By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 24: Shillong has come alive in festive splendour as the city celebrates Christmas with dazzling lights, vibrant decorations, and a warm, joyful atmosphere that is drawing large numbers of locals and tourists alike.
From the State Central Library premises to IGP Point, Khyndai Lad, and Laitumkhrah, residents and visitors can be seen thronging the streets to witness the illuminated cityscape. Colourful fairy lights, themed decorations, and festive ornaments have transformed Shillong into a visual delight, making it one of the most sought-after Christmas destinations in the region.
Adding to the festive spirit, carol groups can be heard singing during the evening hours at the carnival venues, filling the air with joy, unity, and celebration. However, the festive rush has also caused heavy traffic congestion, particularly on roads leading to Khyndai Lad, the city’s major commercial hub, as people gather in large numbers to admire the decorations.
Over the past three years, Khyndai Lad has emerged as the cynosure of all eyes during Christmas. This year, festive cheer has extended beyond traditional hotspots, with people also seen clicking photographs at IGP Point and other newly decorated locations.
Visitors during the festive season are not limited to the city alone. They can be seen across the scenic hill state, including Khasi-Jaintia and Garo Hills regions, with footfall increasing steadily each day.
Sharing his experience, Joel Kyndiah, a local resident now based in Kolkata, said this was his first Christmas in Shillong after a long time. He noted that the city feels extremely festive this year, with events like the Christmas Carnival greatly enhancing community spirit by bringing together residents, visitors, and tourists.
He said the stretch from Police Bazaar to Laitumkhrah has been beautifully decorated, with the angels at the Police Bazaar roundabout standing out in particular.
According to him, these symbols reflect not only the religious aspect of Christmas but also values of hope, renewal, and compassion. He added that the decorations help promote Shillong as a major Christmas tourist destination in India and stressed the need for sustained efforts and regular festive events across the city.
Another local resident, Jyoti Agarwal, described this year’s Christmas lights as truly splendid, calling them “awesome”. She said decorations earlier were largely confined to Police Bazaar, but this time, the entire city is illuminated. She praised the government’s efforts, stating that events like the Wine Carnival have further enriched the celebrations, while suggesting better traffic management and pedestrian-only zones during peak festive days.
Tourists too have expressed their admiration for the festive atmosphere. Mazbin Jannat from Assam said Shillong is a wonderful place to visit during Christmas and New Year, noting that the city looks extremely colourful and is perfect for photography.
She appreciated the creativity behind the decorations, especially the red ribbons and white lights, and enjoyed visiting places like Police Bazaar, Assam Bazaar, shopping malls, churches, and tourist spots such as Seven Sisters Falls.
A tourist from Mumbai, Deepak Shinde, said he loved how the streets are adorned with twinkling lights and beautiful decorations. He added that he has shared the beauty of Shillong’s Christmas lighting with his friends and hopes to return with a group next year.
P. Deka, another visitor from Assam, said this was his first time celebrating Christmas in Shillong. He added that the experience reminded him of the festive celebrations he had witnessed while studying abroad.
Local resident Wansukshisha Nongspung welcomed the government’s initiative, saying that the lively decorations have encouraged people to step out and enjoy the festive season.
She observed that when people think of Christmas in Shillong, they expect a vibrant and lively celebration, which the city has successfully delivered. According to her, visitors from states such as Kerala, Delhi, and Mumbai are increasingly looking forward to spending Christmas in Shillong.
As the festive season continues and footfall rises, Shillong stands radiant—celebrating Christmas not just as a festival, but as a shared experience of joy, community, and togetherness that transcends boundaries.
