Shillong, Nov 13: With an exciting lineup of international superstars, regional talent and cultural attractions, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 is all set to kick off on Friday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and Polo Ground, Shillong, continuing through Saturday.
Celebrating music, culture and the magical bloom of the pink cherry blossom trees, the festivalis going to be a two-day spectacle that will enchant visitors, as Meghalaya opens its hills again for the global celebration of art and nature.
November 14 will bring headline performances from international chart-toppers The Script and Jason Derulo, with dance and entertainment icon Nora Fatehi adding a high-energy set to the opening night. The day will also feature a strong line-up of local artists such as Dappest, Zephyrtone, Walter Wahlang, Khasi Bloodz, Prismer, ALIVE, Larger Than 90, Bending Waves and others, giving theaudience a blended experience of mixed global and local talents.
The second day of the festival will feature international heavyweights Tyga and Aqua, alongside a headline experience by global producer DJ Diplo and more of the North East’s finest artists, such as Meba Ofilia, Girish & The Chronicles, Ahaia, G Hills Finest, Finding Mero, Dalariti, ARIUS and more, including a specially curated tribute to Zubeen Garg, acknowledging his contributions to the music world and to the region.
Beyond the main stages, the festival this year will also include other activities including the Cherry Blossom Arm Fight, karaoke contest, mechanical bull, zipline, graffiti contest, Cherry Blossom Cosplay Competition and other attractions. Visitors can also explore a wide range of local food stalls, craft displays and merchandise booths that capture Meghalaya’s creative spirit and culinary diversity. Organisers have also put in place advanced event technologies and fan experiences to make the festival both secure and more immersive.
While Polo Ground will serve as the central venue for the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, visitors can also explore the Japan Arena at Ward’s Lake, which celebrates the cultural bond between Meghalaya and Japan. The arena will feature Japanese art, music, cuisine and traditional performances, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage. It also highlights the longstanding friendship and cultural exchange between India and Japan, reflected in the blooming cherry blossoms that symbolise renewal and harmony.
