KATHMANDU: The 26th Pokhara Street Festival is scheduled to take place from December 28 to January 2 in the tourist hub of Pokhara, aiming to promote both domestic and international tourism.
Organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association (REBAN) Pokhara, the festival will span three kilometers along the lakeside area, coinciding with the English New Year celebrations.
At a press conference in Kathmandu, REBAN Central President Sangharsh Bista expressed confidence that the festival would not only boost domestic tourism but also extend the stay of foreign visitors.
He said the event will showcase traditional Nepali foods, ethnic costumes, and cultural performances, contributing to the promotion of Nepali products in global markets.
With the slogan “Let’s eat on the road, let’s enjoy on the road,” the festival aims to offer a platform for promoting art, culture, and locally produced goods.
Festival coordinator Bikash Bhattarai said that the event has played a key role in stimulating local economic activity, attracting tourists, and creating employment opportunities.
Naresh Bhattarai, outgoing president of REBAN Pokhara, reported that last year’s festival drew around 500,000 domestic and international tourists, and similar attendance is expected this year.
Bishwaraj Poudel, President of REBAN Pokhara, highlighted the festival’s broader impact on the national economy.
The event will feature up to 20 percent discounts at participating restaurants, 20 percent discounts on hotels, and 10 percent discounts on paragliding services. Free trade booths will be available to promote local products, eco-friendly goods, and Nepali handicrafts.
Main attractions include cultural programs showcasing indigenous traditions, ethnic costume displays, live concerts, boat races, tug of war and eating competitions featuring momo and sausages.
The festival is supported by the Nepal Tourism Board, Pokhara Metropolitan City, Gandaki Province Government, and Pokhara Tourism Council.
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