Summary of the Event: Norwegian DJ and record producer Alan Walker set the Sunburn Arena stage ablaze at the Shillong International Centre for Performing Arts & Culture, Mawkasiang, on September 28, 2024. The WalkerWorld tour is a sneak peak into the artist’s upcoming album of the same name, which is scheduled to be released on November 11, 2024. Marking Walker’s much-anticipated debut in the state, Shillong was one of the ten stops in India, including Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi NCR, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai, and Kolkata. Alan Walker’s concerts captivate audiences with pulsating beats, stunning visuals, and profound emotions. The concert was a grand success, brought to life through a collaboration between Envision, Spacebound, and BookMyShow, powered by Sunburn Arena. Walker captivated the audience with electrifying performances of his chart-topping hits, including Faded, Alone, On My Way and Darkside. A special highlight of the evening was his collaboration with the Shillong Chamber Choir on the mesmerising track Children of the Sun, adding a unique local flavour to an unforgettable night of music.

Venue: Shillong International Centre for Performing Arts & Culture, Mawkasiang, Shillong.

Date: September 28, 2024.

Time: 3 PM Footfall: 8,200 approx.

List of International Artists: Alan Walker.

List of National Artists: Shillong Chamber Choir.

List of Local Artists: DBRYN, Quills, Sev.

Name of the Event Management Agency: Envision and Opus Productions.

Ticket Prices: General Admission (GA): Rs 2,500 – Rs 5,000.

VIP Access: Rs 800 – Rs 15,000 (includes access to front-row viewing areas and fast-track entry).

VVIP Experience: Rs 25,000 (Backstage tour, meet-and-greet with Alan Walker, and exclusive merchandise).

Ticketing Portals: BookMyShow.

Summary of the Event: The Megha Kayak Festival, an exhilarating extreme watersport competition, was held in Umtham Village, Meghalaya, on October 10-12, 2024. Open to both men and women, the event included the following categories: Downriver Sprint— a high-adrenaline race on a 400-meter-long Class IV section, on the terminator and Ski-jump rapids of Umtrew River. Each kayaker gets two qualification attempts to navigate the challenging course, striving to clock the fastest time. Canoe Slalom Cross, another activity at the competition, is a water race of 200 meters on a boat. Each athlete is allowed one individual qualifying run on the Canoe Slalom Cross course. Other categories include the Under 21 Pro Category, and Intermediate Category.

Venue: Umtham, Ri Bhoi District, Meghalaya

Date: October 10-12, 2024

Time: 9 AM- 5 PM

Footfall: 1500-2000

Registration Fee: Rs 5,000 includes camping in tents at Whitewater Village and all meals from October 12-14, 2024

Registration Portals: meghakayakfest.com

Summary of the Event: In autumn, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, transforms into a mesmerising Sakura wonderland as thousands of cherry blossoms paint the landscape in shades of pink. This breathtaking spectacle draws tourists from across the country, with the autumn-winter months being the best time to experience Meghalaya’s raw beauty and witness the blooming cherry blossoms.

The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, one of the state’s most anticipated events, was held on November 15-16, 2024, at Madan Kurkalang, RBDSA Sports Complex, Bhoirymbong. The festival is a celebration of Meghalaya’s vibrant culture, blending music, fashion, food, and art. From the enchanting pink sakura to performances by international and local artists, the estival offers an unforgettable experience. The 2024 edition boasts a stellar lineup featuring legendary artists such as Akon, Clean Bandit, Boney M, Great Society, and Jessie Lyngdoh among others.

Venue: Madan Kurkalang, RBDSA Sports Complex, Bhoirymbong

Date: November 15-16, 2024

Time: 2 PM onwards

List of International Artists: Akon, Clean Bandit, Boney M, R3hab, Queen Sensation.

List of National Artists: Jasleen Royal, Kanika Kapoor.

List of Local Artists: Great Society, Jessie Lyngdoh, Khasi Bloodz.

Name of the Event Management Agency: Rockski EMG.

Ticket Prices: General Access (GA) INR 4,799 (Access to the Festival Grounds + Japan Zone).

General Access + INR 12,799 (GA access with additional access to FANPIT-B).

