Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival is an annual cultural event held in Meghalaya, India. Primarily celebrated in the month of November, when the city is painted with the soft shades of pink and white cherry blossoms, paired with comfortable mild weather. The festival usually lasts for 2-3 days with each day featuring a diverse range of events, including music, fashion shows, cultural performances, food stalls, exhibitions, and Arts and crafts, among many.
The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival was first celebrated in the year 2016 as an initiative by the Government of Meghalaya to promote tourism in the state. Over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant platform that showcases local and international talent, promoting both artistic and cultural exchange, welcoming visitors from all over the world. In 2022, however, the festival was cancelled due to violence and killings in the west Karbi Anglong District of Assam, which is close to the border with Meghalaya.
This year, in 2024, the festival is set for November 15-16 at RBDSA Sports Complex, Madan Kurkalang in Bhoirymbong, Ri-Bhoi District, Meghalaya. This year, the festival will be collaborating with Japan, showcasing and blending their traditions and heritage, the visitors will have the chance to explore Japan’s culture and heritage through dedicated stalls at the venue. This collaboration was sparked by the striking resemblance of Cherry Blossom in Meghalaya and Japan. This was noted by The Japanese Ambassador during his visit to Meghalaya in 2023. The tradition of celebrating “Hanami”, Cherry Blossom in Japan, dates back over a thousand years in Japan.
The organizers said this year’s festival will take its musical journey to the next level as many famous bands are line-up to enthrall the crowd. Famous Singers and International Stars will be performing during the event including pop group BONEY M’s Maizie Williams, Jasleen Royal, Hong Kong rapper-singer Lucas, Senegalese-American pop star Akon, DJ R3HAB, Kanika Kapoor, and Local Talents Rito Riba, Queen Sensation, Khasi Bloodz and various artist from Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP), will also be performing.
The tickets are now available on shillongcherryblossom.com, BookMyShow.com, RockskiTickets.com, among many.
