Kerala’s calendar is vibrant, dictated by harvest seasons, religious cycles, and cultural celebrations.
* **Onam:** The state's biggest festival, celebrating the mythical King Mahabali and the rice harvest. It features *Pookkalam* (floral carpets), the Sadya feast, boat races, and *Pulikali* (tiger dance). * **Thrissur Pooram:** Held in Thrissur, this is a colossal temple festival known for its grand procession of caparisoned elephants and deafening, rhythmic percussion ensembles. * **Vishu:** The astronomical New Year of the state, famous for the *Vishu Kani* (an auspicious arrangement viewed first thing in the morning) and giving of tokens of money. * **International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK):** Held annually in Trivandrum, it is one of the most significant and culturally engaged film festivals in India.
