
International Film Festival of India
India’s flagship international film festival in Goa.
Overview
11 places to explore
Festivals and celebrations across the state

India’s flagship international film festival in Goa.

Serendipity Arts Festival is a major multi-disciplinary arts festival held every December in **Panjim, Goa**, showcasing visual arts, music, dance, theatre, photography, crafts, and culinary arts. The festival transforms the city’s riverfronts and heritage spaces into vibrant cultural venues, featuring exhibitions, live performances, installations, workshops, and community events. Organized by the **Serendipity Arts Foundation**, it aims to make art accessible, inclusive, and engaging for all, while supporting both traditional and contemporary creative practices. It is one of India’s most diverse and immersive cultural festivals, drawing artists and visitors from across the world.

The Feast of St. Francis Xavier, celebrated every year on 3rd December, honors **St. Francis Xavier** - one of the most revered Christian missionaries and co-founder of the Jesuit Order. In Goa, the festival holds special significance, as his sacred relics are preserved at the **Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa**. Thousands of devotees from India and abroad gather for masses, novenas, prayers and processions leading up to the feast day. The atmosphere becomes festive with **illuminated churches, traditional music, long prayer** queues and a vibrant fair around the church complex. The celebration reflects St. Francis Xavier’s legacy of compassion, service and missionary work, making it one of Goa’s most important spiritual events.