Onam School Holidays 2025: When Kerala Schools Are Closed for the Harvest Festival

Onam is one of Kerala’s most vibrant and awaited festivals, celebrated with grandeur, delicious feasts, and cultural traditions that bring communities together. In 2025, the Onam Holiday for Kerala Schools will mark a special time when classrooms will close, and students can immerse themselves in the joy of the season.

From flower carpets to boat races, the celebrations will fill every street and household, making the Onam School Holiday Kerala not just a break from studies but also a moment to reconnect with heritage.

Onam School Holidays 2025: When Kerala Schools Are Closed for the Harvest Festival

Why Onam Is Special for Students and Families

Onam is not just a festival—it’s an experience that blends tradition, community spirit, and cultural pride. For school students, it’s a time to:

  • Participate in cultural events such as Thiruvathira dance and Pookalam competitions

  • Spend quality time with family during the Onasadya (grand feast)

  • Watch or join thrilling Vallam Kali (boat races)

  • Learn about Kerala’s legendary King Mahabali and the stories behind Onam

Onam School Holiday Dates in 2025 – Kerala Schools Calendar

While Onam celebrations last for 10 days, schools in Kerala usually declare holidays around Thiruvonam, the festival’s main day. Here’s the expected holiday schedule for 2025:

Date Day Occasion
4 September Thursday Uthradam (Onam Eve)
5 September Friday Thiruvonam (Main Festival Day)
6 September Saturday Chathayam (Post-Onam Celebration)
7 September Sunday Weekend Holiday

Note: Schools may adjust the holiday duration based on local schedules, but most will remain closed from 4 to 7 September 2025.

How the Onam Holiday for Kerala Schools Boosts Cultural Learning

Apart from relaxation, this holiday gives students a chance to experience:

  • Traditional arts and crafts – making floral rangolis (Pookalams)

  • Kerala’s folk music and dance – including Pulikali (tiger dance) and Thiruvathira

  • Community involvement – helping with Onam feasts and local events

  • Sports and games – such as tug-of-war, archery, and boat races

This hands-on cultural exposure is something textbooks can’t teach.

Travel and Tourism During Onam

With schools closed, many families plan trips to scenic spots across Kerala. Popular destinations during the Onam School Holiday Kerala include:

  • Alleppey & Kumarakom – for serene backwater cruises

  • Thrissur – for vibrant cultural performances

  • Kochi – for a mix of modern celebrations and traditional events

  • Munnar & Wayanad – for peaceful nature retreats

FAQs on Onam School Holidays 2025

Q1: How many days are schools closed for Onam in Kerala in 2025?

Most schools will be closed for around 3–4 days, from 4 to 7 September 2025, depending on the institution’s schedule.

Q2: Is the Onam Holiday for Kerala Schools the same across all districts?

While the main days like Thiruvonam are common holidays, some districts may have slight variations.

Q3: Do colleges in Kerala also close for Onam?

Yes, most colleges in Kerala also close during the main Onam days, but the duration can vary.

Q4: Can tourists enjoy school cultural programs during Onam?

Yes! Many schools and communities organize open events where visitors can watch traditional performances.

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