Table of Contents – KP GB Festivals 2026
- Introduction to KP & Gilgit-Baltistan Festivals
- Winter Sports Festival – Madaklasht, Chitral (February)
- Frontier Food Festival – Peshawar (March–April)
- Jashan-e-Nauroz – Gilgit-Baltistan/Chitral (March 21–23)
- Babusar Cup Polo Tournament & Mountain Bike Race – Babusar Pass (March)
- Swat Paragliding Cup – Swat (March)
- KP Cuisine & Culture Festival – D.I. Khan (April)
- Qaqlasht Festival (Jashn-e-Qaqlasht) – Chitral (April 1st Week)
- Kalash Spring Festival (Joshi) – Kalash, Chitral (May 14–15)
- Jashn-e-Kurram – Parachinar (May)
- Gandhara Festival – Peshawar (May)
- Swat Marathon – Swat (June)
- Shandur Polo Festival – Shandur (July 5–13)
- Uchal or Ucho (Kalash Festival) – Kalash, Chitral (August 19–20)
- Broghal Yak Festival – Chitral (August 1st Week)
- Jashan-e-Chitral – Chitral (September–October)
- Traditional Games Festival – Peshawar (November)
- Malam Jabba Sun, Snow & Ski Festival – Malam Jabba (December)
- Winter Sports Festival – Koh-e-Sufaid, Parachinar (January 1st Week)
- Khanpur Lake Water Sports & Spring Festival – Khanpur Lake (February)
- Tips for Visiting KP & GB Festivals
- Conclusion & Cultural Significance
- FAQs
1. Introduction to KP & Gilgit-Baltistan Festivals
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) are cultural and adventure hotspots of Pakistan, offering a unique blend of mountainous landscapes, thrilling sports, and centuries-old traditions. Every year, these regions host a series of festivals that showcase their heritage, cuisine, and adventure sports, making them a must-visit for tourists seeking both cultural immersion and adrenaline-filled experiences.
From the snow-covered peaks of Chitral to the lush valleys of Swat, travelers can experience winter sports, polo tournaments, local music, and culinary delights. The festivals in KP & GB are not just celebrations—they are windows into the lives, traditions, and passions of the local people.
Local festival-goers often share insider advice: “Visit the villages early in the morning to witness the true essence of our traditions,” says Rehmat Ali, a Chitrali guide. This guidance ensures tourists can enjoy hidden gems like untouched trails, authentic food stalls, and traditional handicrafts markets, away from the crowds.
These festivals are spread across the year, allowing travelers to experience every season. Winter brings speed skating, ice hockey, and skiing; spring celebrates Kalash festivals and Jashan-e-Nauroz; summer shines with polo tournaments and mountain bike races; and autumn brings marathons and harvest celebrations. Each season reveals a different facet of the region’s cultural and natural beauty, making KP & GB a year-round destination for explorers and culture enthusiasts.
2. Winter Sports Festival – Madaklasht, Chitral (February)
The Madaklasht Winter Sports Festival is a thrilling annual event held in February in the high-altitude Madaklasht Valley. Nestled in Chitral, this festival draws national and international athletes, as well as travelers eager to witness speed skating, ice hockey, and curling against the backdrop of the Hindu Kush mountains.
Highlights & Activities:
- Speed skating: Multiple categories for professionals and amateurs. The icy tracks are maintained by local volunteers using traditional methods.
- Ice hockey tournaments: Teams from across Pakistan compete, drawing large spectator crowds.
- Curling: A newer addition, popular among youth and families.
- Cultural evenings: Bonfires, folk music, and local Chitrali cuisine including trout dishes and apricot desserts.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Early morning sunrise over Madaklasht valley is a photographer’s paradise.
- Locals recommend tasting homemade apricot jam from village stalls near the festival site.
- Walking trails around the valley lead to secluded ice ponds rarely seen by tourists.
- Warm clothing and waterproof boots are essential; local sherpas sometimes offer guided treks to hidden viewpoints.
Travel & Access: Madaklasht is accessible via Chitral town by 4×4 vehicles; expect snow-covered mountain roads. Accommodation options include local guesthouses and homestays, providing a more immersive experience with local families and their traditions.
