Building on the success of the inaugural Cherry Blossom Festival in 2023, Longkhum village in Mokokchung is eagerly preparing to host the second edition of this celebrated event, set for November 27-29, 2024. This year, the festival theme, ‘In Unison with Nature,’ highlights the community’s dedication to environmental harmony and cultural pride. The preparations have brought the entire community together, with locals from every corner of the village joining hands to transform the village into a festive wonderland.
Villagers are hard at work constructing traditional style morungs—communal huts that represent the essence of Naga heritage—as well as building stages and stalls that will display local crafts, foods, and cultural showcases. Trails through the scenic cherry blossom groves are being cleared, while roads and pathways are improved to ensure that visitors have an unforgettable experience exploring the beauty of Longkhum. This year, the festival’s logistics have also been upgraded, with expanded parking areas to accommodate the anticipated increase in attendance.
The 2023 festival attracted over 8,000 visitors. According to inside sources, the 2024 festival is poised to be even bigger, with organizers preparing additional cultural programs, food stalls, and exhibitions that will showcase the unique traditions and natural beauty of the region. With the community’s enthusiasm and meticulous preparations, the Cherry Blossom Festival is set to become an even more spectacular event, inviting people from all over to come together and celebrate in unison with nature.