As the year draws to a close, here’s a list of unmissable events from around the country that will pep up your holiday. By Kumar Shree

1. Hornbill Festival, Nagaland, Dec 1-10

Every year the Kisama Heritage Village in Kohima transforms into a visual spectacle that celebrates the rich heritage and culture of Nagaland. Learn more about this northeastern state of India, while enjoying colourful dance performances, arts and crafts, music, food, sports, fashion shows and wrestling matches.

Where

Kohima, Nagaland.

Getting There

Dimapur is the closest airport (68 km) as well as railway station (75 km) to Kisama. There are direct flights from Kolkata and connecting services available from most cities. hornbillfestival.com

2. Jazz India Circuit, Haryana, Dec 6

A one-stop destination for the best of contemporary jazz, this festival brings together the best of international and local jazz artistes. The lineup includes the likes of Scottish musician Simon Thacker and Canadian jazz fusion band, The Shuffle Demons. This year, the festival will also sport a flea market and a food court.

Where

One Horizon Center, Gurugram.

Getting There

Delhi is the closest airport and it is well connected to all major international airports.

3. Jashn-e-Rekhta, New Delhi, Dec 13-15

A three-day event celebrating the best of the Hindustani literature and cultural heritage, Jashn-e-Rekhta is organised by Rekhta Foundation. The festival attracts not only poets and writers, but also eminent personalities from the world of film, television, and music. Drop by for melodious ghazals and qawwalis, and stimulating conversations.

Where

Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, India Gate, New Delhi.

Getting There

The stadium is a 30-minute drive from Delhi airport. jashnerekhta.org

4. Magnetic Fields Festival, Rajasthan, Dec 13-15

A unique marriage of contemporary culture and Rajasthani heritage, Magnetic Fields is one of the most awaited music festivals of the country. This three-day cultural extravaganza is held annually at the glorious Alsisar Mahal. From jazz and folk music to storytelling and wellness spaces, this festival has got it all.

Where

Alsisar Mahal, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan.

Getting There

The festival venue is six hours from Delhi and four hours from Jaipur. magneticfields.in

5. Food For Thought Fest, New Delhi, Dec 14-15

Food for Thought Fest celebrates the diverse culinary heritage of South Asia. In its fifth edition, the festival is a meeting ground for food connoisseurs, critics, bloggers, and chefs. Apart from an extensive food court, the event will also feature cookery workshops and demonstrations, as well as a bazaar and live entertainment.

Where

GMR Square, Aerocity, New Delhi.

Getting There

Aerocity is just five minutes away from the Delhi airport. foodforthoughtfest.com

Related: The Most Unique Winter Festivals To Experience In India This Year