Women-Led Dashain Festival Brings Communities Together for Local Shopping

Nepal: The Bada Dashain Festival 2025 takes place on September 19 and 20 at Hotel Amuprastha and Banquet, operating from 10 am to 7 pm each day. The Women Entrepreneurs Association organizes this Dashain Festival with Creative Nepal under the Digital Business Entrepreneurs forum. This celebration connects local producers, artisans, and families during Nepal’s most significant holiday season.

Over 60 stalls will feature homemade goods, organic products, handicrafts, traditional items, indigenous crafts, Nepali clothing, and local cuisine at this Dashain Festival. The event includes a food section serving momos and children’s entertainment such as games and face painting. This free festival welcomes visitors of all ages.

The timing of this Dashain Festival carries deep significance for organizers. Following a national tragedy on September 8 that left many people mourning, organizer Sangeeta Rayamajhi shared their motivation: “We were all drowned in grief, and the spirit of our entrepreneurs was broken. But with time, we realised one truth-life does not stop. In such difficult times, it felt necessary to bring some hope, light, and reason to smile.”

This Dashain Festival aims to recreate the community atmosphere that once flourished in villages during traditional celebrations. In rural settings, people gathered in common areas to eat, trade, and celebrate together. The event brings this village spirit into urban spaces, allowing city communities to experience authentic festive connections.

The women entrepreneurs organizing this Dashain Festival provide crucial support for local business owners while maintaining cultural heritage. Their platform allows small producers and artisans to connect directly with customers. This approach strengthens the local economy while preserving traditional manufacturing and food preparation techniques.

Families attending the Dashain Festival can experience genuine Nepali culture through diverse products and activities. The blend of shopping opportunities and entertainment creates an inclusive environment for different age groups and interests throughout the celebration.