The much-anticipated Island Tourism Festival 2025 is set to return with a five-day celebration of culture, heritage and development, with events scheduled across multiple locations in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from December 27 to 31.
Hosted annually by the Directorate of Information, Publicity and Tourism in association with the Directorate of Art and Culture and other departments of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, the festival is a flagship event held each December to showcase the islands’ cultural diversity and developmental progress.
The main venue for the festival will be the ITF Ground at Sri Vijaya Puram, where large-scale cultural performances, exhibitions and public activities are planned throughout the five days. In addition to the central venue, programmes will also be organised across South Andaman, North and Middle Andaman, and the Nicobar group of islands, expanding the festival’s reach to residents in remote areas.
In South Andaman, cultural events are scheduled at Marina Esplanade, Wandoor, Wimberlygunj, Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep and Hut Bay. North and Middle Andaman will host programmes at Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder and Diglipur, while Car Nicobar, Nancowrie and Campbell Bay will serve as venues in the Nicobar group of islands. The decentralised format is aimed at ensuring wider participation and access to festival activities.
The festival will feature a range of cultural performances, including traditional music, dance and folk art forms that reflect the islands’ diverse communities. Alongside stage programmes, exhibitions highlighting local craftsmanship, art and heritage are planned to offer visitors an immersive cultural experience.
Several popular events are set to return as part of the festival schedule, including the Healthy Baby Show, Flower Show, Pet Show and Rangoli competitions, organised by different government departments. These activities are designed to encourage community participation while highlighting social awareness themes.
Government departments will also set up stalls at the festival grounds to showcase developmental initiatives and public welfare programmes implemented across the islands. Self-Help Groups will be provided space to display and sell local handicrafts and homemade products, offering a platform for community-based entrepreneurship.
As in previous editions, food courts will form a key attraction, offering a variety of cuisines and local delicacies. Fun games and activities for children are also planned to add to the festive atmosphere, making the event family-oriented.
A Hasya Kavi Sammelan is scheduled to be organised by the Department of Official Language, continuing a tradition that has drawn consistent public interest in earlier editions. The event is expected to add a literary and entertainment dimension to the festival lineup.
Preparations at the ITF Ground are currently underway, with arrangements being made for stages, stalls and visitor facilities. Officials indicated that the venue is witnessing heightened activity as departments coordinate logistics and programme schedules.
The general public has been invited to attend the festival and participate in the range of cultural, culinary and recreational activities on offer. With its mix of performances, exhibitions and community engagement, the Island Tourism Festival 2025 is expected to serve as a major year-end attraction for residents and visitors alike.
