With a history that is culturally rich and ethnically diverse, Ponnani carves itself a niche in the history of Malabar and the country as a whole.

Mamankam

This  festival was a replication of the cultural extravaganza held every 12 years by the Zamorians of Malabar in the middle ages. Royal families, principalities and chieftains from all over kerala used to participate in this great cultural events which was held on the grounds of Thirunavaya Navamukanda temple near Ponnani.

 Sarvodaya Mela

The Gathering of the 'Gandhians'  is held on the shores of Bharathappuzha in Thirunavaya and Thavannur in Ponnani in february every year.  On February 12, 1948, the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of nation was washed in  Bharatappuzha at Thirunavaya, The sarvodaya mela is celebrated to commemerate this event.

The principle idea behind this gathering is to spread 'Swadeshi awareness', Anti-liquor campaign and gandhian principles etc.

The last mela was held in Thavannur from February 11 to 13, 2002.

 Festivals in Ponnani

The famous Thrikkavu temple here celebrates the 'Navarathri' festival. This nine day festival turns Ponnani into town bustling with celebration and joy.

Kandurampankavu pooram attracts people from neighbouring  villages and is a popular celebration.

Ten Kms. south-east of Ponnani, is the legendary Mookkuthala Bhavathi Temple, one of the ancient Durga temples of Kerala. It is believed that Sankaracharya is associated with the founding of the temple. The Karthika Mahotsav, celebrated in Vrischikam (November-December) attract thousands of devotees.

Another important occasion of celebration is the 'Nercha' at Poonani Valiya Juma-ath mosque. 

The 'Andu Nercha' of Puthenpalli in the south-west border of the taluk, is also famous. Lakhs of devotees attend this annual festival of the mosque. As a part of the festival, 'Neychor' (Ghee Rice) is distributed to devotees and the poor.