The much-anticipated Island Tourism Festival (ITF) 2025 is set to return with a vibrant showcase of art, music, and culture across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Scheduled to take place from December 27 to 31, 2025, the event will be organised by the Tourism Department in collaboration with the Art & Culture Department, highlighting local talent through performances at multiple venues across the Islands.
The festival will span 14 venues, including the ITF Ground, Marina Park, Wandoor, Wimberlygunj, Shaheed Dweep, Swaraj Dweep, Hut Bay, Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, Diglipur, Campbell Bay, Nancowry, and Nicobar. The administration aims to ensure that the cultural vibrancy of the festival reaches audiences throughout the archipelago, bringing communities together through music, dance, and traditional art forms.
To encourage local participation, the Art & Culture Department has invited applications from cultural associations and organisations across the Islands that are interested in performing during the five-day event. Each participating group is required to submit details of three to four cultural performances, with a minimum duration of 30 minutes for dance acts and 45 minutes to one hour for singing performances. The details will help the Programme Selection Committee assess and curate a diverse and balanced lineup representing the Islands’ cultural richness.
Performers must be eight years or older, and each group should include a minimum of seven and a maximum of fifteen members. Along with their applications, groups must submit a self-certificate confirming their willingness to perform at any of the designated venues allotted by the Department. This flexibility allows organisers to schedule performances based on logistics, audience capacity, and thematic relevance.
Applications must be submitted by 4 PM on November 14, 2025, either in person at the Directorate of Art & Culture, Cellular Jail Complex, Atlanta Point, Sri Vijaya Puram, or via email at artand.culture@and.nic.in. The prescribed application form and self-certification format are available for download on the Andaman & Nicobar Administration website (https://andamannicobar.gov.in).
Once the applications are received, the Programme Selection Committee will conduct a rehearsal and screening session on December 8 and 9, 2025, at the Andaman Club from 10 AM onwards. Participating troupes are required to be fully prepared to present their performances before the Committee for evaluation. The Department has clarified that any changes in the schedule, venue, or timing of selected groups will be made at its discretion, ensuring smooth coordination across the 14 venues.
Interested organisations can contact Sujit Kumar Roy, GTT (F/A) at 9933241678 during working hours for further clarifications or logistical assistance.
The Island Tourism Festival has long been one of the most anticipated events in the Andaman calendar, offering a platform for local artists to showcase their talent before both island residents and tourists. Beyond entertainment, the festival serves as a celebration of the region’s cultural diversity — from traditional Nicobarese performances to modern fusion music and dance.
This year’s edition is expected to draw larger crowds as the Tourism Department continues to expand the reach of ITF to newer venues. With a focus on inclusivity and representation, the event underscores the Islands’ commitment to cultural preservation and creative expression.
By merging tourism promotion with cultural celebration, ITF 2025 aims to strengthen the Islands’ identity as a destination where natural beauty meets artistic vibrancy. The call for performers signals the start of a festive season that will spotlight homegrown talent and bring the community together under one cultural umbrella.
