Feast of St Francis Xavier 2026: A Visitor's Guide to Old Goa
Every year on 3 December, tens of thousands of pilgrims fill the lawns of Old Goa for the Feast of St Francis Xavier, Goa's patron saint. In 2026 it falls on a Thursday, and it's a public holiday in Goa. Whether you're coming to pray or to watch, here's what to expect.
Who was St Francis Xavier?
A Spanish Jesuit missionary, Francis Xavier arrived in Goa in 1542 and travelled across Asia before dying in 1552 near the coast of China. His body was brought back to Goa and has rested since the 17th century in the Basilica of Bom Jesus, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed churches and convents of Old Goa. Goans of every faith call him “Goencho Saib”, the Lord of Goa.
The novena
The feast is preceded by a novena: nine days of prayer, usually from 24 November to 2 December. Masses are held through the day at Old Goa in Konkani and English, with parishes from across the state taking turns to attend. Crowds build steadily through the week.
Feast day
On 3 December, Masses begin before dawn and run through the morning, with the main festive Mass usually held mid-morning on the grounds outside the Basilica and the Se Cathedral. Check the Basilica's schedule for exact timings, as they're announced closer to the date.
The feast fair
Half the fun is outside. The feast fair spreads across the roads around Old Goa, selling khaje (ginger-jaggery sweets), chonne (roasted gram), kitchenware, clay pots, toys and just about anything else. It usually stays up for several days after the feast.
Tips for visiting
Go early. Roads into Old Goa get congested from the early hours, and traffic restrictions usually apply.
Park and walk. Use the designated parking areas and expect to walk the last stretch.
Or come by ferry. The Old Goa–Piedade ferry links Old Goa with Divar Island.
Dress respectfully if you're entering the churches, and keep an eye on your belongings in the crowds.
Weekdays in the novena are calmer if you want to see the Basilica without the feast-day crush.
Planning more of your December? See our November & December events calendar and our Serendipity Arts Festival guide.
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