14th Annual Holi Festival

The Birmingham Museum of Art is partnering with City Walk Birmingham to celebrate the fourteenth annual Holi Festival, a bright and joyous event sponsored by the Indian Cultural Society. Embrace the spirit of Holi, a traditional Indian festival marking the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. This colorful celebration is filled with live music, dance performances, art activities, and of course, the iconic throwing of colored powders. Suitable for all ages, the BMA’s Holi Festival is a perfect way to experience the richness of Indian culture, enjoy a fun-filled day with the community, and welcome the spring season in a burst of festive color.

The majority of this event is free with registration. There is a $5 charge for the Auditorium performances.

Schedule of Events:

12 – 5pm: Music and Food Trucks (City Walk – Outside)

City Walk will be alive with music by DJ Krish and a special selection of food trucks featuring delicious Indian specialities.

12 – 4pm: Face Painting and Henna Art (City Walk – Outside)

12 – 3pm: Art Making (Museum Cafe – Inside)

Make your own Holi color popper! Be ready to send your color flying with your very own personalized popper.

12:30 – 1:15pm: Dance Performances (BMA Auditorium – Inside) – Ticketed Only

1:45 – 2:30pm:  Dance Performances (BMA Auditorium – Inside) – Ticketed Only

Experience captivating dance performances by local Indian dance troupes in our auditorium, showcasing a blend of traditional and fusion styles. We’re excited to offer two opportunities this year to allow more visitors to experience these special performances!

Due to our auditorium’s limited seating, we have a reservation system of $5 per seat to guarantee your spot. You may reserve up to 6 seats. BMA members can reserve up to two seats for free. Members must use the link below and log in to verify their membership and claim their complimentary seats.

3 – 5pm: Throwing of Colors + Post-Color Dance Party (City Walk – Outside)

Join us for the festival’s highlight – the throwing of colors. Gulal (Hindi: गुलाल) or Abir (Bengali: আবির) or Abhir (Odia: ଅଭିର) is the traditional name given to the colored powders used for throwing during Holi.  This exuberant tradition brings together the community in a vibrant display of joy and celebration of spring. After the throwing of colors, keep the party going with DJ Krish!

Please note that limited quantities of Gulal are provided by the BMA while supplies last. Learn where you can Purchase Your Own Gulal. 

Special Notes:

Tickets and Reservations: To secure a seat for the dance performances in the auditorium, a $5 donation per person is required for non-members, ensuring availability on a first-come, first-served basis. BMA members, however, can reserve their seat at no cost by logging in through the provided link to verify their membership status. Your contributions and support play a vital role in enabling us to provide enriching experiences for all visitors.

Food and Refreshments: A selection of food trucks will offer a variety of delicious options to satisfy your appetite.

Health and Safety: Color powders used during the festival are safe and eco-friendly. We recommend wearing old clothes that you don’t mind getting colorful.