Your December Guide: The Most Exciting Events And Experiences Across India

December in India arrives with its own kind of sparkle – cooler days, celebratory nights, and a country brimming with experiences waiting to be explored. Whether you’re in the mood for a meaningful community

event, a nostalgia-filled pop-culture fest, a luxurious wellness retreat, or a culinary escape that lingers long after the meal ends, this month’s calendar has something for every type of explorer. From Christmas-themed soirees to artisanal melas, mountain getaways, and curated tasting sessions, here are the best things to do across India this December.

ACIW’s 13th Annual Holiday Charity Mela at The Trident, BKC

This year’s edition brings together over 50 curated brands across fashion, jewellery, home décor, wellness, children’s activities and gourmet food. The mela also shines a spotlight on grassroots NGOs, including reCharkha – The EcoSocial Tribe, Women’s India Trust, YODA, The Akanksha Foundation, Goonj, Karmann and several others championing sustainability, women’s empowerment, disability inclusion, education and rural livelihoods.

Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025 | Venue: The Trident, BKC | Time: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Entry: Free

Pokemon Fiesta at Techfest 2025, IIT Bombay

The Pokémon Company is bringing a high-energy interactive universe to IIT Bombay’s annual Techfest with Pokémon Fiesta – a three-day experience packed with attractions for students, families and gaming enthusiasts. Expect a lively Pikachu parade, photo ops, meet-and-greet zones, a Pokémon GO booth, exciting activities, and plenty of themed goodies.
Visitors can register for free through the Techfest website and unlock exclusive coupon codes for smartphone games like Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket and Pokémon UNITE.

A Wellness Weekend in Rishikesh at VILEEN

If December feels like the right moment to pause, Rishikesh offers the ideal reset. VILEEN – a quiet, luxury wellness sanctuary nestled in the hills – creates a slow, grounding rhythm with mindful meals, nature-led experiences and deeply healing therapies. The Samagra Spa is the heart of the retreat, offering sound healing, aqua yoga and soothing angel-inspired treatments designed to realign the mind and body. For anyone craving calm before the year ends, VILEEN makes for a deeply restorative weekend escape.

Experience Udaipur’s Heritage Dining at Poppy

Set in a lovingly restored 95-year-old colonial bungalow, Poppy blends heritage with warmth to create one of Udaipur’s most charming dining experiences. The space is intimate yet atmospheric. Think soft lighting, nostalgic architecture and a menu that moves seamlessly between Indian, Italian and continental flavours. Perfect for date nights, relaxed celebrations or slow evenings with friends, Poppy delivers timeless charm with a modern soul.

Address: 95-year-old Colonial Bungalow, City Centre, Udaipur | Price for two: Rs 2,000 (approx.)

Wine & Cheese Tasting at Ninkasi

On December 25, Ninkasi hosts a guided wine and cheese tasting led by Arunanshu Bansal (WSET Level 3 Wines, Level 1 Spirits, Introductory Sake Sommelier). Expect refined insights into tasting techniques, pairing styles and the craftsmanship behind each wine. The evening features dairy-free artisanal cheeses from Mana Dairy-Free Cheese – a brand redefining the Indian vegan cheese landscape with slow-aged, fermentation-led creations recently awarded PETA India’s Best Vegan Cheese.

Date: December 25 | Time: 4–6 PM | Tickets: Rs 2,000 per person

A Pasta Date at The Pasta Bowl Company

A winter evening at The Pasta Bowl Company feels like a warm Sicilian hug – cosy, indulgent and irresistibly comforting. The restaurant’s winter menu leans into fresh produce, classic Italian techniques and slow-cooked flavours. With warm lighting, curated wines and impeccable service, it’s a lovely way to unwind and treat yourself this festive season.

Address: The Pasta Bowl Company, 2nd Floor, Crosspoint Mall, Gurugram | Price for two: Rs 1,600 (approx.)