The heritage cities host spectacular annual festivals that draw thousands of participants.
* **Hampi Utsav (Vijaya Utsav):** Usually held in January or February, this massive cultural festival features classical dance, music, drama, puppet shows, and fireworks, set against the illuminated backdrop of the ancient ruins. * **Purandara Dasa Aradhana:** A classical music festival held annually in Hampi to honour the saint-composer Purandara Dasa, often called the father of Carnatic music. * **Virupaksha Car Festival:** A major religious event where the colossal wooden chariot of the Virupaksha Temple is pulled through the streets by devotees. * **Chalukya Utsava:** A cultural festival celebrating the art and heritage of the Chalukya dynasty, held in Badami and Pattadakal.