Snake boat races are usually tied to Onam festivities in Kerala, but this year, Onam and the excitement is arriving a little earlier, and with a bold new spin.

On 17 August, the Muziris Heritage Park in Muppalam, Alappuzha, will transform into the stage for Red Bull Vallam Vali, a high-energy event that takes Kerala’s most beloved water sport and adds a competitive twist that’s anything but traditional.

At its heart, the event celebrates Vallamkali, one of India’s oldest and most spectacular team sports. But Red Bull has reimagined it by merging two of Kerala’s sporting favourites, boat racing and tug of war, to create a format that’s all about speed, stamina and teamwork, while still keeping the festive flavour intact.

One of the showstoppers is the Chundan Vallam Row Off, where two massive 80-man snake boats lock horns, not racing side by side, but pulling against each other in a fierce test of power and rhythm.

Another thrilling segment, the Iruttukuthy Vallam Row Off, sees two squads of 25 rowers battling it out on the very same boat, relying on coordination and grit to push past the other.

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Vallam Vali is designed as a complete cultural experience, echoing the unity and joy that Onam represents.

The day will come alive with the booming beats of Chenda Melam, Kerala’s iconic percussion ensemble, along with the soulful Vanjji Pattu, the traditional rowing songs that carry the spirit of the waters.

For fans who want to witness this one-of-a-kind blend of tradition and adrenaline, tickets are up on BookMyShow, with updates being rolled out across Red Bull India’s social media.