Kerala’s capital city, Thiruvananthapuram, is gearing up for a spectacular festive season with its much-anticipated flower festival, Vasantholsavam, scheduled to take place from December 24 to January 03 at the sprawling Kanakakunnu Palace grounds. Coinciding with the annual Light Festival, which transforms the city’s streets and heritage landmarks into glittering spectacles, these events promise to elevate the festive spirit for both residents and tourists.

The Tourism Minister Shri P. A. Mohamed Riyas announced that Vasantholsavam, combined with the New Year Lighting Festival, will enhance the city’s charm during Christmas and New Year’s Eve. The organizing committee for the event includes prominent figures such as the Minister for General Education and Labour Shri V. Sivankutty and the Minister for Food and Civil Supplies Shri G. R. Anil as Chief Patrons, with Shri Riyas as the Chairman. The committee also features MPs Dr Shashi Tharoor, Shri Adoor Prakash and Shri A. A. Rahim as Patrons, alongside district MLAs.

The execution of the event is being overseen by the Mayor Smt. Arya Rajendran as the Working Chairman; the Kerala Tourism Secretary Shri Biju K as the General Convenor; and the Kerala Tourism Director Smt. Sikha Surendran and the District Collector Smt. Anu Kumari as the Conveners.

This year’s Vasantholsavam and New Year Light Festival are particularly significant as they mark a major celebration after the cancellation of the Onam Week festivities due to the devastating landslides in Wayanad.  The global recognition that Thiruvananthapuram has won as one of the “World’s Trending Tourism Destinations” further enhances the city’s appeal during this festive period.

In preparation for these grand events, the Tourism Department, in collaboration with the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, has undertaken several beautification projects. These include the design-based upgrades of Manaveeyam Veedhi, EMS Bridge, and the Bakery Junction Flyover, along with the illumination of historic structures, collectively costing several crores of rupees.

Since its inception in 2022, the New Year Lighting Festival has become a trendsetting event, drawing widespread attention and praise. The Tourism Minister Shri Riyas urged the public not to miss this unique occasion, which has already become a highlight of the city’s annual calendar.

In addition to the visual extravaganza, Vasantholsavam will feature a range of activities, including competitions for plant nurseries and landscaping in various categories for individuals and organizations. The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) Thiruvananthapuram, has also invited tenders for stalls at the trade fair, amusement parks and food festival, in order to ensure a vibrant and diverse celebration for attendees.