December art festivals in India offer a rare opportunity to experience the country’s creative energy at its most vibrant. From Kerala’s coastal charm to Goa’s cultural buzz, from Bengaluru’s art fair spirit to Mumbai’s conceptual exhibitions, every region has something unique to offer. December’s festivals invite you to slow down, wander through galleries, engage with artists, and rediscover India’s creative soul.
Whether you’re an art lover, a traveller, a student, or simply someone curious about culture, these festivals offer the perfect reason to step outdoors and experience India through the eyes of its artists.
Let’s take a warm, personal journey across India’s most exciting art festivals happening right now.
1. Kochi-Muziris Biennale
Kochi, Kerala
There’s something truly enchanting about Fort Kochi during the Biennale. The streets feel like they’re breathing art – murals on old colonial walls, installations tucked into warehouses, and sound pieces echoing through heritage spaces.
The 6th edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale brings together artists from over 25 countries, transforming the coastal town into a living, evolving museum. Every corner holds a story, every artwork opens a new world, and the atmosphere is wonderfully immersive.
Location: Fort Kochi, Kerala
Duration: Ongoing until March 2026
2. Serendipity Arts Festival
Panjim, Goa
Goa may be known for its beaches, but in December, Panjim becomes a vibrant cultural playground. The Serendipity Arts Festival is one of the most dynamic, multidisciplinary art events in South Asia — bringing together visual arts, music, theatre, photography, culinary arts, crafts, and design.
It is spread across riverfront promenades, historic buildings, and open-air venues, creating a uniquely festive atmosphere. If you love discovering fresh artistic voices in a lively, colourful environment, this is the place to be.
Location: Panjim, Goa
Dates: 12–21 December 2025
3. India Art Festival
Bengaluru, Karnataka
If you enjoy discovering emerging artists and exploring diverse artworks under one roof, the India Art Festival in Bengaluru is a must-visit. Held at the iconic Palace Grounds, this fair features paintings, sculptures, mixed-media works, and contemporary art from across India.
It’s a wonderful space to meet artists, browse galleries, and soak in the sheer variety of India’s creative landscape.
Location: Palace Grounds, Bengaluru
Dates: 12–14 December 2025
4. “Salt Lines: Hylozoic/Desires”
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Mumbai’s Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum is currently hosting a poetic and thought-provoking exhibition titled Salt Lines, part of the India Art Fair’s extended programming. Artists Himali Singh Soin and David Soin Tappeser explore ecology, sound, performance, and storytelling in a deeply atmospheric show.
It’s a quieter, reflective experience — beautifully curated and perfect for those who enjoy conceptual and experimental art.
Location: Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Mumbai
Duration: Until 8 February 2026
5. Golconda Art Festival and HYD.ART 2025
Hyderabad, Telangana
Held at the historic Golconda Fort, this festival blends heritage with contemporary art in a setting that is nothing short of breathtaking. The event includes local art showcases, craft traditions, and cultural performances — all framed by the majestic stone architecture of the fort.
Location: Golconda Fort, Hyderabad
Date: 12 December 2025
HYD.ART 2025 is one of Hyderabad’s most energetic art events — featuring 200+ artists, thematic exhibitions, workshops, talks, and engaging public sessions. The festival brings together traditional, modern, and contemporary art practices in a way that feels both fresh and rooted. It also serves as a key platform for discovering emerging and established artists, making HYD.ART 2025 one of the most significant contemporary art festivals in Hyderabad and India’s growing art calendar.
Location: Hyderabad
Dates: 19–21 December 2025