VIP INR 10,999 (Access to the elevated VIP Platform with a dedicated F&B section and washrooms in addition to GA access).

VIP+ INR 18,999 (VIP access with additional access to PANPIT- A/B).

Ticketing Portals: BookMyShow, RockstiTicket.

Summary of the Event: The year 2024 marked the fourth edition of the Shillong Literary Festival. An annual celebration held in the city of Shillong, when the Sakura flowers are in full bloom. Since its launch in 2021, the festival has become a vital platform for local and national writers. The Shillong Literary Festival has emerged as an essential platform to celebrate the unique heritage, allowing local poets and writers to share their voices with the wider world. This year’s discussions spanned various genres, from fiction and poetry to non-fiction and cultural studies.  

This festival aimed to provide a platform for aspiring writers, rekindle a love for reading, and integrate fine arts. Highlighting the rich literary traditions of Meghalaya and Northeast India, the festival’s emphasis was placed on promoting local languages and storytelling. The event helped showcase the literary works of local authors giving them more exposure.

Venue: Wards Lake, Shillong.

Date: November 18, 19 & 20, 2024.

Time: 10 AM onwards.

Footfall: 15,000 

List of International Artists: H.E., Mr. Firat Sunel, Ambassador of Turkey to India.

List of National Artists: Vikram Seth,  Jerry Pinto, Shobhaa De, Kaniska Gupta, Sabir Hussain, Roopam Kapoor, Richa Kulkarni, Arupjyoti Saikia, Kaustubh Kumar Deka, Malavika Banerjee, Roopam Kapoor, Abhay Kumar, IFS,  Sanjoy Hazarika, Yeshee Dorjee Thongchi, Madhu Raghavendra, Hannah Lalhlanpuii, Nabina Das, Anil Kumar Bodo, Bikash Rai Debbarma, Abie Alexander, Mitra Phukan, Mayank Shekhar, Anindita Ghose, Saloni Verma, IAS, Elizabeth Kuruvilla, Richa Kulkarni, IAS, Nancy Nisa Beso, Nina Sabnani.

List of Local Artists: Kynpham S Nongkynrih, Janice Pariat, David Laitphlang, Amabel Susngi, Ankush Saikia, Daryll Diengdoh, Cyril. V. D. Diengdoh, IAS, Mario Pathaw, Kenneth Thangkhiew, Janice Pariat, Ramona Sangma, Madeline Y. Tham,Streamlet Dkhar, Basan R. Marak, Moushumi Chakraborty, Benedict Skhemlang Hynniewta, Samrat Choudhury, Avner Pariat, Patricia Mukhim, Janet Dkhar, Ram Kumar, IAS, Sasanbha Lytan, Desmond Kharmawphlang, Samanda Nora Pyngrope, Lalnunsanga Ralte.

Name of the Event Management Agency: Meghalayan Age Limited.

Ticket Prices: ₹100                                                                                                                     Free entry for school, college and university students.

Ticketing Portals: Wards Lake, Shillong. 

Summary of the Event: The Spoken Festival made its debut in 2024, bringing together musicians and poets for enchanting evenings filled with indie-folk melodies and thought-provoking poetry. Designed to provide a platform for local artists and poets, the festival celebrates creative expression in all its forms. Meghalaya, known for its deep-rooted cultural heritage, is steeped in mystic folklore, weaving tales of natural phenomena, age-old beliefs, and captivating bonfire stories—making it the perfect backdrop for this unique artistic gathering. 

Supported by the Tourism Department of Meghalaya and powered by Kommune, the Spoken Fest kicked off with a performance by singer-songwriter, Clayton Hogermeer. It included all things that nourishes the soul, such as, Poetry Recitation, Poetry Buskers, Conversation with the Universe and Spoken Sanctuary. The lineup included an exciting list of poets and storytellers with the likes of Vancouver Shullai, Marbamonlang Rani, Kareema Barry, Laksh Maheshwari and Madhu Raghavendra. The festival was also graced by local artists Meba Ofilia, Khasi Bloodz, and Elena Sohktung.  

Venue: Wards Lake, Shillong.

Date: December 6, 2024.

