Various colourful and vibrant festivals are celebrated in Dhenkanal District. Festivals of Dhenkanal District are observed by the people with immense joy and enthusiasm. It also reflects the diverse culture and traditions of this district of Orissa. Shivaratri, Gaja Laxmi Puja, Dussehra and Bullock Festival are some of the popular festivals of Dhenkanal District.
Gaja Laxmi Puja: Gaja Laxmi Puja in Dhenkanal enjoys a special place in the cultural map of Orissa. This festival continues for eleven days. This is actually the longest festival of this district. Celebration of Gaja Laxmi Puja started in the year 1923 at Kunjasahu Chowk now known as Ganesh Bazar. During the festival, entire Dhenkanal town is decorated with puja mandaps and electrical lighting. The `Polishree mela` organized by the district administration and other cultural programmes add glamour and charm to the celebration of this festival.
Maha Shivaratri at Kapilash: Kapilash is the abode of Lord Chandrasekhar which is one of the famous tourist spots of Orissa. Every year during Maha Shivaratri `Jagar Yatra` is being observed. Devotees and Pilgrims come from different corners of the country and assemble on the Kapilash peak. Prayers are offered to Lord Chandrasekhar with great devotion and austerity. The district administration makes minute arrangements for the convenience, security and comfort of the devotees.
Dussehra at Kamakhyanagar: Dussehra festival of Kamakhyanagar bears a special significance in the culture of Dhenkanal District. The festival is celebrated in the Kamakhyanagar Town with high spirits. Goddess Durga is worshipped. Kamakhyanagar town is decorated with lights and decorative items. The festival is celebrated for four continuous days. Immersion of Idols takes place on the day after `Vijaya Dashami`. On this day, statue of Ravana is set on fire.
Magha Mela at Joranda: Magha Mela at Joranda is the most famous festival of `Mahima Dharma`. Every year it begins on `Magha Purnima` and continues for four days at Joranda.
Bullock Festival of Bhuban: Bullock festival of Bhuban has a special identity. In the past, the salt merchants used bullocks to carry their loads. They used to travel different business points of India with this animal of burden. In order to commemorate the old heritage and to realize the importance of bullock in rural economy and agrarian society, the bullock festival of Bhuban is observed in Dhenkanal District. During Dussehra, bullocks are decorated with ornaments, beads and bells. Racing competition is also held during the Bullock festival.
These are some of the major festivals of Dhenkanal District appositely reflecting its rich and diverse culture.
