perform Pind Daan for their ancestors to attain salvation.
Key Rituals:
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Pind Daan at Vishnupad Temple.
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Chanting of Vedic mantras.
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Offerings of food and clothes to Brahmins.
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Spiritual discourse sessions.
5. Rajgir Mahotsav: A Cultural Extravaganza
Date: 27th – 29th December 2025
Significance: Rajgir Mahotsav is a grand cultural festival showcasing the heritage of Bihar. It is a perfect blend of music, dance, and art.
Festival Attractions:
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Classical dance and music performances.
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Folk art exhibitions.
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Traditional sports and adventure activities.
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Local handicrafts and food stalls.
6. Sama-Chakeva: The Festival of Brother-Sister Bond
Date: November 2025
Significance: This folk festival of Bihar celebrates the love between brothers and sisters, featuring colorful rituals and artistic displays.
Key Elements of the Celebration:
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Clay figurines of Sama and Chakeva are crafted.
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Women sing folk songs throughout the festival.
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Sisters pray for the well-being of their brothers.
7. Buddha Jayanti: Honoring Lord Buddha
Date: 12th May 2025
Significance: Bodh Gaya, the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, celebrates Buddha Jayanti with grandeur.
Major Events:
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Prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple.
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Processions with Buddha’s relics.
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Meditation and spiritual discourses.
8. Bihula Festival: The Faith of Anga Region
Date: August 2025
Significance: Bihula Festival, mainly celebrated in Bhagalpur, is based on a popular folk tale where a devoted wife, Bihula, revives her husband through her unwavering faith.
Key Rituals:
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Devotional songs and storytelling sessions.
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Folk plays enacting the legend of Bihula and Mansa Devi.
Why Visit Bihar During Festival Season?
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Experience rich cultural heritage: Bihar’s festivals offer deep insights into its traditions and customs.
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Spiritual awakening: Many festivals in Bihar have a religious and spiritual significance.
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Authentic cuisine: Enjoy delicious festival-specific delicacies.
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Vibrant celebrations: Colorful processions, music, and dance make these festivals a grand spectacle.
Conclusion
The famous festivals in Bihar offer a unique opportunity to explore the state’s cultural richness and spiritual significance. From the grandeur of Chhath Puja to the vibrant Sonepur Mela, every festival has its own charm and significance. Plan your visit with Adotrip to experience the true essence of Bihar’s festive spirit.
Whether you are a traveler, history enthusiast, or devotee, these festivals in Bihar 2025 will provide unforgettable experiences filled with joy, devotion, and tradition.