3. Frontier Food Festival – Peshawar (March–April)
The Frontier Food Festival in Peshawar celebrates the culinary heritage of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This March–April event is perfect for food enthusiasts and cultural explorers, offering a chance to taste authentic Pashtun dishes and regional delicacies.
Highlights & Activities:
- Cooking competitions: Professional chefs and local cooks showcase traditional recipes such as chapli kebabs, lamb karahi, and kabuli pulao.
- Street food stalls: Offering specialties like Peshawari naan, sweet falooda, and dry fruit desserts.
- Live demonstrations: Learn traditional cooking techniques, including tandoor baking and spice mixing.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Visit the lesser-known alleys near the main festival site to find homemade pickles and chutneys.
- Locals advise tasting Peshawari chapli kebabs with green chutney, considered the festival’s signature experience.
- Evening performances include traditional Pashtun dances accompanied by live rabab music.
- Photography tip: Capture the vibrant spice markets and colorful stalls during golden hour for the best cinematic shots.
Travel & Access: Easily accessible via Peshawar city center; public transport is available, and parking is generally provided. Entry is usually free, but workshops and competitions may require registration in advance.
4. Jashan-e-Nauroz – Gilgit-Baltistan/Chitral (March 21–23)
Jashan-e-Nauroz marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring in high-altitude valleys. Celebrated in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, this festival combines cultural rituals, horse racing, folk music, and community gatherings.
Highlights & Activities:
- Horse racing: Traditional mounted games showcasing local equestrian skills.
- Folk music & dances: Local musicians play Rubab and sitar, with dances reflecting the arrival of spring.
- Community feasts: Villagers serve special Nauroz dishes such as herb rice, lamb kebabs, and dried fruit desserts.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Locals suggest exploring hidden valleys around Gilgit for private Nauroz celebrations with lesser-known local customs.
- Early morning hikes to watch the sun rise over the mountains during the festival offer a serene experience away from crowds.
- Try home-prepared apricot juice and local bread made in traditional clay ovens.
- The festival is also a great time to buy handcrafted woolen clothes and traditional jewelry from small village stalls.
Travel & Access: The nearest major cities are Gilgit and Chitral, with road access via scenic mountain routes. Local guides are highly recommended to navigate the less-traveled areas safely.
5. Babusar Cup Polo Tournament & Mountain Bike Race – Babusar Pass (March)
The Babusar Cup Polo Tournament and Mountain Bike Race are among the most adventurous events in Northern Pakistan, set at Babusar Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in the country. This March festival combines traditional sports, extreme biking, and scenic landscapes.
Highlights & Activities:
- Polo tournament: Local and regional teams compete on natural grass fields against the stunning mountain backdrop.
- Mountain bike race: Challenging tracks for amateurs and professionals, winding through rocky passes and alpine meadows.
- Local cultural activities: Traditional music performances, handicrafts stalls, and local cuisine tasting.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Early visitors can trek to nearby alpine lakes for photography and quiet reflection.
- Locals recommend joining the post-match celebrations in nearby villages, which feature storytelling and traditional dances.
- Sample Yak cheese and herbal teas offered by small family-run stalls at the festival.
- Expect cold winds and altitude effects, so warm layered clothing and hydration are crucial.
Travel & Access: Accessible via Chilas or Naran roads, with 4×4 recommended. Accommodation options include camping at the pass or local guesthouses.
6. Swat Paragliding Cup – Swat (March)
The Swat Paragliding Cup is a high-adrenaline festival attracting adventure enthusiasts from across Pakistan. Held in Swat Valley, this event combines thrilling aerial sports with scenic landscapes of mountains and rivers.
Highlights & Activities:
- Paragliding competitions: Novices and experts compete in various categories, including long-distance and precision landing.
- Workshops & training sessions: Local pilots provide training sessions and safety briefings.
- Evening cultural events: Folk music, traditional dances, and local cuisine tents.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- The Kandol Lake viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic shots of paragliders over the valley.
- Locals suggest trying traditional Swati trout kebabs from small riverside vendors.
