The second edition of the much-awaited Island Coconut Festival 2025 will open on October 9 at 3 pm at the ITF Ground, Sri Vijaya Puram. Organised by the Department of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration in collaboration with allied departments, the two-day event is themed “Celebrating Coconut – Culture, Cuisine & Crafts of the Islands.”
The festival is designed as a vibrant showcase of island heritage, highlighting the central role of coconut in local life. Visitors can look forward to folk performances, coconut-based culinary contests, and a display of handicrafts crafted from coconut and other natural materials. The event is also expected to serve as an important platform for Self Help Groups (SHGs) and local entrepreneurs to promote indigenous products, boost sales, and gain wider recognition.
Open daily from 3 pm to 10 pm, the festival offers a lively mix of culture, cuisine, and creativity. Beyond entertainment, the programme includes a range of participatory competitions organised to engage the community. The Tourism Department, in association with the Agriculture Department, will hold de-husking contests for both men and women. Competitions for best artworks and handicrafts made from coconut tree parts will also feature prominently, encouraging innovation and craftsmanship.
An on-the-spot cooking competition will allow participants to showcase culinary skills, with cash prizes awarded to winners. Meanwhile, the Education and Sports Department has set up activity zones for all ages, including a chess corner and a painting and drawing area. To encourage participation, crayons and stationery for the art contests will be provided by the Tourism Department.
Officials have urged the public to attend the festival in large numbers, not only to enjoy the cultural and culinary experiences but also to support local talent and businesses. With its blend of tradition and community participation, the Island Coconut Festival 2025 aims to reinforce the cultural fabric of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands while celebrating the enduring significance of the coconut.
