Raphael Warjri

The much-awaited Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 has been officially announced and is set to take place on November 14 and 15.

Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh made the announcement today revealing a host of new features and major international acts lined up for the event.

The festival will return to its original venue at J.N. Stadium in Shillong, with additional activity zones at MFA Ground and SRGT Ground.  

In a major boost to the state’s tourism credentials, Meghalaya bagged two prestigious awards at the WOW Awards Asia 2024 — with the Cherry Blossom Festival winning Gold for ‘Special Event of the Year  and the Me·gong Festival securing Gold for ‘Festival of the Year .

Highlighting the festival’s impact, Minister Lyngdoh said the state invested ₹23.5 crore across festivals in 2024, generating a record ₹133.42 crore in economic returns. The events attracted nearly 4 lakh visitors, with 100% hotel occupancy in Shillong and Sohra, ₹16.8 crore in aviation earnings, and over ₹5 crore from cab services alone.

To manage traffic and enhance the visitor experience, the stretch from Hotel Pinewood to Polo Grounds will be converted into a pedestrian-only zone.

Amid concerns of cultural dilution, the minister reiterated the festival’s role in promoting local talent, noting that many tribal musicians now earn livelihoods through such platforms. He also emphasized the importance of sustainability, announcing that awards will be given to localities with the highest cherry blossom tree plantations.