SARAS Aajeevika Mela, Delhi
A month long national fair of rural crafts, handlooms and regional food at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi, from 1 to 28 February 2027.
Feb 01–28, 2027
Delhi, Delhi
About Delhi
Overview
The heart of India, Delhi is where history meets modernity. From the magnificent Red Fort and Qutub Minar to bustling markets and world-class restaurants. Experience Mughal architecture at Humayun's Tomb, savor incredible street food, explore vibrant art scene, and witness the dynamic energy of India's capital city.
Cities in Delhi
1 place to explore
Upcoming events in Delhi
Festivals and celebrations across the state
Delhi Comic Con
Two days of comics, cosplay, artist alley stalls and guest panels at NSIC Exhibition Grounds, Okhla, on 5 and 6 December 2026. Tickets from ₹1,199.
5th to 6th December 2026
Delhi, Delhi
India International Trade Fair (IITF)
The 45th India International Trade Fair fills the halls of Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan from 13 to 27 November 2026, with state pavilions, handicrafts, food and consumer goods from across India and abroad.
Nov 13–27, 2026
Delhi, Delhi
Beating Retreat Ceremony
The Beating Retreat Ceremony is a grand military tradition that marks the formal conclusion of Republic Day celebrations in India. Held every year on 29 January at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi, the ceremony features massed bands of the Indian Armed Forces performing patriotic tunes as the sun sets. With synchronized marches, soulful music, and the iconic retreat of troops, it symbolizes discipline, honor, and the nation’s rich military heritage, ending with the lowering of the national flag in a dignified atmosphere.
Jan 29, 2027
Delhi, Delhi
India Art Fair
India Art Festival (IAF) is a contemporary art fair that brings together artists, galleries, and art lovers from across the country. Showcasing a vibrant mix of paintings, sculptures, photography, digital art, and installations, the festival provides a platform for both emerging and established artists to present their work. Held in major Indian cities, India Art Festival celebrates creativity, encourages direct interaction between artists and audiences, and promotes the growing culture of modern and contemporary art in India.
Feb 04–07, 2027
Delhi, Delhi
New Delhi World Book Fair
The world’s largest B2C book fair is back! This January, the literary world descends upon the iconic **Bharat Mandapam** at Pragati Maidan. Whether you are a dedicated bibliophile, a student, or looking for a family outing, the **New Delhi World Book Fair (NDWBF)** offers an unforgettable journey through books, culture, and technology. For the 2026 edition, the National Book Trust made entry **completely free** for all visitors to encourage a nationwide reading culture. Entry details for 2027 are yet to be announced. --- ### **Essential Visitor Guide** | Detail | 2027 Information | | :--- | :--- | | **Dates** | **January 16 to January 24, 2027** | | **General Timings** | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | | **Location** | **Halls 2–6, Bharat Mandapam**, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi | | **Nearest Metro** | **Supreme Court Station** (Blue Line) — Use Gate No. 3 | | **Entry Pricing** | To be announced (free in 2026) | --- ### **Highlights from the 2026 Edition** * **Theme Pavilion: Valour & Wisdom @75:** The 2026 core narrative paid tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. Explore an immersive 1,000 sq. meter pavilion featuring over 500 books on military history, alongside life-sized replicas of the **Arjun Tank**, **INS Vikrant**, and **LCA Tejas**. * **Global Literary Hub:** Meet over 1,000 publishers from **35+ countries**. The **State of Qatar** was the Guest of Honour, and **Spain** was the Focus Country, bringing a vibrant mix of international authors and cultural traditions. * **Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya:** Experience the future of reading at the digital library zone. Get instant access to over **6,000 free eBooks** across 23+ languages via digital kiosks and QR-code downloads. * **Kidz Express (Hall 6):** A dedicated paradise for young readers! Featuring storytelling sessions, theatre workshops, and the **Child Authors’ Corner**, it’s the perfect spot to inspire the next generation of writers. * **Festival of Festivals 3.0:** A "melting pot" of India’s leading literary platforms. Host to over 600 sessions and 1,000 speakers, including celebrities like **Piyush Mishra, Smriti Irani, and Ricky Kej**. --- ### **Pro-Tips for Your Visit** * **Seamless Transit:** Parking at Bharat Mandapam is extremely limited. We highly recommend using the **Delhi Metro**. From Supreme Court Station (Gate 3), head to **Gate No. 10** of the venue, where **free shuttle vans** will take you directly to the hall entrances. * **Author Interactions:** Check the daily schedule for **Lekhak Manch** and the **Authors’ Corner**. These are the best spots for live book launches and one-on-one dialogues with your favorite writers. * **Evening Cultural Shows:** Don't leave as soon as you finish shopping! In 2026, evenings featured performances by **Armed Forces bands**, folk musicians, and poetry recitals from the Rekhta Foundation. * **Sturdy Bags & Shoes:** You will likely walk several kilometers across Halls 2–6. Wear comfortable sneakers and bring a backpack or a trolley bag—you’ll definitely need it for your book haul!
