The Fairs and Festivals in Himachal Pradesh are the time for the people of the state to take a break from their tough and harsh schedule to make their life hospitable in the hilly terrain. The Fairs and Festivals in Himachal Pradesh are associated with religion, trade, season and sports. The people of Himachal Pradesh worship around 2000 deities and quite a number of fairs and festivals are commemorated for these deities. Out of a long list of Fairs and Festivals in Himachal Pradesh, some of the festivals are celebrated since time immemorial and some are of recent inclusion. These Fairs and Festivals in Himachal Pradesh are the best way to get close to the local life of the state. They are the best medium to know the culture, way of life, customs, beliefs and traditions of the people of Himachal Pradesh.
Himachal Pradesh Fairs
The colorful fairs of Himachal Pradesh reflect its rich traditional and cultural heritage. Mid-February sees a weeklong Winter Sports Festival at Manali. It is around this time only that Una fair, known as the Baba Barbhang Singh Mela, is organized in the honor of the saint 'Baba Barbhang Singh'. Come summer season and it is the time for the 'Summer Festival' of Shimla, which offers flower show, exhibitions, unique fashion shows, etc. Harvest fairs of Himachal Pradesh, such as Lavi Fair of Rampur and Minjar Fair of Chamba are also quite popular amongst tourists.
Himachal Pradesh Festivals
The people of Himachal Pradesh love to feast, dance and celebrate everyday of their lives. The numerous fairs and festivals of the state and their elaborate rituals and traditions provide them the perfect opportunities to do so. The customs, costumes, music and dances of these festivals tell us much about the religious fervor, spirituality and gaiety of its natives. Some of the major festivals of Himachal Pradesh include Lohri or Maghi Festival, Losar Festival, Halda Festival, Basant Panchami, Dusshera, etc.
