Nagaland: Dimapur Night Carnival 2025 concludes

The 13th Dimapur Night Carnival, held as an extension of the Hornbill Festival activities from December 6 to 10, concluded on Wednesday.
The five-day carnival attracted thousands and showcased a vibrant mix of music, culture, food, and local entrepreneurship. The event was jointly organised by the district administration, Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) and the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI). The venue stretched from Clock Tower to Police Point (Holy Cross School) and operated daily from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Since day-one the event has been attracting huge crowds while remaining peaceful.
Speaking as special guest on the last day of the event, Dr. Sukhato A. Sema, MLA, described the Night Carnival as an important platform for youth engagement, business promotion, and community bonding.
He expressed appreciation to DMC, DCCI, district administration, partner agencies, volunteers, security personnel, churches and youth organisations for their collective efforts in making the event a success.
Dr. Sema observed how the carnival space had been transformed into a lively, secure environment welcoming families, entrepreneurs, artists, and visitors, embodying Dimapur’s role as Nagaland’s commercial and cultural hub. He further noted that the Hornbill Festival continues to live up to its reputation as the “Festival of Festivals,” drawing audiences nationwide and internationally to experience indigenous games, music, cultural performances, and entrepreneurial talent.
Emphasising its global resonance, Dr. Sema described the Hornbill and its extension events as a window into Nagaland’s creativity, unity, and cultural excellence. He acknowledged the leadership of the chief minister in elevating the festival into a multinational platform, opening livelihood opportunities, particularly for youth.
Earlier, delivering welcome address DMC chairman Hukheto Yepthomi acknowledged the dedication of all stakeholders, participants and security forces who contributed to a safe and successful event.
The closing ceremony was led by Achum Jami, councillor of Ward-14, DMC. The programme began with an invocation by Onen Aier, Deacon of Dimapur Ao Baptist Arogo (DABA).
A special song by Aplo added a musical touch to the evening’s proceedings.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Neingutoulie Kenguruse, convenor of the Dimapur Night Carnival 2025 and Councillor of Ward-2.
As part of the closing, awards were presented outstanding stalls for food, customer service and creativity. First prize was bagged to Stall No. 125, Stall No. 87 and stall No.29 was bagged second and third place. Consolation awards were bagged to stall Nos. 78, 56, 99, 60, 86, 102, 04, 18, 36, 37.