Jan 16–24, 2027
Delhi, Delhi
Delhi Kite Festival
Delhi Kite Festival (Patang Utsav) is organised by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in connection with Makar Sankranti at Baansera Park, near Sarai Kale Khan on the Yamuna floodplains in New Delhi. The 2027 edition, the International Kite Festival Patang Utsav, is tentatively scheduled for 15 to 17 January 2027. DDA plans at least 100 kite flyers, including a minimum of 40 international and 60 national participants, with categories such as traditional fighting kites, giant display kites, 3D inflatable kites and LED night flying, along with kite making workshops and student activities. Set in a large eco-themed bamboo park, the Delhi Kite Festival brings together locals and visitors to celebrate the joy of kite flying, seasonal change and cultural unity in a festive open-air setting.
Jan 15–17, 2027Tentative
Delhi, Delhi
Holi
Holi is a major Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, symbolizing the arrival of spring, renewal, and the victory of good over evil. The festival begins with Holika Dahan, a ritual bonfire lit the night before Holi that represents the burning of negativity and the triumph of devotion and faith. The following day, known as Rangwali Holi, is marked by people playing with colors (gulal), water, music, and dance, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere. Holi also carries deep cultural and spiritual significance, associated with legends of Lord Krishna and Radha, reflecting love, playfulness, and unity. Traditional sweets like gujiya, malpua, and festive drinks such as thandai are prepared and shared. Beyond celebration, Holi promotes forgiveness, social harmony, and togetherness, as people forget past differences and come together in joy and celebration.
Mar 22, 2027
Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
Vasant Panchami
Vasant Panchami marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated with devotion and joy across India. Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom, learning, and arts, the day holds special significance for students and artists. People wear yellow attire, symbolising energy, knowledge, and prosperity. Temples and homes host Saraswati Puja, seeking blessings for intellect and creativity. The festival also signals the blooming of mustard fields and a change in season. Vasant Panchami is observed on the fifth day of the Hindu month of Magha.
Feb 11, 2027
Delhi, Delhi
Republic Day Parade
Republic Day, celebrated every year on 26 January, marks the day India’s Constitution came into effect in 1950, transforming the nation into a sovereign republic. The day honors India’s democratic values, freedom, and unity. The grand parade held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi showcases the country’s cultural diversity, military strength, and technological progress. Across India, schools, institutions, and communities celebrate with flag hoisting, patriotic performances, and tributes to national heroes. Republic Day stands as a powerful reminder of India’s journey, its rich heritage, and its commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Jan 26, 2027
Delhi, Delhi
Saras Food Festival
The Saras Food Festival is a national culinary fair organised under the **National Rural Livelihoods Mission** to showcase regional cuisines prepared by women from Self-Help Groups across India. The festival brings together dozens of stalls run by rural women entrepreneurs, offering traditional dishes from nearly every state. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of authentic foods - from **North-eastern snacks** and **Himalayan specialties** to biryanis, coastal flavours, millet dishes, and regional sweets. Live cooking counters allow guests to watch and taste freshly prepared local recipes. Alongside food, the festival also features organic products, homemade spices, pickles, and hand-crafted items. The event celebrates India’s culinary diversity while promoting rural entrepreneurship. It provides an important platform for women to showcase their cooking skills and grow their small businesses. Through food, craft, and culture, Saras Food Festival highlights the richness of India’s villages and empowers women-led enterprises nationwide.
Nov 21, 2026–Dec 08, 2026
Delhi, Delhi
National Street Food Festival
NASVI's 16th National Street Food Festival brings street food vendors from across India to Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi, from 18 to 20 December 2026.
Dec 18–20, 2026
Delhi, Delhi