Blog

Happy Holi! Holi is a spring festival celebrated throughout India, especially by people who practice Hinduism. Holi is held on the last full moon during the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna, so the exact day of the celebration changes every year. This year, Holi falls on March 14th. This ancient tradition marks the end of winter and honors the triumph of good over evil. Holi is also a day of unity, when everyone is to be treated as an equal. Holi has been celebrated in India for hundreds of years! Several stories and legends explain the festival’s origin, including Prahlada’s devotion to Vishnu and the love between Krishna and Radha (Britannica Kids: Holi).

Known as the Festival of Colors, those who celebrate light bonfires, throw colorful powder (called gulal) and water, eat sweets, and dance to traditional folk music (National Geographic Kids: Holi). Each of the colored powders that people throw has a meaning! Red symbolizes love and green represents spring and new beginnings. After the color festivities are over, people often visit friends and family to exchange gifts and eat together. 

Below are some of our resources for children and families to learn more about Holi, Hindu religion and culture, and India!