The 26th edition of the renowned Pokhara Street Festival commenced on Saturday, coinciding with the celebration of the English New Year. Organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association of Nepal (REBAN) Pokhara, the festival is set to run until January 1, 2024, along a 4-kilometer stretch of Lakeside.
Festival coordinator Bikash Bhattarai confirmed that all preparations for the event have been completed. Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, will formally inaugurate the festival during a ceremony. Ahead of the inauguration, a cultural rally featuring various ethnic groups, over 60 mothers’ groups, tourism-related organizations, and local participants will be held, starting from Khahare in Lakeside.
With the theme “Sadakmai Khaun, Sadakmai Ramau” (Eat on the street, enjoy on the street), the festival promises an array of cultural programs and showcases of traditional attire. According to REBAN Pokhara President Bishworaj Poudel, the event will feature national and international cuisines, a duet singing competition, cultural parades, night concerts, and much more.
“The street festival has become a signature event for Pokhara,” said Poudel. “We believe this event will revitalize the tourism sector, especially as it coincides with the English New Year.” Other highlights of the festival include momo-eating competitions, tug-of-war, spoon races for waiters and waitresses, and boat races, ensuring fun and engagement for attendees of all ages. The Pokhara Street Festival continues to be a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists, reinforcing Pokhara’s reputation as a vibrant tourism hub.
