Shimla, May 26
The iconic International Summer Festival 2026 in Shimla is set to return with a larger public outreach and a wider range of cultural, sports, and social activities. Unlike previous years, when celebrations were largely limited to the Ridge, this year’s festival will spread across schools, sports grounds, literary platforms, and different parts of the city. Due to Panchayati Raj elections and administrative engagements, the festival will now be held from June 8 to 12.
Addressing a press conference at Shimla’s Savings Hall, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap said the administration aims to transform the event into a “people’s participation festival” involving every section of society. For the first time, visitors will get helicopter joy rides to witness Shimla’s seven hills from the sky. Around 50 schools will participate in the festival through “Shyamla Manthan” Hindi and English speech competitions aimed at promoting leadership qualities and awareness against social evils among students. Attractive cash prizes and running trophies have also been announced for winners.
The festival will also feature “Shimla Swad Mahotsav,” showcasing traditional Himachali cuisine prepared by women’s self-help groups, while an “Anti Chitta Inter District Volleyball Championship” involving teams from all 12 districts will be held in Sanjauli to raise awareness about drug abuse. A film festival highlighting social issues and anti-drug themes will also be held, with the winning short films later planned for screening in schools.
Apart from cultural evenings, the event will include a dog show, flower show, healthy baby competition, international singing contest “Voice of Mountains,” theatre performances, literary gatherings, fashion shows, Zumba sessions, Mallakhamb demonstrations, and an art festival titled “Rangon Ki Duniya.” Tibetan community performances, including the traditional “Cham Dance,” will also add color to the celebrations, making this year’s Shimla Summer Festival one of the most diverse editions so far.
