Imagine a festival where the streets are alive with food, music, and culture. Welcome to the Pokhara Street Festival. Organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association of Nepal (REBAN) with the motto ‘Eat on the street, enjoy on the street’ offers a unique perspective.

Starting from December 28, 2024, to January 1, 2025, the Pokhara Street Festival welcomes thousands of visitors to the Pokhara Lakeside area for five days of cultural fun.

It is a festival that celebrates culture and tourism whose vision is to attract both local and international tourists to make Pokhara the ideal destination during the English New Year’s Eve.

 

What to Expect at the Pokhara Street Festival?

The Pokhara Street Festival is a dynamic event that offers something for everyone. You can enjoy a variety of food from food stalls offering you both Nepali and International cuisines. The live music from local and international artists, including traditional Nepali dance and the music reflects the country’s rich culture.

You can explore art exhibitions and workshops which are specially designed for creative people. There are many fun activities for children and there are many stalls for shopkeepers for selling traditional Nepali clothing, jewelry, and unique souvenirs.

 

Events and Activities to be Expected at the Pokhara Street Festival

 

The Pokhara Street Festival is a lively event where culture combines with food and entertainment. Here’s an overview of the exciting events waiting for you:

Live Music: The festival fills the air with traditional Nepali tunes and international hits, which creates a lively atmosphere and draws everyone in. Expect live concerts in cafes and outdoor venues, hosted by local bands and invited international artists.

Dance Performances: Experience a colorful showcase of Nepali folk dances, modern hip-hop, and ballet, highlighting the diversity and energy of both traditional and contemporary dance styles.

Food Stalls: Whether you are craving authentic Nepali foods or international flavors like pizza and burgers, there is always a wide selection at Pokhara Street Festival that satisfies every tastebud.

Games and Activities: You do not have to stress for the little ones because there is plenty of fun including bouncy castles, face painting, and creative workshops that will keep them entertained throughout the festival.

Art and Craft Stalls: You can appreciate and observe the handicrafts displayed in stalls that include jewelry, paintings, clothes, and other special souvenirs prepared by local artisans to showcase their talents.

Fireworks Display: Don’t miss the dazzling fireworks at the Pokhara Street Festival at midnight, adding a touch of magic to the evening celebrations and delighting everyone.

Light Shows & Decorations: Watch the streets transform into a magical light show that creates a magical atmosphere for everyone.

Waiter Race: You will see waiters running up and down the stairs balancing trays to test their speed along with skill.

Community Participation and Local Tradition: Another exciting aspect of the Pokhara Street Festival is community involvement. Many groups from the different ethnic groups such as Gurung, Magar, and Newar communities, will present various cultural performances and traditional foods and local traditions. It is a great opportunity to understand rural tourism and enjoy the rich culture of Pokhara, Nepal.

Grand Finale and Surprise: The grand finale of the Pokhara Street Festival concludes with unparalleled live performances, dazzling fireworks, and a surprise after the dramatic event. Pokhara’s natural beauty and vibrant energy shine during these final moments, which offers a magical end for an unforgettable celebration.

So, what are you waiting for? There’s so much to explore at the Pokhara Street Festival 2025: immerse yourself in the culture, enjoy the food, and experience the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning festival enthusiast, there is something new to discover in every corner of Pokhara!

 

What to do after the Pokhara Street Festival?

 

The fun doesn’t stop at the Pokhara Street Festival. If you want to keep the energy up, head to one of the lakeside bars or clubs for music which plays late till the night.

Take a walk or stroll around Phewa Lake to feel the cool breeze on your face as you watch the city lights shimmer on the water. Alternatively, if you want to learn more about the local culture, visit one of the many local art galleries or watch an evening performance of Nepali music and dance.

Whatever you choose, Pokhara offers something for every person after the festival!

 

Travel Tips for a Smooth Festival Experience

 

Where to Stay?

Make sure to book a stay at Lakeside, where you can find a variety of options from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels near Pokhara Street Festival.

Getting Around

The festival area extends 3 km from Ambott Gaurighat to Dhikopatan Lakeside, with beautifully decorated streets. You can explore the street by walking or you can take a taxi as well.

Cash and Cards

Although many sellers at the Pokhara Street Festival accept card payments, it is easy to carry some Nepali Rupees for smaller purchases. You will find ATMs easily available in Lakeside.

