The festival begins with Atham, which starts with beautiful flower designs called Pookalams. People start preparing for the grand celebration and the day generally consists of small celebrations and local celebrations.
On Chithira, Thiruvathira, a traditional folk dance is performed. Pookalam is also the main focus on Chithira where it's expanded with various more flowers and intricate designs are added.
Chodhi is celebrated with enthusiasm, featuring local fairs and cultural performances. Preparations for the grand Onam feast, or Onasadya, begin to take shape.
In Vishakam, the clay figures of King Mahabali and Vamana are installed. It's a day of increasing excitement as the festival approaches its peak.
Anizham is a day where people shop and prepare for Onam feast. Traditional rituals are also performed on this day to welcom King Mahabali's spirit at home.
Thriketa, the biggest day of Onam, is celebrated with the Onasadya feast, dance performances like Kathakali and boat races. It celebrated the return of King Mahabali with joy and feasting.
Moolam involves visiting temples and worshipping ancestors. The day also hosts regular celebrations and cultural events that highlight the importance of culture and heritage.
Pooradam aims to continue the celebration with family gatherings and public events. Games and sports activities are always added to the festival scene.
The last day of the Onam festival, Uthradam, is when the festival ends. Clay figures of King Mahabali and Vamana are immersed in water to mark the end of the festival.
The day after Puradam, Thiruvonam, is a quiet day for reflection and relaxation, a peaceful resting place for the Onam celebrations. It is a time to celebrate and commemorate the past.