Upcoming Events in Rajasthan 2026: Festivals, Fairs & Cultural Extravaganzas
Rajasthan, the land of royals, is synonymous with grandeur, tradition, and vibrant cultural celebrations. Every year, the state comes alive with spectacular festivals that attract travelers from across India and around the world. Events in Rajasthan 2026 promise an unforgettable blend of heritage, music, dance, folk art, and age-old traditions. From the majestic Marwar Festival in Jodhpur to the colorful and lively Pushkar Fair, the state’s festival calendar is filled with experiences that reflect the true spirit of Rajasthan.
If you’re planning a trip to Rajasthan in 2026, this comprehensive guide highlights the must-attend festivals and cultural events across the state. To make your journey smooth and stress-free, reliable cab and car rental services by JCS Cab & Car Rental Service, Jodhpur are available, ensuring comfortable travel between destinations while you enjoy the best Events in Rajasthan 2026 with complete peace of mind.
If you're planning a trip to Rajasthan in 2026, here’s a comprehensive list of the must-attend events, along with reliable cab and car rental services from JCS Cab & Car Rental Service Jodhpur to ensure a hassle-free experience.
January 2026: Kickstart the Year with Vibrant Festivals
| Get ready for Pushkar Fair 2025! Find dates, schedules, and must-see events. Don’t miss this world-famous camel fair and cultural fest. |
Camel Festival – Bikaner
Date: January 9-11, 2026
Location: Bikaner
Highlights: Camel races, folk music, dance performances, and vibrant processions.
The Bikaner Camel Festival is a one-of-a-kind event dedicated to Rajasthan’s iconic camels. The festival features camel races, beauty pageants, and traditional Rajasthani performances. It’s a perfect place to witness the desert culture in its full glory
International Kite Festival: Jaipur/Ajmer
Date: January 14, 2026
Location: Jaipur \Ajmer
Highlights: Colorful kites fill the sky as people celebrate Makar Sankranti.
One of the most visually stunning festivals in Rajasthan, the Jaipur Kite Festival sees thousands of kites soaring over the Pink City. The entire city turns into a lively playground where people compete to cut down each other’s kites.
February 2025: A Celebration of Literature, Music & Desert Life
Discover the vibrant Rajasthan International Folk Festival 2025 with mesmerizing music, dance, and cultural performances. Plan your visit now!
Mahashivratri Celebrations in Rajasthan
Date: February 15th 2026
Location: Various Temples Across Rajasthan
Highlights: Grand temple processions, devotional songs, fasting, Rudrabhishek rituals, and cultural events.
Mahashivratri is one of the most sacred Hindu festivals, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer and transformer in the Hindu trinity. Celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across India, Rajasthan is no exception. The state, known for its rich cultural heritage and grand temples, observes Mahashivratri with spectacular processions, temple rituals, and spiritual fervor.
Udaipur World Music Festival
Date: February 2026
Location: Udaipur
Highlights: International and Indian music performances by renowned artists.
The Udaipur World Music Festival is a grand celebration of music, featuring artists from across the globe. Set in the picturesque city of Udaipur, known for its lakes and palaces, the festival offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary music genres. It’s an opportunity to experience the harmonious fusion of cultures in a city that epitomizes romance and beauty.
Desert Festival – Jaisalmer
Date: February 10-12, 2026
Location: Jaisalmer
Highlights: Folk performances, camel races, and desert crafts.
The Desert Festival, also known as Maru Mahotsav, is a three-day extravaganza set against the mesmerizing backdrop of the Thar Desert in Jaisalmer. This festival celebrates the rich folklore and traditions of Rajasthan with events such as camel races, turban-tying competitions, and folk music performances. Visitors can witness the vibrant culture of the region and participate in various activities that highlight the desert’s unique charm.
March 2026: The Colors of Rajasthan
Braj Holi Festival – Bharatpur
Date: March 9-10, 2026
Location: Bharatpur
Highlights: Traditional Raslila performances and Holi celebrations.
The Braj region, encompassing Bharatpur, celebrates Holi with unmatched enthusiasm. Known as the festival of colors, Holi in Braj includes traditional Raslila performances depicting the life of Lord Krishna, along with the playful throwing of colors. The atmosphere is electric, filled with music, dance, and a sense of community.
Dhulandi (Holi) Festival – Jaipur
Date: March 14, 2025
Location: Jaipur
Highlights: Jaipur’s grand Holi celebration with colors and cultural events.
The Pink City turns even more colorful with its extravagant Holi celebrations, featuring music, dance, and cultural performances.
Gangaur Fair – Jaipur
Date: March 31 – April 1, 2026
Location: Jaipur/Udaipur
Highlights: Devotional processions dedicated to Goddess Gauri.
Gangaur is one of Rajasthan’s most significant festivals, dedicated to Goddess Gauri, symbolizing marital bliss. The fair includes processions of beautifully adorned idols, traditional songs, and dances. It’s a vibrant display of the state’s cultural richness and offers a deep dive into its age-old traditions.
April - August 2026: Monsoon Festivities
Teej Festival – Jaipur
Date: July 27-28, 2026
Location: Jaipur
Highlights: Women dressed in green, swings, and processions.
The Teej Festival celebrates the monsoon season and the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Women dress in vibrant attire, apply henna, and participate in processions carrying the idol of Goddess Teej. The festival is marked by traditional songs, dances, and a sense of joy that permeates the city.
Kajli Teej Festival – Bundi
Date: August 12-13, 2025
Location: Bundi
Highlights: Traditional songs, dances, and a grand procession.
Distinct from the Teej Festival in Jaipur, the Kajli Teej in Bundi has its unique charm. The festival includes a procession of the goddess, cultural performances, and local fairs. The town’s picturesque setting adds to the allure, making it a must-visit event.
October - December 2025: The Grand Finale
Marwar Festival – Jodhpur
Date: October 16-17, 2026
Location: Jodhpur
Highlights: Folk music, dance, and camel shows.
Coinciding with Gangaur, the Mewar Festival in Udaipur marks the advent of spring. The city comes alive with cultural events, including music, dance, and processions. The highlight is the procession of adorned idols taken to Lake Pichola, culminating in a mesmerizing ceremony. The festival reflects the spirit of Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
Pushkar Fair
Date: November 17-24, 2026
Location: Pushkar
Highlights: Camel trading, religious rituals, and cultural programs.
The Pushkar Fair, also known as the Pushkar Camel Fair or Pushkar Mela, is one of the most spectacular and iconic events in India. Held annually in the holy town of Pushkar, Rajasthan, this week-long festival is renowned for its vibrant mix of religious devotion, cultural performances, livestock trading, and grand festivities.
Kumbhalgarh Festival – Rajsamand
Date: December 1–3, 2026
Location: Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajsamand
Highlights: Folk music & dance performances, heritage processions, art exhibitions, light & sound shows, and traditional Rajasthani cuisine.
Set against the majestic backdrop of Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kumbhalgarh Festival is a vibrant cultural celebration that brings Rajasthan’s royal legacy to life. Held in early December, the festival features captivating folk performances, colorful processions, and stunning illumination of the fort walls. It is an ideal event for travelers seeking history, culture, and authentic Rajasthani traditions in one unforgettable experience.