Weather

The weather is usually gentle but can get cold at night. Therefore, make sure to pack comfortable clothes, walking shoes, and a light jacket for overnight stays.

 

How the Pokhara Street Festival is Turning Nepal’s Lakeside City into a Tourist Hub?

 

The Pokhara Street Festival makes the city a tourist destination that showcases its culture, cuisine, and live shows. Through cultural events, restaurants, exhibitions, art, and music, all types of tourists-foreign and local-can be inspired, which will bring a new dimension to tourism in the region.

 

The festival boosts the local economy by increasing demand for accommodations, food, and transportation while showcasing the unique beauty of Pokhara. This will enhance its visibility as a top travel destination increasing its reputation as a place of culture and recreation within Nepal.

 

Where to Watch the Pokhara Street Festival Live?

 

Social Media: Follow REBAN Pokhara’s social media pages for live updates, and stories, and you can search for live streams of Pokhara Street Festival events.

Local News: Follow local news, especially in Pokhara, for coverage of the event, which may include live streams.

Online Platforms: Finally, platforms like YouTube and TikTok will become destinations for user content including live streaming of the festival.

 

Support and Promotion

The Pokhara Street Festival is supported by various key organizations, including the Nepal Tourism Board, Pokhara Metropolitan City, and the Gandaki Provincial Government, which is responsible for organizing everything. 

 

The History Behind Pokhara Street Festival

Pokhara Street Festival was initiated by the Food and Bar Association of Nepal (REBAN) in 1999 to promote tourism in Pokhara when there are fewer visitors in the winter season.

The motto of the event ‘Sadakmai Khau, Sadakmai Nachau, Sadakmai Ramau’ holds the meaning ‘Eat on the street, Dance on the street, Enjoy and it captures the spirit of this festival nicely. Starting from a single day’s celebration which falls on New Year’s Eve, it has expanded into a 5 day festival and is now among the biggest cultural events in Nepal.

It helps in the promotion of tourism in Pokhara because it boosts the local economy. It features live music, street vendors selling traditional dishes in a lively manner, dance performances, and an amazing art show atmosphere.

 

Conclusion: Don’t Miss the Magic of the Pokhara Street Festival 2025!

The Pokhara Street Festival 2025 is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of Pokhara featuring cultural performances mouthwatering food and colorful activities. This event brings together locals and tourists to offer the best of Nepali culture and entertainment.

So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars, book your tickets, and join us at the Pokhara Street Festival 2025. Come for the food, stay for the fun, and make unforgettable memories!

For more details, visit our website at Pokhara.info.

 

FAQs

 

Is there an entry fee to the Pokhara Street Festival?

No, the entry fee is free to attend, but you may need to pay for food, souvenirs, and other activities.

 

 Are there any special events during the festival?

Yes, the festival includes exciting events such as fireworks displays, light shows, dance performances, and competitions like the Waiter Race, where participants showcase their skills.

 

Will there be a live stream of the Pokhara Street Festival 2025?

Yes, the live stream of the Pokhara Street Festival will be available on online platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. You can follow REBAN Pokhara’s official pages for more updates.

 

What kind of food can I expect to have at the Pokhara Street Festival?

You can enjoy a mix of traditional Nepali cuisine, such as MO:MO and sel roti, along with international dishes like pizza, burgers, and Chinese delicacies. There are also plenty of options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

 

What is the background history of the Pokhara Street Festival?

The festival was started in 1999 and was organized by the Restaurant and Bar Association of Nepal (REBAN) with the aim of encouraging tourism during the winter off-season. From initially being a one-day event, it has grown into a five-day celebration.

 

Why is Pokhara an ideal destination to celebrate the festival?

Pokhara’s stunning natural beauty, featuring Phewa Lake and the Annapurna mountain range, combined with its vibrant cultural scene, makes it the perfect backdrop for this lively festival.

 

Where is the Pokhara Street Festival held?

The festival is held along the Lakeside area of Pokhara, stretching from Ambott Gaurighat to Dhikopatan.

 

Can I rewatch the festival livestream later?

Yes, highlights and recorded sessions are often uploaded on platforms like YouTube for viewers who missed the live event.