In the true spirit of its multi religious heritage, Bihar celebrates its many religious festivals and fairs of great local appeal. Like most ancient fairs in India, Sonepur fair is also steeped in mythology and folklore. Today, it is a fantastic cattle fair, perhaps the largest in Asia. The fortnight long fair is held on the full moon day of Kartik (November) and all manners of domestic and farm animals are bought and sold.

Buddha was born, attained enlightenment and passed away, all on the same full moon day of April/May, Thus, Vaisakhi Poornima, one of the most beautiful full moon nights in the year, is celebrated as Buddha Jayanti.

Bihar being a holy land for the Jains as well, two major Jain festivals are celebrated here - Mahavir Jayanti at Parasnath Hill in April and Deo Deewali, which commemorates the final liberation of Lord Mahavira.

Unique in Bihar is Chhath Puja, or worship of the sun god. Most famous one is at the sun temple in Baragaon near Nalanda, where new paddy, sweets and fruits are offered in worship. Traditional Indian festivals of Ramnavami, Dassehra, Diwali and Holi are also celebrated with great extravaganza in Bihar. (Read More on Art & Craft In Bihar)