By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 28: To celebrate Meghalaya’s growing success in strawberry farming, a two-day Strawberry Festival will be held on May 2 and 3 across three locations in the state.
Organised by Meghalayan Age Limited in collaboration with the Departments of Tourism and Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, the festival aims to promote agro-tourism and strengthen rural livelihoods.
The event will take place simultaneously at Syntung in East Khasi Hills, Sohliya in Ri-Bhoi district and Darechigre in West Garo Hills—regions where strawberry cultivation has seen significant growth in recent years.
Visitors will get the chance to pick fresh strawberries directly from the farms and experience rural life up close. Stalls featuring a range of strawberry products, including wines, jams, ice creams and traditional cakes, will be set up to showcase the versatility of the fruit.
Workshops on jam-making and baking strawberry-based treats will add an educational and fun dimension to the festival.
Live performances by local musicians under the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project, along with cultural events celebrating the state’s traditions, are also lined up.
For adventure enthusiasts, activities like cycling, trekking, and glamping will be organised, alongside sessions on traditional winemaking, local beverages, and organic farming methods.
In 2023, the state government launched a drive to boost strawberry cultivation by providing planting materials and saplings to farmers. As a result, Meghalaya’s strawberry production rose to 1,220 metric tonnes in 2024, compared to 1,196 metric tonnes the previous year.