Time: Day stage: 1:00pm onwards.                                                                              Evening stage: 5:00pm onwards.

Footfall:

List of National Artists: Tillotama Shome, Patralekha, Trinetra Haldar, Laksh Maheshwari,  Merenla Imsong, Anoushka Maskey, When Chai Met Toast, Priya Malik, Amol Parashar, Madhu Raghavendra, Clayton, Lainunsanga Ralte, Kareema Barry.List of Local Artists: Kynpham S Nongkynrih, Janice Pariat, David Laitphlang, Amabel Susngi, Ankush Saikia, Daryll Diengdoh, Cyril. V. D. Diengdoh, IAS, Mario Pathaw, Kenneth Thangkhiew, Janice Pariat, Ramona Sangma, Madeline Y. Tham,Streamlet Dkhar, Basan R. Marak, Moushumi Chakraborty, Benedict Skhemlang Hynniewta, Samrat Choudhury, Avner Pariat, Patricia Mukhim, Janet Dkhar, Ram Kumar, IAS, Sasanbha Lytan, Desmond Kharmawphlang, Samanda Nora Pyngrope, Lalnunsanga Ralte.

Name of the Event Management Agency: Kommune.

Ticket Prices: INR 999

Ticketing Portals: district.in 

Me.Gong Festival

Summary of the Event: Me.Gong Festival 2024, a grand celebration of Garo culture and heritage, was set to take place at Baljek Airport, Jenjal, in West Garo Hills, Tura. The festival unfolded over two days—November 29 and 30, 2024—under the theme “Echoes of Traditions.” With an expected footfall of over three lakh visitors, the event featured an electrifying lineup featuring Swedish rock legends Europe, Indian pop and rock icons Euphoria and Indus Creed, singer Gajendra Verma, and Bollywood actress-turned-DJ Udita Goswami. 

The festival was divided into three primary components—cultural performances and musical showcases, traditional games and sports competitions, and exhibitions of handlooms, handicrafts, and indigenous cuisine. Visitors also looked forward to a special traditional fashion show highlighting tribal attire and handwoven fabrics of Northeast India, with a focus on Garo heritage. 

Me.Gong Festival has consistently drawn massive crowds, with previous editions welcoming over 2.3 lakh attendees and featuring renowned artists like Vengaboys, Armaan Malik, Parikrama, and MLTR (Michael Learns to Roc k) in 2022. The 2024 edition continued its tradition of promoting local talent, with performances by Garo Hills-based rock band Da Suraka and Shillong’s folk fusion band Summer Salt. 

More than just a music festival, Me.Gong 2024 envisions itself as a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together local communities, artists, artisans, and culture enthusiasts. With a stellar lineup of national and international performers, the festival promised an unforgettable celebration of Garo traditions and Meghalaya’s vibrant artistic spirit. 

Venue: Baljek Airport, Jengjal (Near Tura) West Garo Hills, Meghalaya.

Date: November 29-30, 2024.

Time: 11 AM onwards.

Footfall: 2,00,000.

List of International Artists: Europe.

List of National Artists: Indus Creed, Euphoria, Gajendra Verma, Udita Goswami.

List of Local Artists: Da Sukara, Haystack Ladies.

Name of the Event Management Agency: VAS.INC.

Ticket Prices: Camping Package: INR 1,000- INR 2,999.

Ticketing Portals: district.in

Summary of the Event: The highly anticipated fifth edition of the Hills Festival returned on December 6-7, 2024, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Umiam Lake. Supported by Meghalaya Tourism, the festival brought together music, art, food, and adventure, offering an immersive experience for audiences of all ages. Renowned for its family- and pet-friendly atmosphere, the event catered to music lovers, food enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. 

This year’s stellar lineup featured rapper Yashraj, Melbourne-based guitarist Ro Han from I Built The Sky, Khasi folk band Mookhuri, and international artists such as Tiana Khasi, Lis, and Robu. Alongside these performances, local talent and experimental genres also took centre stage. 

The festival unfolded across two dynamic stages—the Hills Live Stage, which showcased acoustic, folk, and band performances against the serene Umiam Lake, and the Electric Hills Stage, which pulsed with high-energy beats and experimental sounds, perfect for late-night revelry. 

