The Institute of Hotel Management, Shillong, has launched the Strawberry and Laitkynsew Tomato Product Innovation Challenge to encourage the development and promotion of innovative value-added products using Meghalaya’s prized local produce. This event aims to engage food entrepreneurs and chefs to showcase their culinary and innovative skills to a wider audience. It also enables participants to explore market potential, foster sustainable practices, and contribute to the promotion of Meghalaya’s unique agricultural produce.

With a strong focus on sustainability and creativity, the challenge aims to promote local agri-based entrepreneurship, encourage culinary innovation, and highlight the commercial potential of local ingredients. Participants will pitch their creations to a panel of expert judges, with scoring based on taste, innovation, presentation, and market viability.

Top winners stand the chance to gain cash prizes of up to ₹50,000, along with opportunities to collaborate with celebrity chefs and institutions for product development, branding, and marketing. This event not only celebrates Meghalaya’s rich culinary heritage but also reinforces the value of homegrown, sustainable food innovation.

Date: April 29, 2025

Venue: Institute of Hotel Management, Mawdiangdiang, Shillong

Registration:  Google Form/QR code

Last Date of registration: April 25, 2025

As Shillong will be hosting the Sunburn Arena ft Alan Walker, the global electronic music sensation, is bringing his Walkerworld Tour to the hills this 28th September 2024, and it’s going to be ‘Faded’ with excitement! Alan Walker a renowned Norwegian disc jockey, will perform in various cities across India, including Shillong. He gained international recognition with his debut single “Faded” in 2015, which became a massive hit and took him to fame. Walker is known for his unique sound, which blends melancholic melodies with optimistic lyrics, creating an emotional connection with his listeners. Alan Walker is known for his electrifying beats, chart-topping hits like “On my way,” “Alone” and “Darkside” and mesmerizing stage performances, Alan Walker is set to light up Shillong like never before. Get ready to experience the ultimate Alan Walker concert, featuring his biggest hits, stunning visuals, and an infectious energy that will keep you dancing all night long! Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a lover of electronic music, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

Date: September 28, 2024

Venue: Shillong Lariti Performing Centre

Time: 3 pm

Tickets: Tickets are available at: https://in.bookmyshow.com

The Megha Kayak Fest, a thrill of whitewater racing at Umtham Village, Meghalaya, one of the most stunning locations on earth. The Megha Kayak Fest aims to be the biggest festival of its kind and offers three exciting race categories, with a total prize purse of $20,000. Additionally, winners will receive top-notch equipment and other awesome incentives. Don’t miss this adrenaline-packed event that combines adventure, nature, and competition!

Venue: Umtham, Ri Bhoi District, Meghalaya

Date: October 10-12, 2024

RSVP: https://www.meghakayakfest.com

This year marks the 4th edition of the Shillong Literary Festival as it celebrates the art, literature and culture bringing together writers, poets, and literature enthusiasts. This festival provides a platform for writers and like-minded groups to share their work and connect with readers. The Shillong Literary Festival 2024 aims to promote and celebrate the rich literary heritage of the region. This festival will foster intellectual dialogue and discourse, inspire young people to pursue their creative aspirations, and contribute to tourism and economic development in the region. By celebrating the region’s literary heritage, the event features book launches, author talks, panel discussions, poetry recitals and workshops. Overall, the festival will have a positive impact on the local economy and community.

Venue: Wards Lake, Shillong

Date: November 18th & 19th, 2024

Tickets available at: Wards Lake Counter

One of Meghalaya’s most beautiful annual events is the Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong. Kicking off in mid-November, when the cherry blossom trees will be in full bloom, the festival is filled with live music and a variety of exciting activities, such as musical performances, dance competitions, pageants and setting up a variety of food stalls. This festival provides a breathtaking backdrop for those looking to immerse themselves in both the modern and traditional cultures of Meghalaya. The 2024 Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, themed “Year of Legends” has announced its powerhouse lineup, headlined by international sensations Akon, Boney M, Lucas and R3HAB. The festival will also feature performances by Tribute acts for Queen, American nu metal band Korn, Indian pop artists Jasleen Royal and Kanika Kapoor. Shillong’s own Jessie Lyngdoh and rock band The Great Society, reggae band Dewdrops and hip-hop artist Reble will also take the stage. This year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, that will celebrate the rich cultural heritage, art, and music of the region.

