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Can we replicate Hadigaun festival, and the similar ones in Bhaktapur/thimi across all the towns of Kathmandu valley? Can we make it so that there’s always some big festival or other going somewhere near the valley? The goal would be to increase business sales, trigger better consumption, and get tourists spending more money!

• Festivals can be held at the ward level in Kathmandu and Lalitpur twice/thrice a year, each lasting one or two days.
• The main issues that we’re targeting to fix are are low community engagement, frequent littering, and apathy among young adults toward local politics.
• Each festival will feature:
  • Competitions (dance, singing, art, cooking)
  • Educational workshops on the environment, civic engagement, and skills
  • Performances by local musicians, artists, and cultural groups
  • Booths for local businesses to display products and services
  • Exhibits by community organizations
  • Food stalls with local cuisine
• Expected outcomes:
  • More interaction among residents and a stronger sense of belonging
  • Greater civic participation through discussions and workshops
  • Economic boost for local businesses and the neighborhood
  • Encouragement of responsible waste management, reducing litter
  • Celebration of local culture and traditions
• Funding and sustainability plan:
  • Initial municipal support for equipment and infrastructure
  • Sponsorships from local businesses
  • Voluntary community contributions
  • Revenue from stall fees, ticketed events, and tourism interest
  • Potential grants and NGO partnerships
• Implementation steps:
  • Each ward forms a committee of residents, businesses, and organizations to plan and manage the festival
  • Community volunteers are recruited for logistics and operations
  • Transparent communication and financial reporting are maintained
• Impact will be measured by:
  • Attendance and volunteer participation rates
  • Changes in litter levels and waste collection data
  • Voter registration and turnout statistics
  • Surveys of resident and business satisfaction
• Anticipated challenges and solutions:
  • Funding – use diversified revenue streams and seek grants
  • Venue – use parks, schools, community centers, rotating locations
  • Safety – collaborate with police, plan crowd control, and emergency protocols
  • Waste management – partner with waste companies and set clear disposal signage
  • Community engagement – outreach through media, leaders, and social platforms
  • Volunteer motivation – provide clear roles, training, recognition, and team events
  • Weather and other contingencies – have backup venues or postponement plans

These festivals can revitalize neighborhood spirit, encourage civic involvement, and support local culture and economy.