The Restaurant and Bar Association (REBAN) of Pokhara is set to host the 26th edition of the Pokhara Street Festival, marking the occasion of the English New Year. The festival, themed “Let’s Eat and Enjoy on the Street,” will take place from Poush 13 to 17. This popular event is expected to showcase the vibrant culture of Nepal while promoting both domestic and international tourism.
According to the Central President of REBAN, Sangharsh Bisht, the street festival has been instrumental in promoting internal tourism and extending the stay of foreign tourists in Pokhara. He stated, “The Pokhara Street Festival has been promoting domestic tourism, and we have seen foreign tourists extending their trips to participate in the event.” Bisht emphasized that tourism experts in Pokhara had initiated this festival to boost the tourism sector, making it an integral part of the region’s cultural heritage.
Bisht further added that the festival also encourages the promotion of Nepali products and helps bring them to the international market. The festival’s display of local foods, ethnic attire, and traditional cultures contributes significantly to the overall tourism promotion of Nepal. He suggested that with active collaboration from the government, private sector, and stakeholders, the festival could be expanded into a grand annual event, playing a key role in further promoting tourism throughout the country.
REBAN Pokhara’s President, Bishworaj Paudel, also shared his views, stating that the festival has become a major attraction for both local and international tourists. He noted that the festival is not only promoting art and culture but is also helping market local products. The event’s popularity continues to grow as it offers a platform for showcasing the richness of Nepali culture and traditions.
The 26th Pokhara Street Festival will feature a wide range of activities, including cultural performances showcasing various ethnic groups, traditional dress exhibitions, tableau competitions, live concerts, and sports events such as boat races, waiter races, tug-of-war, and eating contests with momo and sausage. This year, the festival will also feature cultural presentations from the neighboring countries of India and China, as well as a Krishna-themed performance from Lamjung.
Organizers anticipate that around 500,000 domestic and international tourists will attend the five-day festival. Additionally, the first-ever International Hot Air Balloon Festival will take place in Pokhara, starting from Poush 9 and continuing until January 1, 2025. The festival will feature the participation of balloon companies from 20 countries and will be held over a three-kilometer stretch from Taurukh to Chhangkhpur in the Pame area. With approximately 40% of foreign tourists visiting Pokhara, the event is expected to further boost the city’s reputation as a prime tourist destination.
