The Meghalaya government has officially unveiled its Autumn Calendar 2025, a vibrant lineup of festivals, cultural programs, and international events designed to promote tourism, empower local communities, and showcase the state’s rich heritage on a global stage.
Speaking at the launch, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh emphasized that these festivals are not mere expenditures but strategic investments that drive sustainable development.
“These events are not expenses but opportunities to empower communities and create sustainable growth. They boost tourism, generate jobs, and strengthen the local economy,” he said.
A flagship initiative featured in the calendar is the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project, which has become a cultural movement in itself. Since its inception, the project has supported over 7,750 artists through more than 13,000 live performances, while creating 175 salaried jobs for crew members and coordinators. The project will continue to host daily music sessions across the state, offering local talent a platform to shine.
Key Festivals and Events in the Autumn Calendar 2025:
- Megha Kayak Festival (Oct 14–18) – Ri-Bhoi district
- Ahor 4×4 Off-Road Challenge (Oct 23–25)
- Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival – Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong
- Shillong Literary Festival (Nov 20–22)
- Me·gong Festival (Nov 28–29)
- Winter Tales Festival (Dec 11–13)
Beyond local celebrations, Meghalaya’s artists and performers will also represent the state internationally, including at the North-East India Festival in Singapore and the World Expo in Osaka, Japan.
The government highlighted the tangible economic impact of such initiatives. In 2024, an expenditure of ₹23.50 crore generated returns of ₹133.42 crore, underscoring the transformative power of cultural tourism in the state.
With the Autumn Calendar 2025, Meghalaya aims to solidify its reputation as one of India’s most vibrant cultural and tourism hubs, drawing visitors from across the world while nurturing its own artistic communities.
