Being a land that boasts of umpteen waterbodies across its length and breadth, many of Kerala’s festivals are profoundly connected with its water resources. With 44 major rivers, many tributaries, backwaters, beaches and canals flowing through its heart, Kerala celebrates water festivals in a grand way. This rich tradition of Kerala is reflected in the water fests that Kozhikode proudly brings to the people. They are attended by many, both locally and from far and wide.
The third edition of Beypore International Water Fest, happening from December 26 to 29 of this year is a tapestry of culture and festivities. Embracing this majestic celebration, the city comes alive as a dynamic hub for diverse water sports, culinary feasts, and extravagant arts and music gatherings. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy pulse-raising water activities like white water kayaking, sit-on-top (SOT) kayaking, bamboo rafting, sailing regatta, country boat races, sea kayak races, angling, and wing foiling.
Perhaps the most famed water fest in Kozhikode is the Beypore Water Fest. It’s an entertainment and cultural extravaganza that is held in the port town with absolute grandeur. As a part of it, various cultural programmes and art events are organised in different parts, with primary focus on the events in river Chaliyar. Various games including traditional Kerala boat races and olympic aquatic events are held here. Another noted festival of this kind is the Malabar River Festival which is an international Kayaking competition held at Thusharagiri in the rivers of Iruvazhinjipuzha and Chalipuzha. Then there is the famous Kunhali Marakkar boat race that is annually held as a part of Kerala’s biggest festival season – Onam. There are several more smaller events that hare held with great pomp and splendour throughout the district.