Adding to the experience, The Forage Aisle, curated by Chef Nambie Jessica Marak and Team Roma Eatery, presented innovative dishes inspired by Meghalaya’s wild edibles. Meanwhile, Sunrise Hillsfeat featured over 20 local food entrepreneurs, offering traditional meals and delicacies that highlighted the rich culinary heritage of the state. 

Venue: Lum Er Pyngngad Umbir, Ri Bhoi.

Date: December 6-7, 2024.

Time: 12 PM onwards.

Footfall: 7,000 approx

List of International Artists: I Built the Sky, Tiana Khasi, Yung.

List of National Artists: Yashraj, Ishan, Lis.

List of Local Artists: Rasa, Robu, Aiom, Brian, Insowmya, Cassidy Godwin, Dixie Boyzz, Kim the Beloved, Maya Lyngdoh, DJ Meban, Mookhuri, Murder in Space, Penny Plan, Walter, Sev.

Name of the Event Management Agency:

Ticket Prices: INR 2,000.

Ticketing Portals: BookMyShow.

Summary of the Event: Legendary Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams brought his highly anticipated India Tour 2024 to the scenic city of Shillong, delivering an electrifying concert that left music lovers spellbound. For decades, Adams’ timeless hits—“(Everything I Do) I Do It for You,” “Please Forgive Me,” and the iconic “Summer of ’69”—have been the soundtrack of countless lives, capturing the essence of first loves, heartbreaks, and cherished memories. In Shillong, he rekindled that magic on stage, captivating the audience with his signature energy and soulful melodies. 

Venue: JN Stadium, Polo Ground, Shillong.

Date: December 10, 2024.

Time: 4 PM – 11 PM.

Footfall: 31,500.

List of International Artists: Bryan Adams.

Name of the Event Management Agency: BookMyShow (and Opus Production as local event managers).

Ticket Prices: General Access- INR 1,500.                                                                               VIP Access – INR 19,999.

Ticketing Portals: Zomato Live.

Summary of the Event: Winter Tales 2024 brought the festive spirit to life, marking the beginning of the Christmas season with a celebration of Meghalaya’s indigenous narratives and artistic heritage. The festival showcased the region’s rich culture while promoting sustainability, reflecting the community’s deep connection with the land. Known for their resourcefulness, the people of Meghalaya uphold their role as guardians of the environment, demonstrating innovative ways of utilizing natural resources. 

Centered around the theme “homegrown, handpicked, and handcrafted,” the festival supported local entrepreneurs by featuring a diverse selection of handicrafts, handlooms, music, cuisine, art, literature, and more. Visitors explored a vibrant marketplace where talented vendors, craftsmen, artisans, and musicians came together, creating an atmosphere that was both intimate and lively. 

Beyond shopping and performances, Winter Tales 2024 offered a range of immersive experiences. Guests indulged in traditional and contemporary flavors, enjoyed soulful music, and engaged in creative workshops. Whether drawn to art, food, or music, attendees found something to cherish. The festival not only provided a magical night out but also fostered a deeper appreciation for Meghalaya’s culture, ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations. 

Venue: Wards Lake, Shillong.

Date: November 12-14, 2024.

Time: 11 AM – 10 PM.

Footfall: 4,800.

List of Local Artists: Na U Bnai, Sur Na Nongkyndong, Da Minot, Strait Brothers, Jessie Lyngdoh, Leo Boys, Wanjop Sohkhlet, Jamelle & The Pinefolks, Melodies of the Hills, Da-La-Riti, Summersalt, Eddie Lyngdoh, Quiet Storm, Quills, Ahaia, Flat V, Seingriti Wahkhen, Mookhuri Folk Band, Sikamoa, Maya Lyngdoh, Grassroots, Blue Temptation, Lil Mama Tips x Dubfvader, DJ Knack.  

Name of the Event Management Agency:

Ticket Prices: Day Pass: ₹200.                                                                                                  Season Pass : ₹500.

Ticketing Portals: wintertales.in .

