February is a vibrant month in India, with festivals reflecting the country's rich cultural diversity. One of the major festivals is Maha Shivaratri, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasting, chant prayers, and perform night-long vigils in temples. Vasant Panchami, also known as Saraswati Puja, celebrates the arrival of spring and honors Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and arts. People wear yellow, offer prayers, and organize cultural events. 

Maha Shivaratri, or the "Great Night of Shiva," is observed with great enthusiasm throughout India, with regional variations in rituals and celebrations. In North India, especially in states like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, devotees undertake arduous pilgrimages to ancient Shiva temples in remote locations. The temples are beautifully decorated, and elaborate aartis (rituals) are performed. In Varanasi, one of the holiest cities for Hindus, thousands of devotees dip in the Ganges and visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. In South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, the festival is celebrated with grandeur at temples such as the Annamalaiyar Temple in Tiruvannamalai. Devotees light 'Agni Karpooram' (camphor) and walk barefoot around the temple, a practice known as 'Girivalam.' 

Vasant Panchami, also known as Saraswati Puja, marks the onset of spring and is dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom, music, and arts. The color yellow, symbolizing prosperity and energy, is prominently featured in the celebrations. People dress in yellow attire, prepare yellow-colored sweets like kesar halwa, and decorate their homes with yellow flowers. Educational institutions and homes set up altars with idols or pictures of Saraswati, adorned with flowers, books, and musical instruments, seeking her blessings for wisdom and learning. In West Bengal, elaborate arrangements are made in schools and colleges for Saraswati Puja, with students participating enthusiastically in the rituals. The festival in February also involves kite flying in some regions, symbolizing joy and the advent of spring.

The celebration of festivals in February significantly boosts tourism in India, drawing visitors from across the globe who seek to experience the country's rich cultural tapestry. Events like the Maha Shivaratri and Vasant Panchami see an influx of domestic and international pilgrims and tourists to prominent temples and cultural hubs, enriching the local economy. These festivals promote cultural tourism and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of India's diverse traditions among visitors.