Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal, is gearing up for one of its most anticipated annual events, the 27th Street Festival, scheduled to take place along the iconic Fewa Lake from Poush 13 to 17. The announcement was made on Thursday during a press conference organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association Nepal (REBAN) Pokhara.
The festival, being held to celebrate New Year 2026, will stretch across a 3.5-kilometre section of Lakeside under the theme “Eat on the Street, Celebrate on the Street.” REBAN Pokhara President Bishwaraj Poudel said the event will aim to rejuvenate the tourism sector, which has struggled with uncertainties following the recent Gen-Z movement and wider economic challenges.
Festival Strengthens Pokhara’s Identity as a New Year Destination
Speaking at the press briefing, Poudel highlighted how the street festival has played a transformative role in shaping Pokhara’s identity as a New Year hub. “There was a time when people used to travel to Goa or Thailand to celebrate New Year. But this festival broke that trend and established Pokhara as the prime destination for New Year celebrations,” he said. “More than just promoting food, culture, and music, the event has become a cornerstone in strengthening not only Pokhara’s tourism but Nepal’s tourism development as a whole.”
According to Poudel, the festival has been instrumental in revitalizing the tourism business after periods of economic slowdown, conveying the message that “Pokhara is safe, open, and welcoming.” Over the years, the festival has evolved into a brand, a symbol of pride, and an inseparable part of Pokhara’s cultural identity.
Cultural Performances, Competitions, and Global Cuisine to Take Center Stage
Festival Coordinator Basant Gautam shared details about this year’s attractions, which include performances representing the diverse ethnic cultures of Nepal, exhibitions of traditional costumes, thematic processions, and various food and art displays.
Visitors will be able to enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine as well as international dishes, all served directly on the street. Several interactive events and competitions have been planned, including:
- Boat Race
- Waiter Race
- Tug of War
- Games designed specifically for tourists
- Live concerts featuring national and international performers
Gautam added that the festival will also feature activities focused on heritage and awareness. These include street theater, panel discussions on tourism development and challenges in Pokhara, and exhibitions showcasing local handicrafts, paintings, sculptures, agricultural products, and traditional herbs from the Pokhara Valley and surrounding areas.
Promoting Pokhara as a Year-Round Tourism Hub
Highlighting Pokhara’s natural and cultural richness, Gautam remarked, “Pokhara itself is like an open museum. This street festival strengthens that identity and contributes directly to tourism and the local economy. Especially during the winter, when tourism tends to slow down, this event plays a vital role in keeping the city vibrant and promoting Pokhara globally as a year-round destination.” The festival has consistently supported the message that Pokhara offers safe, diverse, and engaging tourism experiences regardless of season.
Boosting Domestic and International Tourism
President of the Hotel Association Pokhara, Laxman Subedi, said the festival has played a crucial role in positioning the city as a preferred destination for both domestic and international visitors during the English New Year season.
“The street festival has helped promote Pokhara as a global New Year destination,” Subedi noted. “It brings together culture, hospitality, entertainment, and community pride in a way that deeply resonates with travelers.”
A Cultural and Economic Celebration for Pokhara
With a blend of gastronomy, art, music, culture, sports, and tourism-focused activities, the 27th Street Festival is expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors, offering them a lively and immersive experience along the scenic Fewa Lakeside.
Despite economic uncertainties and industry challenges, the organizers believe the festival will deliver a strong message of resilience and renewed hope, highlighting Pokhara’s unwavering charm, community spirit, and its pivotal role in Nepal’s tourism landscape.
