The float festival also known as Theppam Festival alias Theppathiruvizha marks the conclusion of the annual 12-day long 'Thai Poosam' festival of Madurai- Meenakshi Temple. Falling on the full moon day (Thaipoosam day) of the Tamil month Thai (January/February), Theppam festival is celebrated at the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, a beautiful square tank situated 5 kms east of the temple. During the festive days, the center mandapam of the tank having the deity of Vigneshwara is illuminated with colorful lights. The festival ceremonies start early morning with the procession of carrying the idols of Goddess Meenakshi Amman (Goddess Parvathi) and her partner Sundareswarar (Lord Siva) from the Meenakshi temple.

Celebrated with huge enthusiasm and pleasure, this festival attracts thousands of tourists from far and near. It is also believed that the festival is celebrated to pay homage to King Thirumalai Nayak, who had built the Teppakulam.