Krishna Janmashtami

Krishna's appearance day — the main festival of the year. According to tradition Krishna was born at midnight, in a prison in Mathura, which is why the celebration runs until midnight.

The day is kept as a fast until midnight. In the evening there are kirtans, a decorated altar and abhisheka — the bathing of the Deities — and after the midnight arati everyone breaks the fast with a feast.

You may come at any point of the day, however familiar or unfamiliar you are with the tradition. The exact schedule is announced in advance.