The devotees celebrate this auspicious day by keeping a fast and praising Krishna. They decorate their homes with floral arrangements, lighting, diyas and flowers. temples are decorated and illuminated.

In the temples of Mathura and Vrindavan are the sites of the most lavish and colorful celebrations, as Krishna is believed to have been born there and lived out his life there. People who are devoted to Krishna take part in Raslila to recreate events from Krishna's life. They also honor his affection for Radha and because Krishna is born in the night of midnight the idol of a baby Krishna is bathed and put in a cradle at this time.

Maharashtra also has joyful celebrations at this time of year as people recreate Krishna's childhood efforts to get butter and curd from earthen pots. The activity is known as Dahi Handi. Dahi Handi celebration for which the matka, or pot, is suspended above the ground and then people build the shape of a pyramid for people to climb to the top and then break it.