Government Of Meghalaya Announces Strawberry Festival 2026 Across Three Locations

Celebrate Strawberry Harvest Across Smit, Sohliya, And Tura

The Government of Meghalaya is set to host the Meghalaya Strawberry Festival 2026 across Smit, Sohliya, and Tura, showcasing the State’s growing strawberry sector while providing farmers with direct market access during the peak harvest period.

The festival will take place at Smit Village from February 25–28, 2026. It will then continue in Sohliya and at Darechikgre, Tura from March 4–7, 2026.

Strawberry cultivation in Meghalaya began in Sohliya in 1988 with an initial planting of 50 saplings. Following the introduction of drip irrigation systems in 2004 and continued institutional support, production has grown steadily. The State now produces approximately 1,200 metric tonnes of strawberries each year, with cultivation spread across more than 250 villages and involving over 4,000 farmers.

Backed by government support, the State has improved farmgate prices, launched cold chain infrastructure and processing units, and tied up with IHM Shillong for value-added product development. The Government is also prioritising strategic interventions in high-value fruits and flowers to improve farmers’ incomes. Conrad K. Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, announced in his State Budget FY2026–27 speech that in the next financial year the sweeter Japanese Tochiotome variety will be introduced in Meghalaya. This is expected to further strengthen the State’s market position and significantly multiply returns for strawberry growers.

During the festival, visitors will be able to take part in strawberry picking, farm visits, and tasting sessions. Live performances by artists supported under the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Program and local food stalls will also be part of the programme.

The festival serves as a direct platform for farmers to sell fresh strawberries and value-added products such as jams, juices, desserts, and other processed items. It strengthens farmer-buyer linkages while promoting local entrepreneurship, and also promotes agro-tourism in the State.