Shimla Winter Carnival: A Historic Celebration Boosting Himachal's Tourism

Shimla Winter Carnival: A Historic Celebration Boosting Himachal's Tourism

By Author

Published on December 29, 2023

In a significant move to rejuvenate the tourism sector, the Himachal Pradesh government kicked off the inaugural Shimla Winter Carnival, a 12-day celebration aimed at uplifting the spirits of the hill state. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the event at the historic Ridge, marking a historic moment for the city.

The winter carnival holds special significance as it comes on the heels of a challenging period for Himachal Pradesh's tourism industry, severely impacted by the recent monsoon disruptions. Chief Minister Sukhu, during the inauguration, acknowledged the adverse effects of the monsoon fury but expressed optimism about the state's recovery. He highlighted the influx of 30,000 tourist vehicles in the past days as a promising sign of the tourism industry's revival.

Emphasizing the government's commitment to promoting tourism, Chief Minister Sukhu announced a substantial increase in the budget for the tourism sector, reaching Rs. 3,000 crores from the previous Rs. 50 crores. This financial boost aims to support the recovery efforts and further elevate Himachal Pradesh as a preferred tourist destination.

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To facilitate a seamless experience for visitors, the state government has permitted all restaurants, dhabas, and food shops to remain open 24 hours from December 20, 2023, to January 5, 2024. This move is aligned with the government's focus on providing a warm welcome to tourists and enhancing their overall experience in the state.

The Winter Carnival promises an array of attractions, including cultural parades, folk dance performances like Mahanati, and exhibitions featuring local dishes and cultural programs. The carnival, set to conclude on January 5, 2024, is strategically timed during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, adding to the festive atmosphere in Shimla.

Apart from being a delightful experience for tourists, the carnival aims to celebrate Himachal Pradesh's rich cultural heritage. Cultural programs such as Kullavi Nati and Singtu of Sirmaur district were presented, contributing to the vibrant celebration. The event, graced by dignitaries, including Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh and Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, is expected to have a positive economic impact on the state.

The Shimla Winter Carnival signifies a turning point for Himachal Pradesh's tourism, ushering in hope, festive cheer, and a promising outlook for the future.


The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace Hosts Carnival of Smiles Children's Day Brunch

The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace Hosts Carnival of Smiles Children's Day Brunch

By Hariharan U

Published on November 14, 2026

The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace is marking Children's Day with 'Carnival of Smiles', a special family brunch at Seasonal Tastes on November 15, 2026, featuring playful activities, interactive food experiences and entertainment for young guests.

Centred on the spirit of childhood, the Sunday brunch will combine a dedicated children's food fiesta with creative experiences and carnival-inspired entertainment. The menu will include familiar favourites such as mini burgers, pasta and pizzas, alongside a live pancake and waffle counter and a selection of specially curated desserts.

Children will also have the opportunity to get hands-on with food through pizza-making and cupcake art activities, where they can create their own treats as part of the afternoon's programme.

Beyond the dining experience, the celebration will feature face painting, balloon art, magic shows, mascot appearances and interactive games. A themed Little Stars Photo Booth, complete with props, frames and a Children's Day backdrop, will give families an opportunity to capture moments from the celebration.

Young guests will also receive giveaways to take home as keepsakes. The programme is intended to give children space to play, create and explore, while parents enjoy a relaxed Sunday afternoon with family.

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With its combination of food stations, creative activities and carnival entertainment, Carnival of Smiles offers families an opportunity to celebrate Children's Day through a shared dining and leisure experience at the hotel.

Experience Details

  • Event: Carnival of Smiles – Children's Day Brunch

  • Venue: Seasonal Tastes, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace, Hyderabad

  • Date: Sunday, November 15, 2026

  • Time: 12:30 PM–4:00 PM


Marriott Executive Apartments Hyderabad Celebrates Christmas with Children from Aashri Society

Marriott Executive Apartments Hyderabad Celebrates Christmas with Children from Aashri Society

By Hariharan U

Published on November 14, 2026

Marriott Executive Apartments Hyderabad welcomed the Christmas season with a traditional Cake Mixing Ceremony at Mazzo, bringing together guests, hotel associates and children from Aashri Society for an afternoon of festive activities and shared celebrations.

Held on November 13, the gathering centred on the familiar Christmas tradition of mixing fruits and other ingredients in preparation for the festive season. Participants joined in the ritual, creating a lively atmosphere that combined seasonal traditions with opportunities for community participation.

The celebrations extended beyond the cake-mixing activity, with a festive spread featuring spiced mulled wine, rich hot chocolate, freshly prepared cakes and pizzas. The food and beverages added to the seasonal atmosphere, giving guests and participants an opportunity to enjoy the occasion together.

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For the children from Aashri Society, the afternoon included a range of interactive activities. A dedicated juice-mixing station allowed them to create their own fruit-based blends, while pottery and hand-painting sessions encouraged creativity and hands-on participation.

Freshly spun cotton candy and popcorn added to the excitement, while the children also took part in the cake-mixing ceremony, becoming an integral part of the hotel's festive gathering.

The celebration marked the beginning of the Christmas season at Marriott Executive Apartments Hyderabad, with a focus on bringing people together through familiar traditions, food and shared experiences.

By including children from Aashri Society in the festivities, the hotel extended the occasion beyond a conventional seasonal gathering, creating an opportunity for participation, creativity and moments of connection.


Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Presents Toon Town Children's Day Brunch

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Presents Toon Town Children's Day Brunch

By Hariharan U

Published on November 14, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal is celebrating Children's Day with Toon Town Brunch, a cartoon-inspired dining experience at The Hebbal Cafe on November 22, 2026. Bringing together colourful food, familiar favourites and a playful atmosphere, the brunch invites children and families to enjoy an afternoon of food and togetherness.

Inspired by the imaginative world of cartoons and childhood favourites, the special brunch has been curated by Executive Chef Kalpesh Kature. The menu features a selection of child-friendly dishes, combining familiar flavours with bite-sized preparations suited to younger diners.

The savoury spread includes Mini Rainbow Vegetable Sandwiches, Cheese Quesadillas, Mini Margherita Pizza and Macaroni and Cheese. Young guests can also enjoy Crispy Chicken Popcorn, Mini Cheese Sliders and Fish Fingers with Tartar Sauce, adding a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to the menu.

For dessert, Mini Pancakes with Chocolate Sauce offer a sweet finish to the meal, giving little food explorers another treat to look forward to.

Designed as a family outing, Toon Town Brunch also offers adults an opportunity to revisit the simple pleasures of childhood while spending time with their little ones. With its playful theme and familiar menu choices, the experience centres on shared moments around the table.

Event Details

  • Event: Toon Town Brunch

  • Venue: The Hebbal Cafe, Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal

  • Date: November 22, 2026

  • Time: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM

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