The festival heralding the arrival of Onam, Athachamayam is held on the Atham day of the Malayalam month of
Chingam (August-September) at
Tripunithura. Spectacular processions accompanied by beautifully adorned elephants and floats are held at Thripunithura and Piravam. The event held at Thripunithura is a celebration to commemorate some legendary victory of the King of
Kochi in the past. In olden days the King himself led the pageants, and it was also an occasion for the subjects to greet the king and see him at close quarters.
During this time, various folk and temple arts of
Kerala are displayed.
