Shimla Gears Up for the 2nd Edition of Winter Carnival
The picturesque Ridge in Shimla is set to come alive with colors, flavors, and festivities as the city hosts the second Shimla Winter Carnival from December 24. For ten days, the historic ground will transform into a bustling marketplace, showcasing local talent and crafts.
This year, the Municipal Corporation has approved the setup of around 50 stalls, prioritizing local traders in the allotment process—a step aimed at promoting the region’s artisans and entrepreneurs.
Opportunity for Local Traders
Applications for stall allotments are currently open and can be submitted at the Municipal Corporation office until December 14. Learning from last year’s controversy, where non-local traders reportedly dominated the event, this year’s process has been designed to favor local businesses. Every application will undergo a thorough review, and if applications exceed the stall limit, a lottery system will ensure a fair selection process.
Stall Rules and Rent
To maintain the carnival’s quality, strict guidelines have been issued regarding the items that can be sold. Hosiery goods like clothing, shoes, and specific food products will not be permitted. The rent for a stall is set at ₹5,000 per day, amounting to ₹50,000 for the entire event. Municipal officials are also working on finalizing optimal locations for the stalls on the Ridge to ensure smooth operations and accessibility for visitors.
Reviving Local Business Through the Carnival
A Municipal Corporation official shared, “Our focus this year is to promote local businessmen. Their applications will be verified to ensure transparency in the process.” The official further emphasized the importance of these stalls in enhancing the carnival experience and attracting tourists to Shimla’s winter charm.
As Shimla readies itself for this grand celebration, the Ridge is poised to become a hub of activity, giving both locals and tourists a unique taste of the region’s vibrant culture.
