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Holi is a Hindu festival celebrating the start of spring, which is the season with hope and new beginnings. It also celebrates the triumph of good over evil. It originated in ancient India.
The timing of Holi is synchronized with the moon, and the date varies from year to year. This year, the Holi celebrations begin on March 3, 2026.
Holi is often called the “Festival of Colors.” Many celebrations and festivals are held outside due to colorful powders being thrown and water. Many temples will also hold religious services inside the temple, honoring the Hindu deities Krishna, Radha and Narasinhe per Hindu American Foundation.
The annual Holi celebration at The Seaport in New York City shakes off the blues of winter and welcomes the arrival of spring. The Seaport is in a partnership with the South Street Seaport Museum and The Culture Tree to help present the traditional Indian festival of colors. This will be happening on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 11 am to 3 pm. Admission is free!
Holi Power Play
The festival will have five power plays. Get your cameras ready as the air will be filled with the colors of the rainbow. You can purchase colored powders at the festival. No outside colors will be permitted. Guests are encouraged to all white outfits to amplify the power play experience. The colors are supposed to wash out, but it’s probably a good idea to wear older clothes.
South Street Seafood Museum
The museum is offering free admission to its ships and galleries from 11 am to 5 pm. Tickets are free but preregistration is encouraged. Make sure to see the museum’s exhibitions before joining in the throwing of colors. People covered in color powder will not be able to go inside the museum.
Foods of Holi
Top Indian chefs will be serving the quintessential food of Holi. Enjoy festive sweets, colorful street snacks and recipes passed down through generations. This is a celebration of the cultural tradition and flavors that make Holi special.
Wavertree Kids Holi Celebration
At Wavertree, there will be a Holi Puppet Show by WonderSpark Puppets and The Culture Tree. There will be a reading Kuhaani Rangeeli (Colorful Story) by Anu Sehgal. While onboard, kids can do a Holi themed art activity and take photos of the historic ship.
Holi Dance & Drum Performance
You’ll see colorful and vibrant dance performances. The Culture Tree performers will dance and lead a workshop. Dholi Amrit will provide a soundtrack of traditional beats. DJ Magic Mike will get everyone moving to beloved Holi songs.
What To Wear
If you’d like to go to the Holi festival and look the part, you can see a selection of outfits here.
Indian Food
If you liked the Indian food at the festival and would like to learn more about Indian cooking, try these cookbooks. And you can use our links to save money on them.
Visiting New York City
If you’d like to visit New York city for the Holi festival, you should consider these hotels. They are all offering discounted rates which can save you money on your story.