Mangaluru: As in previous years, the much-anticipated Karavali Utsava will commence on December 20, bringing with it a vibrant mix of culture, entertainment, sports and tourism-focused events across Dakshina Kannada district. The festival, organised by the district administration, will continue till January 31, 2026, offering residents and visitors an extended celebration coinciding with Christmas and New Year festivities.
Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. announced the detailed programme at a press conference held in Mangaluru on Thursday, stating that the Karavali Utsava has evolved into a major cultural platform showcasing the coastal region’s rich heritage while also promoting tourism and recreation.
Grand opening and extended celebrations
The main cultural and entertainment programmes of Karavali Utsava will be held at the Karavali Utsava Grounds in the city. The cultural programmes at the venue will be formally inaugurated on December 20. Nationally acclaimed Indian artists will perform a variety of programmes, including music, dance and other entertainment events, attracting large audiences every year.
The festival will continue till January 31, with colourful cultural, adventure and recreational activities being organised at different locations across the district. As part of the larger Karavali Utsava celebrations, the popular Pilikula Parba will be held at Pilikula from December 20 to January 4.
Renowned singers to headline musical evenings
Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. said that special musical evenings featuring well-known singers Kailash Kher and Vijay Prakash will be among the highlights of this year’s festival. These performances are expected to draw music lovers from across the district and neighbouring regions.
“The aim is to present high-quality cultural programmes that appeal to people of all age groups,” the Deputy Commissioner said, adding that the festival would blend tradition with contemporary entertainment.
Events across city and coastline
While the Karavali Utsava Grounds will host the main events, several programmes will also be organised at different locations to highlight the district’s natural beauty and tourist potential. To attract tourists to the beaches, a series of events will be held along the coastline as part of the festival.
A special Cake and Wine Festival will be organised on December 21 at the Tannirbhavi Blue Flag Beach, adding a festive flavour to the coastal celebrations. In the evenings, a music festival will be held at Tannirbhavi Beach, allowing visitors to enjoy live performances in a seaside setting.
Art, food and exhibitions at Kadri Park
Kadri Park will emerge as another major venue during the Karavali Utsava. The park will host an Art Fest, along with a flower and fruit exhibition showcasing a wide variety of local produce. A sweet food festival will also be organised, offering traditional and popular delicacies.
In addition, a dog show featuring various breeds is planned at Kadri Park, which is expected to be a special attraction for families and children.
Sports and film festivals planned
Sports enthusiasts will have plenty to look forward to during the festival period. Football tournaments will be organised at the Nehru Maidan football ground, drawing teams and spectators from across the region. A golf tournament will also be conducted at the Pilikula park, adding to the range of sporting events planned.
A film festival will be organised in Mangaluru city as part of the Karavali Utsava, providing a platform for cinema lovers to enjoy curated screenings during the festive season.
Helicopter rides and adventure attractions
One of the major crowd-pullers during the Karavali Utsava will be helicopter rides arranged to give visitors a bird’s-eye view of the city and coastline. Helicopter services will be available at Sultan Battery and Panambur Beach from December 23 to January 2.
“These rides will allow people to enjoy the scenic beauty of Mangaluru and its beaches in a unique way,” the Deputy Commissioner said, adding that all necessary safety measures would be in place.
Pilikula Parba and special attractions
The Pilikula Parba, to be held from December 20 to January 4, will be another key component of the festivities. The event will feature cultural programmes, exhibitions and recreational activities within the Pilikula Biological Park and surrounding areas.
Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. said that the Pilikula baby tiger cub would be a special attraction for visitors during the festival, especially for children and wildlife enthusiasts.
Platform for festive celebrations
The district administration has appealed to the public to participate enthusiastically in all the programmes along with family and friends and make the Karavali Utsava a grand success. According to officials, the exhibition, food festival, Karavali awards ceremony and entertainment programmes are designed to offer a refreshing break from the stresses of daily life.
“The festival will also serve as a major platform for locals and tourists to celebrate Christmas and the New Year in a joyful and culturally rich atmosphere,” the Deputy Commissioner said.
Officials present at press meet
District Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Dr. Narwade Vinayak Karbari, Deputy Conservator of Forests Antony S. Mariappa, Additional Deputy Commissioner Raju K., Pilikula Development Authority Commissioner Dr. Arun Kumar Shetty, and other senior officials were present at the press conference.
Conclusion
With an extensive lineup of cultural, entertainment, sports and tourism-oriented events spread over more than a month, Karavali Utsava 2025–26 promises to be a major attraction for both residents and visitors. By combining traditional festivities with modern entertainment and adventure activities, the district administration aims to showcase the vibrant spirit of coastal Karnataka while boosting tourism and community participation.