On a March morning in Guyana, the streets come alive with clouds of colored powder, joyful shouts, and the infectious spirit of celebration. This is Phagwah — the Guyanese name for Holi, the ancient Hindu festival of colors that has been celebrated in this South American nation for nearly two centuries.
What makes Phagwah in Guyana special is how it has evolved from a religious observance into a truly national celebration, embraced by Guyanese of all backgrounds. It's a day when strangers become friends, differences dissolve in a rainbow of colors, and the entire country joins in the joy of spring.
Phagwah 2026
Date: March 14, 2026
Type: National Public Holiday
Also Known As: Holi, Festival of Colors, Festival of Spring
The Cultural Significance of Phagwah
Phagwah has deep roots in Hindu tradition, celebrating several important themes:
Triumph of Good Over Evil
The Legend of Holika and Prahlad
The festival commemorates the story of Prahlad, a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu, who survived a fire set by his evil aunt Holika. The bonfire lit on the eve of Phagwah (called Holika Dahan) symbolizes the burning away of evil and negativity.
Divine Love
Radha and Krishna
Phagwah also celebrates the eternal love between Radha and Krishna. According to legend, the young Krishna was jealous of Radha's fair complexion, so his mother suggested he color Radha's face. This playful act is reenacted every Phagwah through the throwing of colors.
Arrival of Spring
Harvest and Renewal
Phagwah marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring — a time of new beginnings, fresh harvests, and renewed hope. In Guyana's tropical climate, this translates to celebrating the end of the dry season and the coming of the rainy season's abundance.
The Meaning of Colors
The colored powders (called abeer or abir) thrown during Phagwah aren't just random — each color carries symbolic meaning:
Traditional colors were made from natural ingredients — turmeric for yellow, indigo for blue, and various flowers for other hues. Today, commercial powders are more common, though many families still prepare natural colors at home.
How Phagwah is Celebrated in Guyana
The Night Before: Holika Dahan
Celebrations begin the evening before with Holika Dahan — the ceremonial bonfire. Communities gather at Hindu temples (mandirs) to light large fires, symbolizing the burning of evil. Devotees circle the fire, offer prayers, and share sweets. It's a solemn but joyful occasion that sets the stage for the colorful festivities to come.
Evening Ritual
The bonfire is typically lit at moonrise. Many families bring items symbolizing negativity in their lives to throw into the fire, representing a fresh start. Traditional songs (chowtal) are sung throughout the night.
Phagwah Day: The Color Explosion
The main celebration begins early on Phagwah morning. Here's what to expect:
- Morning prayers: Many Hindu families begin with temple visits and prayers
- Color play begins: By mid-morning, the colors start flying — friends, family, and strangers alike are fair game
- Music and dancing: Traditional chowtal songs mix with modern soca and chutney music
- Water play: Colored water (using water guns, balloons, and buckets) adds to the fun
- Street celebrations: Communities gather in public spaces for organized events
- Feasting: Traditional sweets like mithai, gujiya, and malpua are shared freely
Where to Celebrate Phagwah
Georgetown
The National Park hosts large public celebrations with music, color throwing, and food vendors. Mandirs throughout the city hold their own events. The Promenade Gardens area is also popular for gatherings.
East Coast Demerara
Villages along the East Coast have strong Indo-Guyanese communities with vibrant Phagwah traditions. Mon Repos, Lusignan, and Enmore are known for lively celebrations.
Berbice
The Ancient County of Berbice, with its large Hindu population, hosts some of the most traditional celebrations. New Amsterdam and surrounding villages celebrate with authentic rituals and community gatherings.
Hindu Temples
Mandirs throughout Guyana welcome visitors for Phagwah. Major temples include the Shri Krishna Mandir in Georgetown, the Palmyra Mandir in Berbice, and numerous community temples islandwide.
Experience Guyanese Culture
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Events CalendarTips for Visitors
What to Wear
- White or light colors: Traditional and shows off the colors beautifully
- Old clothes: Colors may not wash out completely — don't wear anything you love
- Closed-toe shoes: Protect your feet from colored water and mud
- Minimal jewelry: Leave valuables at home
- Waterproof phone case: Essential for protecting your devices
Preparation Tips
- Apply coconut oil: Coat your skin and hair before celebrations — it helps colors wash off easier
- Protect your eyes: Consider sunglasses, and don't wear contact lenses
- Bring a towel: You'll need it for cleanup
- Change of clothes: Pack dry clothes for the journey home
- Stay hydrated: The combination of sun, dancing, and colors is dehydrating
Cultural Etiquette
- Ask permission: While the spirit is playful, always ask before applying color to someone's face
- Respect boundaries: Not everyone wants to participate — respect those who prefer to watch
- Join the spirit: Locals love welcoming visitors into the celebration — don't be shy!
- Say "Happy Phagwah!": The traditional greeting, along with "Bura na mano, Holi hai!" (Don't be angry, it's Holi!)
Inclusive Celebration
While Phagwah has Hindu origins, it's celebrated by Guyanese of all religions and backgrounds. The festival embodies Guyana's multicultural spirit — everyone is welcome to join the colorful fun!
Phagwah Food & Drinks
No festival in Guyana is complete without delicious food. Phagwah specialties include:
- Gujiya: Sweet fried dumplings filled with khoya (dried milk) and dry fruits
- Malpua: Sweet pancakes soaked in sugar syrup
- Mithai: Assorted Indian sweets including barfi, ladoo, and jalebi
- Thandai: Traditional cold milk drink with almonds, fennel, and spices
- Puri and curry: Fried bread with vegetable curry — festive fuel for dancing
- Parsad: Sweet semolina pudding offered as prasad (blessed food) at temples
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Phagwah 2026 in Guyana?
Phagwah 2026 falls on March 14, 2026. Celebrations begin the evening before with Holika Dahan (bonfire) and continue throughout the following day.
Is Phagwah a public holiday in Guyana?
Yes, Phagwah is a national public holiday. Banks, government offices, and most businesses close. Guyana is one of the few countries outside India where Holi is an official holiday.
Where can tourists celebrate Phagwah?
Major celebrations take place at Hindu temples throughout Guyana, particularly in Georgetown, Berbice, and the East Coast. The National Park in Georgetown hosts large public celebrations. Visitors are warmly welcome.
What should I wear to Phagwah?
Wear white or light-colored old clothes that you don't mind staining. Apply coconut oil to skin and hair beforehand to help colors wash off. Bring a change of clothes and consider wearing closed-toe shoes.
Last updated: January 2026. Ready to experience Guyana's colorful celebrations? Check our Events Calendar or explore Guyana Carnival for another spectacular festival.