- Early morning flights are best for photography, with misty river valleys creating magical visuals.
- Travelers can stay in homestays in Mingora for authentic cultural immersion.
Travel & Access: Easily accessible via Swat’s main towns. 4×4 vehicles recommended for hilltop takeoff sites. Entry fees vary for competitors; spectators usually free.
7. KP Cuisine & Culture Festival – D.I. Khan (April)
The KP Cuisine & Culture Festival in Dera Ismail Khan celebrates the culinary and cultural heritage of southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It’s an ideal event for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Highlights & Activities:
- Culinary displays: Traditional dishes including lamb karahi, desi sweets, and herbal teas.
- Cultural performances: Folk dances, poetry recitals, and musical performances.
- Handicrafts market: Artisans showcase pottery, embroidery, and woodwork.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Try the local sweet “Khatai” made from tamarind and jaggery, often unavailable outside villages.
- Locals recommend attending early morning cooking demos for a quieter, more interactive experience.
- Festival evenings often feature storytelling sessions by village elders, sharing centuries-old traditions.
- Photography tip: Capture artisans at work to highlight authentic craftsmanship.
Travel & Access: D.I. Khan city is accessible via highways from Peshawar or Multan. Festival entry is generally free. Local buses and taxis available.
8. Qaqlasht Festival (Jashn-e-Qaqlasht) – Chitral (April 1st Week)
Jashn-e-Qaqlasht is a springtime cultural festival in Chitral, celebrating local heritage, nature, and community spirit. It attracts travelers who want off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Highlights & Activities:
- Music and dances: Traditional Chitrali instruments and group dances.
- Nature walks: Guided treks to hidden valleys and waterfalls nearby.
- Handicrafts and local cuisine: Stalls selling handwoven shawls, apricot jam, and trout delicacies.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Locals suggest exploring lesser-known trails to enjoy private picnics and scenic vistas.
- Early visitors can witness traditional spring rituals performed by elders in the village square.
- Try homemade herbal teas offered by families during treks.
- Photography tip: Capture candid shots of villagers preparing festival dishes.
Travel & Access: Accessible via Chitral town; local guides recommended for trekking. Homestays available for immersive cultural experience.
9. Kalash Spring Festival (Joshi) – Kalash, Chitral (May 14–15)
The Kalash Spring Festival (Joshi) is one of the most iconic cultural events in Pakistan, marking the beginning of spring in the Kalash valleys. It combines rituals, music, dancing, and community feasts.
Highlights & Activities:
- Traditional dances: Men and women perform in traditional attire, often accompanied by drums and flutes.
- Ritual offerings: Villagers offer food and prayers to honor mountain deities and ancestors.
- Cultural tours: Visitors can explore Kalash temples, mountain trails, and local settlements.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Locals recommend participating in village rituals for a deeper cultural experience.
- Taste Kalash corn bread, yak butter tea, and grape juice, all traditional festival delicacies.
- Early mornings offer peaceful hikes to surrounding hills, away from festival crowds.
- The festival is perfect for documentary photography due to colorful costumes and rituals.
Travel & Access: Kalash valleys are accessible via Chitral town by jeep; homestays and village guesthouses provide authentic experiences.
10. Jashn-e-Kurram – Parachinar (May)
Jashn-e-Kurram is a major cultural festival in Parachinar, celebrating heritage, agriculture, and community life. Held in May, it attracts visitors from surrounding regions.
Highlights & Activities:
- Folk dances and music: Traditional Pushtun dances with live Rabab and flute music.
- Agricultural displays: Local farmers showcase crops, livestock, and traditional crafts.
- Competitions: Horse races and local games entertain both visitors and locals.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Locals suggest visiting nearby hills to view the festival from above, capturing panoramic photography.
- Sample local sweet dishes prepared with apricots, walnuts, and honey.
- Engage with elders to learn about traditional Kurram stories and rituals.
- Evenings are ideal for sunset photography with festival lights and mountain backdrop.
Travel & Access: Parachinar is accessible via road from Kohat and Peshawar; local buses and taxis available. Entry is generally free; guided tours recommended for safety and local insight.
