The Edathua Perunnal is a grand annual festival celebrated at St. George's Church in Edathua, located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. This prominent event, held every year from April 27th to May 7th, draws thousands of devotees who come to participate in the festivities dedicated to St. George. The church, built in 1810 in European Gothic architectural style, stands as a testament to Kerala’s rich architectural heritage. 

The festival, also known as the Feast of St. George, begins with a ceremonious flag hoisting on April 27th, marking the official start of the celebrations. Throughout the festival, various religious activities such as special prayers, masses, and retreats are conducted. The highlight of the festival is the procession of the gold-decked statue of St. George, carried from the church to the nearby beach and back. This procession is accompanied by traditional music and chants, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

On the main festival days, May 6th and 7th, the statue of St. George is paraded around the church grounds by pilgrims from various parts of South India, including Tamil Nadu. The spacious grounds near the church transform into a bustling trade center, with vendors selling a variety of goods, adding to the festive atmosphere. Cultural performances, including traditional dances and music, are held throughout the festival, further enhancing the celebratory mood.

The tradition of Christianity in Edathua dates back to the early days of the religion in Kerala. Initially, the faithful from Edathua worshipped at the Niranam Church founded by St. Thomas, the Apostle. Later, they moved to the Champakulam Church established in 427 AD. With the advent of the Chempakassery regime at Ambalapuzha, many Christians migrated to Kuttanad from ancient Christian centers like Kuravilangadu and Kudamaloor. As the Christian population in Edathua grew, there arose a need for a local church, leading to the foundation of St. George's Church in 1810 with the canonical consent of Bishop Reymond.

St. George's Church is an architectural marvel, often compared to the medieval cathedrals of Europe. Its intricate design and historical significance make it a prominent landmark in Kerala. The church's construction began in 1810 and was completed with various expansions over the years, including the addition of the "cemetery church" in 1824 and further enhancements in 1839 and 1861.

The Edathua Perunnal is not just a local event; it is a significant cultural gathering that fosters community spirit and unity. It attracts lakhs of pilgrims from all over South India, including states like Tamil Nadu and even foreign countries in the past. The festival provides an opportunity for devotees to seek blessings, fulfill vows, and celebrate their faith in a communal setting. The firework displays and cultural performances held during the festival add to the grandeur of the event.