The curtain went up on the State government's Onam festivities on September 3, when Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister, Kerala, inaugurated the week-long celebrations hosted by Kerala Tourism at Nishagandhi Auditorium, Kanakakkunnu. Mr. V. Sivankutty, Minister for General Education, Kerala, outlined the programme, while Mr. P. A. Mohamed Riyas, Minister for Tourism, Kerala, presided. Film director and actor Basil Joseph and Tamil actor Ravi Mohan, popularly known as Jayam Ravi, graced the event as chief guests.

For an entire week, the city pulsed with cultural energy. Thiruvananthapuram's streets and landmarks glowed under brilliant illuminations, while 33 venues across the capital hosted performances by thousands of artists. The celebrations blended Kerala's rich traditions with modern creativity, offering everything from classical dance to musical showcases, visual spectacles, and martial arts displays.

The highlight came on September 9, when the grand Onam procession, wound its way from Vellayambalam to East Fort. Around 150 floats rolled through the streets, each depicting Kerala's artistic, social, and cultural vibrancy. The procession, held under strict adherence to the Green Protocol, drew massive crowds to vantage points along the route.

Among the most memorable sights were Pulikali, the tiger dance performed with lively fervour, Oppana with its graceful rhythm, Panchavadyam filling the air with resonant beats, the dazzling light show that illuminated the city, and the iconic figure of Maveli, symbolising Onam's essence of unity and prosperity. The entire capital glowed under elaborate illuminations, with lanterns adorning trees along major streets and a grand light show, adding a magical brilliance to the celebrations.