NAC FEST 2025: Kathmandu Valley Unites in a Grand CelebrationMonday, August 25th, 2025

A landmark festival set to turn the Valley into a vibrant showcase of heritage—bringing together rituals, performances, flavors, and craftsmanship.

This September, the Kathmandu Valley will turn into a vibrant showcase of art, music, rituals, and cuisine as the Nepal Art & Culture Festival 2025 (NAC FEST) makes its grand debut.

Jointly organized by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), the Nepal Art Council, and five historic cities, the three-week festival will be held from 5–27 September under the theme “Celebrating Nepal’s Art, Culture, Cuisine, and Heritage.”

The event unites two metropolitan cities and two municipalities, alongside tourism associations and cultural organizations, with the aim of connecting past and present through living traditions and offering a new platform for cultural tourism.

“This festival is designed to highlight Nepal’s living heritage,” said Deepak Raj Joshi, NTB CEO. “It will showcase the country as a cultural and heritage treasure for both Nepali and global audiences.”

The festival begins in Kathmandu on 5 September with the Kathmandu Mahanagar Jatra Yatra, the art exhibition Roots & Reflections at the Nepal Art Council Gallery, and cultural performances at Hanuman Dhoka.

Bhaktapur follows on 7 September, offering guided heritage walks, pottery workshops, authentic Newa cuisine, and a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony.

From 8–10 September, Kathmandu will host the “Made in Kathmandu” Fair, featuring local products, food stalls, photography exhibitions, and the UNESCO Creative City of Film Challenge.

On 13 September, Hadigaun takes center stage with a cultural walk exploring its 2,000-year-old legacy, ending with traditional feasts.

Kirtipur will celebrate from 18–20 September with community processions, folk dances, and local culinary delights.

On 21 September, Thamel invites visitors to explore its vibrant nightlife through a guided walk with complimentary drinks and snacks.

The finale will take place in Patan from 23–27 September, featuring Dhime Baja drumming, Bhajan singing, Lakhe dances, Paubha painting displays, Kumari traditions, craft demonstrations, and a lively night market offering sweets, wines, and festive foods. The closing ceremony at Patan Museum will include a cultural procession, performances, and a farewell dinner.

In total, over 40 events are scheduled, according to festival coordinator Ayusha Shrestha, who noted that NAC FEST aligns with Indra Jatra, further enriching the Valley’s celebratory atmosphere.