SHILLONG:
Meghalaya is all set to host the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2023 even as the flower can be seen in full bloom across the state capital and even elsewhere lending a touch of pink and white.
Some of the biggest names in the music and entertainment industry will grace the festival to celebrate nature and art together.
Recently, Tourism minister Paul Lyngdoh said, “There will be a footfall of 30,000 visitors per day which means that by the end of the event we would have one lakh visitors. Ninety per cent of these visitors are expected to be tourists from outside, both domestic as well as international travellers.”
The festival offers a diverse range of activities, from cosplay competitions and beauty pageants to choir contests, graffiti and art installations, karaoke contests, a Ferris wheel, and a thrilling zipline. The festival will be held at the RBDSA Sports Complex in Madan Kurkalang, Bhoirymbong, Ri Bhoi district.
The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival is a celebration of culture, art, and music, and this year’s edition is having an unforgettable medley of pop stars and DJs.
The line-up of artistes to perform on the first day of the festival on November 17 includes Sanam, Hybrid Theory, SURL, Kenny Musik, 4th Element, The Band Phantasm, DBRYN, Gwyneth, Dalariti, CYCO, Aminio, Dr Legend and Chevinia.
But that is just the opening. Day two will see American singer NE-YO, Meba Ofilia, Pink Panda, Snow White, Rahul Rajkhowa, Street Stories – Banjop, Empirical Tribe – Tenny, Zethan, Ricaa Stella and Banker Kharkongor.
The last day of the festival will witness the much-anticipated performance from former Boyzone vocalist Ronan Keating, Jonas Blue, Lou Majaw, Blue Temptation, Da Minot, Nokpante, Rhem, Favian, Wanjop Sohkhlet, Banrap, Youngg Nate, Meban, Lamphrang, Toshan.
Located along National Highway 40, the route to ease traffic during Cherry Blossom Festival will be along the Guwahati-Shillong Road, Mawiong-ISBT Bypass and Mawdiangdiang Bypass.
