Island Food Festival 2026 to Showcase Culture, Cuisine and Awareness

Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), April 11 – The Department of Tourism, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, has announced the Island Food Festival 2026, a three-day public cultural and culinary event. Scheduled from April 17 to 19, 2026, at the ITF Ground in Sri Vijaya Puram, the festival is themed "A Celebration of Taste, Culture & Tradition," and aims to highlight the diverse culinary and cultural heritage of the Andaman Islands.

The festival will feature daily cultural programmes from 5 pm to 9 pm, combining entertainment with social awareness messaging. These performances will address contemporary issues related to safety, security, and responsible citizenship, educating and sensitizing audiences through engaging skits and presentations.

Cultural Extravaganza and Community Engagement

The Department of Tourism has invited individuals, cultural associations, and students from local schools and colleges to participate in the cultural segment. Opportunities are available for various art forms, including folk, traditional, and classical dance, contemporary and Bolly-hop performances, singing, skits, puppet shows, instrumental music, self-composed poetry, live band performances, and karaoke. These can be presented in solo, duet, or group formats.

Participants are required to submit program details, artist information, duration, and audio-visual recordings. Selection will be based on performance quality, creativity, originality, group coordination, and relevance to the festival's theme. The Selection Committee's decision will be final and binding. While participation is voluntary and unpaid, selected performers will receive certificates and appreciation mementoes. The Department will provide stage facilities, sound systems, and audience arrangements.

Culinary Innovation: "Cooking without Fire"

In addition to the cultural showcases, the festival will host "Cooking without Fire: A Journey towards Nutritious Living" competitions across all three days. These competitions encourage innovative culinary practices using local ingredients and sustainable methods.

On April 17, competitors will craft "Refresh & Revive – Island Welcome Drinks" using local produce such as mango and coconut. The second day, April 18, will focus on fruit and vegetable carving, utilizing locally available produce to create intricate designs. The final day, April 19, will feature a theme-based cake decoration competition aligned with the festival's central message.

Participants in the cooking competitions must bring their own raw materials, utensils, and ingredients. Only pre-cooked, ready-to-eat, or raw food items are permitted, as no heating devices will be allowed on site. Competitors are advised to report one hour prior to registration. The use of fresh, hygienic, and locally sourced ingredients is highly encouraged. Judging criteria will include creativity, innovation, taste and flavour, presentation, hygiene, and adherence to the theme. Winners in each category will receive awards from the Department of Tourism.

Promoting Local Art, Culture, and Healthy Practices

Officials stated that the festival aims to provide a platform for participants, promoting local art, culture, and healthy culinary practices throughout the islands. Entries for cooking competitions and related inquiries can be directed to designated contact persons within the Department of Tourism. Applications for cultural performances must be submitted via official email and contact channels by April 15, 2026, at 4 pm.

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Island Food Festival 2026 to Showcase Culture, Cuisine and Awareness Programmes in Andaman