Holi, the Hindu “Festival of Colors,” is widely known for its exuberant celebrations in India. However, the festival’s joy has spread far beyond its origins, taking root in diverse communities worldwide. From massive gatherings in the US to unique cultural adaptations, here’s where you can experience Holi outside of India.
The US: Utah’s Unexpected Holi Hub
The largest Holi celebration outside of India isn’t in a major Indian diaspora city, but in Spanish Fork, Utah. Since 1989, the Festival of Colors, organized by a local Hare Krishna temple, draws up to 70,000 attendees. The event features live music, yoga, vegan food, and, of course, tons of colorful powder. Tickets are around $24 for color and $10 for multi-day access.
Why it matters: This demonstrates how cultural traditions can flourish in unexpected places. The festival’s success shows that the appeal of Holi isn’t limited to just the Hindu community – it’s become a broader cultural event.
Mauritius: A Nation Embracing Color
Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, boasts a large Hindu population (two-thirds of the population is of Indian descent). This leads to widespread, enthusiastic Holi celebrations. The festival includes bonfires, dancing, and the iconic throwing of colored powder and water.
This year’s Holika Dahan takes place on March 3, followed by Holi on March 4.
Why it matters: Mauritius’ example illustrates how a country’s demographics can influence the preservation of cultural traditions. The large Indian diaspora ensures Holi remains a significant part of the national calendar.
Guyana: Phagwah and the Castor Oil Tree
In Guyana, Holi is known as Phagwah. The celebrations include a unique tradition of planting a castor oil tree 40 days before the festival, honoring the goddess Saraswati. The tree is then burned in a pyre, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Celebrations involve dye-throwing, processions, and traditional sweets. Phagwah will be celebrated on March 3, 2026.
Why it matters: This highlights how cultural practices evolve as they move across borders. The Guyana adaptation demonstrates how local customs blend with the core themes of Holi.
Nepal: The Chir Pole Tradition
Nepal celebrates Holi as Phagu Purnima with a distinctive tradition: erecting a chir, a wooden pole decorated with colorful cloths, a week before the festival. The pole is erected in Durbar Square in Kathmandu, where celebrations culminate in its burning. Holi will be celebrated on March 2 in the Hilly Regions and March 3 in the Terai Regions this year.
Why it matters: Nepal’s chir tradition shows how festivals can become deeply intertwined with local landmarks and symbolic rituals.
Trinidad and Tobago: A Caribbean Holi Legacy
Trinidad and Tobago, with its large Indian diaspora, observes Holi (Phagwah) as one of its most important celebrations. The festival was brought to the islands by Indian migrants in 1845 and is now celebrated by people of all faiths. Celebrations include traditional music played on dholaks and manjeeras. The main celebration will be on March 8 this year.
Why it matters: Trinidad and Tobago’s story underscores how diaspora communities preserve and adapt cultural traditions over generations.
Berlin: A Late-Summer Holi Party
Breaking from tradition, Berlin celebrates Holi in late August rather than March. The Holi Festival of Colors at Zentraler Festplatz draws large crowds, with tickets starting at approximately €20. Similar events happen across Germany throughout the summer.
Why it matters: Berlin’s late celebration shows how festivals can be adapted to local climates and preferences. It highlights the flexibility of cultural traditions as they spread globally.
Los Angeles: Beachside Holi with a Modern Twist
Los Angeles takes a modern approach to Holi with “Holi & The Beach 2026.” This beachside party features celebrity DJs, food vendors, and vibrant color play. Tickets start at $17.
Why it matters: Los Angeles’ event illustrates how festivals can be commercialized and integrated into contemporary entertainment scenes. This shows how cultural traditions can evolve alongside modern trends.
Holi’s global spread demonstrates the power of cultural exchange and adaptation. Whether in Utah, Mauritius, or Berlin, the core message of joy, renewal, and triumph of good over evil remains universal. The festival continues to evolve, yet its essence endures across borders and communities.