Venue: The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival will take place at the RBDSA Sports Complex, Madan Kurkalang, Bhoi Rymbong.

Date: November 15-16, 2024

Tickets: Tickets for the festival are currently available at:

• https://in.bookmyshow.com
• https://www.rockskitickets.com

The Me•Gong Festival, inspired by a beautiful flower native to the Garo Hills, offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, celebrating the vibrant culture and heritage of the Garo people. This two-day festival is a lively showcase of the region’s diversity, featuring band performances, games, fashion shows, and much more, creating a festive atmosphere that resonates with pride and community spirit. This year’s lineup is a thrilling mix of international and Indian talent, with Europe, the iconic rock band, as the headlining act. They’ll be joined by India’s rock legends Indus Creed, fusion favorites Shanka Tribe and Euphoria, and beloved local groups like Da Suraka, Haystack Ladies.

Each performance, from rock to folk fusion, reflects a unique musical narrative that combines the essence of Meghalaya’s musical scene. Beyond the music, Me•Gong Festival allows visitors to experience the Garo people’s warm hospitality and the Garo Hills’ scenic beauty, offering tourists an unforgettable taste of Meghalaya’s cultural landscape. For locals and visitors alike, the festival is not just an event but a celebration of the Garo Hills’ identity, community, and enduring spirit.

Venue: Baljek Airport, Jengjal West Garo Hills

Date: November 29-30, 2024

Tickets: Click here to Book Tickets

Marking its 5^th edition, “The Hills Festival” is a two-day homegrown festival honouring the State’s traditional and modern wealth, featuring local cuisine, music and art installations. As you immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, discover new talents, and indulge in thrilling activities, this festival promises to awaken your creative spirit and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

 Venue: Lum Er Pyngngad Umbir, Ri Bhoi

Date: December 6 -7, 2024

Tickets: Click here to Book Tickets

Get ready to rock Shillong! Bryan Adams is coming to Town!

Bryan Adams, the legendary Canadian singer-songwriter, is set to perform in the picturesque city of Shillong as part of his India Tour 2024. The concert is expected to be a thrilling experience for music fans. For decades, Bryan Adams has been the soundtrack to our lives, with iconic hits like ‘(Everything I do) I Do It for You, ‘Please Forgive Me’, and of course, the unforgettable ‘Summer of ’69’. His music has been the anthem to our first loves, our heartbreaks, and our most unforgettable memories. And now, he’s back to recreate that magic, live on stage!

Venue: JN Stadium, Polo Ground, Shillong

Date: December 10, 2024

Tickets: Click here to Book Tickets

The Winter Tales Festival, a festival curated by Dakti Craft is a unique event held in Shillong, Meghalaya. It’s a platform where local talents and entrepreneurs can showcase their stories, products and talents, and it’s a great opportunity to experience the local food, art, craft, and music. People can expect to be engaged and excited about all things of the Meghalayan culture as this unique event highlights local entrepreneurs who produce handicrafts, handlooms, music, food, art, literature and an array of talents.

Venue: Wards Lake, Shillong

Date: December 12 -14, 2024

Started in the year 2020 to provide travellers bespoke experiences in Meghalaya, the Meghalayan Age Festival was the first of its kind in the entire North-East region. The hot-air balloon rides and tethered rides are expected to attract many enthusiasts in coming editions.

The Meghalayan Age’s main features include glamping and exclusive caving and trekking tours. Apart from the state’s most popular sites, the festival also puts the spotlight on green and responsible travelling and new destinations and experiences.

Watch this space for more information.

Held by the banks of the mesmerizing Umiam Lake, the Shillong Autumn Festival is one of the highlights of the post-monsoon calendar. It provides a stage for top music artists from across the state and country – catering to fans of all genres, from EDM and hip-hop to metal and rock. The Shillong Autumn Festival is an opportunity for travellers to discover local cuisines and products like pickles, wines, crafts and more.

Watch this space for more information.