Arthunkal Perunnal is an annual feast celebrated at St. Andrew's Basilica in Arthunkal, located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. This prominent event, held every January, draws thousands of devotees from across the state who come to participate in the festivities dedicated to St. Sebastian. The festival runs from January 10th to 27th, with various rituals and ceremonies taking place throughout the period.

The history of St. Andrew’s Basilica dates back to 1581 when it was initially constructed of wood. Later, in 1597, it was reconstructed with stone under the guidance of Fr. Giacomo Fenicio, who is often called the Apostle of Arthunkal. The basilica gained fame when a miraculous statue of St. Sebastian was brought from Italy in 1647. St. Sebastian, a Roman soldier who was martyred for his Christian faith, is revered for his healing powers, particularly against diseases like smallpox and cholera.

The highlight of the Arthunkal Perunnal is the ceremonial procession of the statue of St. Sebastian to the beach and back to the basilica. On the final day of the feast, devotees demonstrate their piety by crawling on their knees from the beach to the basilica. This act of devotion, known as 'nercha,' is performed by many as a way of seeking blessings and fulfilling vows. The procession, accompanied by traditional music and chants, creates a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

The festival begins with a flag hoisting ceremony on January 10th, marking the official start of the celebrations. Throughout the festival, various religious activities such as special prayers, masses, and retreats are conducted. The main feast day on January 20th witnesses a massive turnout, with thousands of devotees participating in the rituals and processions. Another significant day is the 'Ettam Perunnal' on January 27th, which also draws large crowds.

During the procession on January 20th, eagles are often seen hovering over the statue of St. Sebastian, recalling the legend of how eagles cared for the wounded saint. This sight adds to the mystical and reverential aura of the event.

Arthunkal Perunnal is not just a local event; it is a significant religious festival that attracts pilgrims from various parts of India and beyond. The festival is a testament to the deep-rooted faith and traditions of the Christian community in Kerala, as well as the communal harmony, as people from different religions also participate in the celebrations. Devotees from the Hindu community, particularly those returning from the pilgrimage to Sabarimala, often visit St. Andrew's Basilica to pay homage to St. Sebastian. Sabarimala pilgrims have a unique tradition of visiting Arthunkal Basilica to wear their sacred Mala (garland) as a part of their pilgrimage ritual. This ceremony marks the beginning of their devout journey to Sabarimala.

Arthunkal Perunnal at St. Andrew's Basilica also features the offering of gold and silver limbs to the basilica, symbolizing the healing miracles attributed to St. Sebastian. The festive atmosphere is further enriched by various cultural programs and activities that take place in and around the basilica.