Art and culture of Puri District, Odisha is a unique combination of the colourful cultural heritage which has been prevalent in this part of the country since times immemorial. It is believed that since 3rd century BC, Puri is enriched with rich cultural tradition and customs, in the form of its various types of art-forms, dances, folk dances, music, fairs and festivals. Moreover, Puri is often referred to as the cultural capital of the eastern- Indian state of Odisha. The regional inhabitants of Puri engage in numerous activities which reflect their purity in the sphere of arts and culture. Puri Beach Festival, Gosani Yatra, Gundicha Utsav and different cultural events portray the vibrant culture of Puri District.

Festivals of Puri District
People of Puri celebrate a large number of festivals like Car Festival or `Ratha Yatra`, `Gundicha Mahotsava`, `Magha Mela`, `Boita Bandan`, `Maha Shiva Ratri`, `Sahi Yatra`, Puri Beach Festival and several others. Various dance festivals are also hosted by the Government of Odisha. Konark Music and Dance Festival, Mukteshvara Dance Festival, Konark Festival, Srikhestra Mahotsav, etc. are observed here. The dance form of `Odissi` and folk dances are exhibited in such festivals. As many as 13 festivals associated to Lord Jagannath are observed with pomp at Puri.

Arts of Puri District
Puri District is also revered for its rich artistic heritage which manifests itself through wonderful palm-leaf paintings, `tussar` paintings, pottery -ware, toys, `Patachitra` paintings, mache products, applique crafts and the unique sand art.

Sculptural Art in Puri District
Puri has earned repute amongst travellers, pilgrims and tourists who keep pouring into this district to catch sight of the magnificent architectural grandeur and sculptures existent in the well-known temples located here. Architectural styles of the Jagannath Temple, Sun Temple at Konark, Mangala Temple, Jambeshwar Temple, Lokanath Temple, Gundicha Temple, Sakhigopal Temple, Harihar Temple, Mohabir Temple, Amareswar Temple and numerous others. The stone sculptures found here are worth mentioning.

Performing Arts of Puri District
Odissi is the traditional dance of Odisha, and has been practised in Puri and other parts of this Indian state since ancient times. Currently, this dance has developed into a highly matured and elegant dance form. Odissi was practised by the temple dancers or `Devadasi` according to the `Mahari` tradition, since it is believed that Lord Jagannath is quite fond of songs, music and dances. Some folk dances are also performed here which comprise Naga and Medha dance, Gotipua Dance, Navrang Dance, Pala Dance, Bhalunacha Dance, Daskathia Dance, Dhudki Dance, Ghoda Dance and others.

An important theatre known as Annapurna Theatre presents frequent theatrical performances and opera is a popular dance-drama show which is practised here. This organization coordinates with organizations like Odisha Sangeet Natak Academy and Odisha Sahitya Academy which are notable institutes of arts and culture in Puri, and together they organise different cultural performances. The District Council of Culture conducts cultural events every month at the Urban Haat Conference Hall to encourage talented personas.

Cuisine of Puri District
The cuisine of Puri District is varied and appeals to the taste of food lovers. Many kinds of seafood, fruits, vegetables and sweets are available in this Indian district. `Mahaprasad` is offered before the idol of Lord Jagannath, at the Jagannath Temple, and this serves as the holy `bhog`. It is said that the temple kitchen of Jagannath Temple is the largest one in the entire world.