Onam is a traditional harvest festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala. It's one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in the region. The festival usually falls in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August-September) and lasts for around ten days.

Here are some general details about how Onam is typically celebrated:


Pookalam: Pookalam, also known as the floral carpet, is a significant part of Onam celebrations. Intricate and colorful floral designs are made on the ground, usually in front of the entrance of homes, using various types of flowers.

Onam Sadya: The traditional Onam feast, known as Onam Sadya, is a grand vegetarian meal served on banana leaves. It includes a variety of dishes like rice, sambar, avial, thorans (vegetable stir-fries), pickles, and payasam (a sweet dessert). The meal is an essential part of the festival, and people often gather with their families to enjoy it.


Vallam Kali (Boat Race): Boat races, especially the snake boat races, are a major attraction during Onam. Colorfully decorated boats with rowers singing traditional boat songs participate in these races.

Pulikali: Pulikali, also known as the Tiger Dance, is a folk art form where performers paint themselves as tigers and hunters. They dance through the streets to entertain and engage the spectators.


Thiruvathira Kali: This is a traditional dance performed by women on the day of Thiruvathira in the Malayalam month of Dhanu (December-January). It involves graceful movements and is usually performed in a group.


Onathappan: People create small shrines or statues called Onathappan or Thrikkakara Appan during Onam. These are often installed in homes as a symbol of King Mahabali.

Traditional Attire: People wear traditional Kerala attire like Kasavu sarees and dhotis during the festival.


Cultural Programs: Various cultural events, including traditional dances, music performances, and games, are organized during the festival to celebrate the spirit of Onam.


Please note that the specific celebrations and customs can vary from year to year and from one region to another within Kerala. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about Onam 2023, I recommend checking with reliable sources or contacting local authorities in Kerala.