Summary of the Event: India’s EDM experience reached new heights as Sunburn Arena brought multi-award-winning, platinum-selling producer and world-renowned DJ Afrojack to the stage for two unforgettable shows in January 2025. Known for global chart-toppers and legendary collaborations like “Give Me Everything Tonight,” “Run The World (Girls),” and co-writing the worldwide smash “Titanium,” Afrojack set India ablaze with his electrifying performance in Shillong. From headlining the world’s biggest festivals to crafting anthems that dominate dance floors, he has solidified his place as one of the most influential artists in electronic music. 

Afrojack’s impact on EDM has been undeniable, with chart-topping hits like “Take Over Control,” “Hey Mama,” and “No Beef.” As a Grammy Award-winning artist, he has earned global acclaim, making him a true phenomenon in the industry. His return to India brought a high-energy Sunburn Arena experience, blending pulsating beats with immersive visuals in a mesmerizing live set. 

Fans in Shillong witnessed a spectacle of cutting-edge visuals, high-octane energy, and heart-thumping bass drops that defined the magic of Afrojack LIVE. With Sunburn Arena’s state-of-the-art production and India’s unmatched dance music enthusiasm, the tour was more than just a concert—it was a journey that left an everlasting impact on EDM lovers across the country. 

Venue:

Date: January 18, 2025.

Time: 4 PM.

Footfall: 

List of International Artists: Afroack.

Name of the Event Management Agency: Sunburn.

Ticket Prices: Starting at INR 1000.

Ticketing Portals: BookMyShow, viagogo.

Summary of the Event: British musician Ed Sheeran made history on February 12, 2025, in Shillong as he graced the stage with unforgettable tracks at the Mathematics Tour. It marked his much anticipated debut performance in the city. Delivering an intimate yet monumental experience, with fans enthusiastically singing along to Ed Sheeran’s hits. A global phenomenon, Sheeran, known for chart-dominating anthems like “Perfect”, “Shape of You” and “Thinking out Loud” captivated the city with his signature loop station artistry, coupled with a carefully curated setlist, created an unforgettable experience.  

Produced and promoted by AEG Presents Asia and BookMyShow Live who are working to bring world-class performance to various Indian cities. The concert underscored Shillong’s emergence as a significant destination on the global music circuit, solidifying its reputation as a music loving city for world class entertainment. 

Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Polo, Shillong.

Date: February 12, 2025.

Time: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM.

Footfall: 26,000.

List of International Artists: Ed Sheeran.

List of National Artists: Kayan.

Name of the Event Management Agency: BookMyShow (and Circus Entertainment as local event managers).

Ticket Prices: INR 1,200 – INR 10,000.

Ticketing Portals: BookMyShow, Viagogo.

Summary of the Event: SkillBox brought back the Bloomverse Festival for its 3rd edition in 2025, set against the stunning landscapes of Meghalaya. Celebrating the arrival of spring, the festival provided a vibrant platform for alternative, subculture, and independent music and art enthusiasts. 

Having previously hosted artists like Anuv Jain, The Midnight, The Yellow Diary, Lifafa, BLOT!, and talented Northeastern acts such as Lucid Recess, Bishrut Saikia, Meba Ofilia, and Polar Lights, this edition was the most exciting yet. The legendary rock band Mr. Big headlined the festival on February 14, 2025, in Meghalaya, marking a historic moment in the region’s music scene. 

As part of their farewell BIG Finish Tour, Mr. Big—featuring Eric Martin (vocals), Paul Gilbert (guitar), and Billy Sheehan (bass)—delivered an electrifying set, performing their million-selling album Lean Into It in full, along with other classics. 

Like previous editions, Bloomverse 2025 featured a stellar mix of local and national acts alongside diverse festivities, making it a true celebration of music, art, and culture. The festival once again cemented itself as a must-attend event in Meghalaya’s cultural calendar. 

Venue: Lum Er Pyngngad, Umbir, Meghalaya.

Date: February 14, 2025.

Time: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM.

Footfall: 

List of International Artists: Eric Martin, Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheeran.

List of National Artists: Girish and the Chronicles, Slain.

Name of the Event Management Agency: Bloomverse.

Ticket Prices: INR 1,999- INR 3,499.

Ticketing Portals: Skillbox.