11. Gandhara Festival – Peshawar (May)
The Gandhara Festival in Peshawar celebrates the ancient Gandharan civilization, blending art, history, and culture. It is ideal for travelers interested in archaeology, music, and traditional crafts.
Highlights & Activities:
- Historical exhibitions: Displaying Gandharan sculptures, coins, and pottery.
- Cultural performances: Traditional music and dance from KP regions.
- Workshops: Pottery, stone carving, and painting reflecting Gandharan styles.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Visit the lesser-known archaeological sites nearby for quieter, immersive experiences.
- Locals suggest trying traditional Gandharan sweet rice dishes served during festival evenings.
- Evening walks in Peshawar’s old city allow visitors to capture the historical architecture illuminated by festival lights.
- Engage with artisans to learn ancient crafting techniques that are rarely taught outside the festival.
Travel & Access: Accessible from Peshawar city center; public transport available. Entry is generally free; workshops may require prior registration.
12. Swat Marathon – Swat (June)
The Swat Marathon is a unique sporting event set amidst the valleys and rivers of Swat, attracting athletes and adventure runners from across Pakistan.
Highlights & Activities:
- Marathon routes: Scenic trails through forests, riversides, and mountain paths.
- Cultural zones: Music performances, local food stalls, and handicraft exhibitions.
- Youth participation: Special categories for school and college students.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Locals recommend running early morning to experience misty river valleys and forested paths.
- Try the local trout sandwiches available at post-marathon food stalls.
- Participants can explore hidden waterfalls and small lakes along the marathon route.
- Early registration is advised as slots fill quickly for long-distance categories.
Travel & Access: Swat city is the main base; 4×4 vehicles recommended for trail access. Accommodation in Mingora or homestays in surrounding villages offer cultural immersion.
13. Shandur Polo Festival – Shandur (July 5–13)
The Shandur Polo Festival is known as the “Highest Polo Ground in the World”, held on Shandur Pass. This iconic event is a combination of sport, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights & Activities:
- Polo matches: Chitral vs. Gilgit teams compete in traditional polo.
- Cultural shows: Local folk music, dances, and traditional storytelling.
- Camping experience: Visitors can camp near the polo ground and enjoy the mountain sunrise and sunset.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Arrive early in the morning to witness practice matches and interact with local players.
- Sample yak meat dishes and butter tea offered by local villagers.
- Trekking nearby hills offers panoramic views of the polo field and surrounding peaks.
- Evening bonfires allow travelers to network with local guides and learn about Chitrali traditions.
Travel & Access: Accessible from Gilgit or Chitral via jeep; high-altitude gear recommended. Accommodation primarily camping or tents provided by local organizers.
14. Uchal or Ucho (Kalash Festival) – Kalash, Chitral (August 19–20)
Uchal or Ucho is one of the most colorful and spiritual festivals of the Kalash community, held in late August. It celebrates harvest, ancestral spirits, and local traditions.
Highlights & Activities:
- Traditional dances: Men and women in vibrant attire perform ritual dances.
- Offerings and rituals: Villagers offer food to gods and ancestors.
- Community feasts: Shared meals with local dishes like corn bread, yak meat, and herbal teas.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Locals recommend joining a village walk during morning rituals for authentic experiences.
- Taste handmade grape juice and apricot preserves offered by villagers.
- Trekking to nearby hills provides a breathtaking overview of the festival and valley.
- Evenings are perfect for photography, capturing the play of sunlight on colorful costumes and rituals.
Travel & Access: Kalash valleys accessible via Chitral town; local guides recommended for navigation and cultural guidance. Homestays offer immersive experience.
15. Broghal Yak Festival – Chitral (August 1st Week)
The Broghal Yak Festival celebrates mountain livestock culture, especially the yak, vital to high-altitude life in Chitral. This early August festival is a mix of adventure, culture, and rural traditions.
Highlights & Activities:
- Yak races: Local herders compete, showcasing animal skills and agility.
- Cultural performances: Folk music, storytelling, and traditional dances.
- Local markets: Display of woolen clothing, handicrafts, and traditional foods.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Early visitors can witness yak herders preparing animals for competitions, offering unique photography opportunities.
