The greatness of Mahalakshmi Vrata was explained to Yudhisthira by Lord Krishna. Yudhisthira wanted to know about a Vrata with which he can get back that entire he had lost including property and wealth. The importance of the Vrata is also mentioned in the Bhavishya Purana.
The Lakshmi Vrata in begins with special prayers to Goddess Lakshmi. After taking bath, usual prayers are offered to Lakshmi. Some people make sixteen knots using a string and tie it on the left hand. Sixteen Dhurva grass is dipped in water and is sprinkled on the body.
http://hinduism.about.com/od/festivalsholidays/a/mahalakshmi_vrata.htm
http://www.shravanashukravaram.com/
http://hindupad.com/vratas-pujas/mahalakshmi-vrata-puja-procedure-how-to-do-maha-laxmi-vrata/
http://meerasubbarao.wordpress.com/2008/08/18/shri-vara-mahalakshmi-vrata-august-15th-2008/
http://www.kannadaaudio.com/Songs/Devotional/home/SriVaramahalakshmiVrata.php
http://www.google.com/search?q=Mahalakshmi+Vrata&tbo=p&tbm=vid&source=vgc&aq=f
As per spiritual references, on this day "Lakshmi-panchayatan" enters the Universe. Vishnu, Indra, Kubera, Gajendra and Lakshmi are elements of this "panchayatan" (a group of five). The tasks of these elements are:
• Lakshmi: Divine Energy (Shakti) which provides energy to all the above activities.
• Vishnu: Happiness (happiness and satisfaction)
• Kubera: Wealth (Generosity; one who gives away wealth)
• Indra: Opulence (satisfaction due to wealth)
• Gajendra: Carries the wealth
