Sri Vijaya Puram, July 10:The Department of Tourism has invited applications from entrepreneurs, artisans, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), farmers, home chefs, start-ups and cultural performers to participate in the 2nd Edition of the Monsoon Food & Culture Festival-2026, scheduled to be held from July 17 to 19 at the ITF Ground in Sri Vijaya Puram.
The three-day festival, organised in collaboration with allied departments of the Administration under the approved Tourism Calendar of Events 2026-27, will begin at 4 pm each day. The event follows the successful conclusion of the first edition, which was held from June 26 to 28 and received participation from residents, food entrepreneurs, SHGs, artisans and other stakeholders.
According to the Department, the annual Monsoon Food & Culture Festival has evolved into one of the major seasonal events in the Islands, providing a platform to showcase local cuisine, cultural traditions, handicrafts and products made by local entrepreneurs while encouraging community participation.
Applications have been invited from hoteliers, restaurant owners, café owners, food entrepreneurs, SHGs, artisans, farmers, start-ups, home chefs and other local entrepreneurs interested in setting up stalls during the festival. Participants have been encouraged to showcase island specialties, including indigenous cuisine, seafood dishes, organic and farm-fresh produce, traditional recipes, handmade crafts, eco-friendly products and other locally developed culinary offerings.
The Tourism Department has also invited volunteers, artists and cultural groups to participate in the festival through live music, dance performances, poetry recitations, storytelling sessions, skits and instrumental performances as part of the cultural programme.
Interested participants have been asked to submit their applications for stall allotment and participation to the Operational Section of the Directorate of Information, Publicity and Tourism or through email on or before July 14, 2026, by 11 am. The Department said stall allotments will be finalised on the same day to facilitate preparations ahead of the festival.
Officials stated that the festival aims to provide opportunities for local entrepreneurs and community groups while promoting the Islands’ culinary traditions, cultural heritage and locally produced goods before residents and visitors.
The Tourism Department has advised interested applicants to complete the registration process within the stipulated deadline. Those seeking clarification regarding participation or stall allotment may contact the Manager (Operations), Department of Tourism, during office hours.
The second edition of the Monsoon Food & Culture Festival will be held under the theme #MonsoonMagic2026, continuing the annual initiative to promote local culture, food and entrepreneurship through a public festival.
