The month of December rings in a time of festivities and celebrations. From local traditions to global festivities, India sees a culturally vibrant and diverse celebration in the month of December, a reflection of the country's vast tapestry of traditions and religions. Alongside Christmas, which is celebrated with joy and fervor across various communities, India also observes important national days that reflect its rich history. These include days dedicated to commemorations and celebrations unique to the Indian calendar. Finally, the month comes to an end with New Year ’s Eve celebrations around the country.
In this article, we give you a list of special days in December 2023 along with a brief background on the day’s significance. This calendar serves as a window into India's 2023 December calendar, showcasing how traditional Indian festivals coexist with global celebrations, creating a unique blend of cultural harmony and festivity. Finally, we tell you how you can make the most of long weekends and take a trip to your favourite travel destination this month.
Important days in December 2023: An overview
1. Beginning of December
The month begins on a note of spirituality, as many communities engage in local celebrations and rituals. One of the most prominent festivals in early December is the Feast of St. Francis Xavier in Goa, a testament to India's rich Christian heritage. This feast, held in honour of the patron saint of Goa, transforms the state into a hub of religious fervour and cultural activities.
2. Mid of the month
Mid-December, while relatively quiet, is a time for preparation and anticipation for the festive season ahead. This lull allows for reflection on the year gone by and planning for the new year.
As the month progresses, the festive mood intensifies with Christmas, a national holiday celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. Churches are adorned with lights and decorations, and the air is filled with the melody of carols. It's a time for community, charity, and joyous celebrations, transcending religious boundaries.
3. End of the month
The year concludes with New Year's Eve, one of the most important days in December 2023 and a globally recognized event celebrated with much gusto in India. Major cities host vibrant parties, fireworks, and events, drawing people from all walks of life to welcome the new year with hope and jubilation.
List of the holidays in the December 2023 calendar
Here is the list of important holidays in India in December 2023.
1. Indigenous Faith Day (1 December 2023 - Friday, Arunachal Pradesh)
In the serene hills of Arunachal Pradesh, Indigenous Faith Day is observed to honour and uphold the region's native beliefs and customs. This day is a vibrant display of local traditions, languages, and rituals, embodying the unique cultural heritage of the area.
2. Feast of St. Francis Xavier (3 December 2023 - Sunday, Goa)
The Feast of St. Francis Xavier in Goa is a day imbued with religious fervour. Devotees gather to pay homage to St. Francis Xavier, offering prayers, candles, and flowers, culminating in a grand feast. This day reflects the profound religious and cultural roots of Goa.
3. Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah Jayanti (5 December 2023 - Tuesday, Jammu and Kashmir)
Marking the birthday of Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, a pivotal political figure in Jammu and Kashmir, this day is a remembrance of his contributions and legacy as the region's first elected Prime Minister.
4. Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma (12 December 2023 - Tuesday, Meghalaya)
In Meghalaya, this day commemorates the valour of Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma, a Garo Warrior and a freedom fighter against British colonialism. His legacy is a symbol of resistance and courage in Northeast India.
5. Death Anniversary of U SoSo Tham & Guru Ghasidas Jayanti (18 December 2023 - Monday, Meghalaya and Chhattisgarh)
U SoSo Tham, a luminary poet from Meghalaya, is remembered on this day. His contributions to Khasi literature are invaluable. Simultaneously, in Chhattisgarh, Guru Ghasidas Jayanti celebrates the birth of Guru Ghasidas, the founder of the Satnam sect in Hinduism.
6. Goa Liberation Day (19 December 2023 - Tuesday, Goa)
This day marks Goa's liberation from Portuguese rule, celebrated with patriotic zeal. Torchlight processions converge at Azad Maidan, symbolizing the unity and freedom of the state.
7. Christmas Eve & Christmas Day (24-25 December 2023 - Sunday & Monday, Across India)
Christmas festivities spread across India, with the exchange of gifts, church visits, and family gatherings. These days are a blend of religious significance and universal joy.
8. Shaheed Udham Singh Jayanti (26 December 2023 - Tuesday, Haryana and Punjab)
This day honours the birth of Udham Singh, a revolutionary who played a crucial role in India's freedom struggle, particularly remembered for avenging the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
9. Tamu Losar & U Kiang Nangbah (30 December 2023 - Saturday, Sikkim and Meghalaya)
Tamu Losar marks the Gurung New Year, celebrated with traditional attire, gift exchanges, and dancing. In Meghalaya, the day is dedicated to U Kiang Nangbah, a freedom fighter who led an uprising against British colonialism.
10. New Year's Eve (31 December 2023 - Sunday, Across India)
The final day of the year is a global celebration, with parties, meals, and fireworks, marking the conclusion of one year and the anticipation of the next.
How can you club the special days in December 2023 for a long weekend vacation?
An extended weekend awaits from 22nd to 25th December, making it an ideal time for travel and relaxation. You can club these holidays to make an outstation travel plan or simply relax at home.
22 December – Friday – Take a leave from work
23 December – Saturday – Weekly off
24 December – Sunday – Weekly off
25 December – Monday – Christmas Day
Parting Words
Special days in December 2023 are in plenty, showcasing India's rich culture and history. Each day is like a chapter in a storybook, filled with unique traditions and celebrations. In this way, December in India becomes a diverse collection of festive experiences, each offering a glimpse into the country's heritage and way of life.
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11 December 2023
5 mins read
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