Festa do Povo: A Celebration of Goan Cuisine and Music by the People of Panjim

Festa do Povo: A Celebration of Goan Cuisine and Music by the People of Panjim

~ Festa do Povo will be held on January 24 & 25, at the mangrove-lined pedestrian spine at Patto Plaza.

~ The two-day event promises vibrant musical performances and culinary diversity celebrating Goa.

Panaji, January 2026 — Traditional and Goa-inspired food and music will take centre stage at the third edition of the popular community festival, Festa do Povo, which returns to Panaji on January 24 and 25.

Festa do Povo offers an exciting culinary journey, featuring food stalls by local home chefs and established restaurants from the city, reflecting Goa’s rich culinary diversity alongside international flavours prepared by accredited Goan chefs. Adding to the celebration is a dedicated Feni Bridge Bar and beverage stations, highlighting local drinks and spirits.

Fundamentally a people’s festival that embodies the philosophy of “of the people, by the people, and for the people, Festa do Povo will be held at the mangrove-lined pedestrian spine at Patto Plaza, with the objective of celebrating and promoting Goan culture, environment, heritage and camaraderie.

the two-day event promises vibrant musical performances, including the Kids Choir (Choir of Angels), a celebrated brass band, a jazz band, and headline performances by popular bands such as Purple Rain Band and Forefront Band. The festival will also feature traditional cultural displays, including a temple drum medley synonymous with Shigmo, a lamp dance (Divli dance) and captivating performances by the Vyomi Dance Troupe and Samba dancers.

Image 1: A Goan musician performs with a guitar  at a previous edition of Festa do Povo held at Patto Plaza.

Image 2:  A moment from last year’s Festa do Povo, where tradition met storytelling and Goa’s cultural rhythms came alive at Patto Plaza.