- Sample yak cheese, butter tea, and traditional bread.
- Trekking to surrounding meadows reveals hidden alpine lakes and wildflower fields.
- Locals advise interacting with children to learn about yak herding traditions and stories passed down generations.
Travel & Access: Broghal accessible via Chitral town; 4×4 vehicles recommended. Camping or homestays available for immersive experience.
16. Jashan-e-Chitral – Chitral (September–October)
The Jashan-e-Chitral festival is a spectacular display of Chitrali culture, music, and traditional sports, held as autumn paints the mountains in gold. It celebrates the valley’s harmony, crafts, and royal heritage.
Highlights & Activities:
- Polo matches, tug-of-war, and archery contests that highlight traditional sportsmanship.
- Cultural music nights featuring local instruments like the sitar and chitrali drum.
- Handicraft exhibitions displaying woolen shawls, caps, and embroidery.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Explore Old Chitral Bazaar, where craftsmen carve wooden souvenirs unique to this region.
- Locals recommend trying Goshtaba, a meatball dish served with buttered naan during the festival.
- Visit Chitral Fort in the evening when it’s lit up — a secret spot for photographers.
- Many travelers miss the local storytelling circles where elders narrate tales of ancient kings.
Travel & Access: Chitral city is reachable via Lowari Tunnel; guesthouses and boutique lodges provide comfortable stays during the event.
17. Traditional Games Festival – Peshawar (November)
The Traditional Games Festival in Peshawar revives ancient Pashtun sports that have entertained generations — a living heritage of bravery and camaraderie.
Highlights & Activities:
- Buzkashi demonstrations, archery, stone lifting, and horse racing.
- Folk music nights with Rabab performances and group dances.
- Food street offering Kabuli Pulao, Chapli Kebab, and local sweets like Gulab Jamun.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Arrive early for the Buzkashi warm-up matches, which are more authentic than the main show.
- Visit Qissa Khwani Bazaar to buy handcrafted turbans and traditional daggers.
- Many locals suggest ending the day at Chowk Yadgar, where evening tea and Rabab music blend beautifully.
- Travelers can join in spectator challenges — fun mini games like tug-of-war open to tourists.
Travel & Access: Peshawar city center hosts the festival near Sports Complex; hotels are abundant in the Saddar area.
18. Malam Jabba Sun, Snow & Ski Festival – Malam Jabba (December)
Held in the serene heights of Swat, the Malam Jabba Sun, Snow & Ski Festival transforms the resort into a winter sports paradise. This event celebrates both adventure and culture amid stunning alpine scenery.
Highlights & Activities:
- Skiing, snowboarding, and snow-sculpture competitions.
- Snow paragliding over the Swat valley for experienced flyers.
- Cultural evenings with bonfires, music, and hot traditional food.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Arrive a day early to enjoy early sunrise over snow peaks from the chairlift point.
- Local guides can lead short snow hikes to secret viewpoints unseen by most visitors.
- Try Qahwa with honey and dry fruits served at small roadside cafés.
- Locals recommend carrying micro-spikes for better traction if exploring off-slope areas.
Travel & Access: Reachable via Mingora or Saidu Sharif; roads are well-maintained but 4×4 recommended in heavy snow. Entry tickets often include access to chairlifts and events.
19. Winter Sports Festival – Koh-e-Sufaid, Parachinar (January 1st Week)
Set against snow-covered ridges of Koh-e-Sufaid, this festival showcases speed skating, ice hockey, curling, and local winter traditions. It’s Pakistan’s emerging winter sports destination.
Highlights & Activities:
- Ice hockey tournaments between local and guest teams.
- Speed skating exhibitions featuring youth from Kurram Valley.
- Cultural programs and food stalls offering winter delicacies.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- The early morning skating practice sessions are perfect for photos with soft light on snow.
- Locals advise visiting Tirah Bazaar for traditional wool cloaks and embroidered gloves.
- Try Parachinar-style hot milk tea with saffron — a local winter favorite.
- Visitors should prepare for sub-zero nights and bring high-altitude winter gear.
Travel & Access: Parachinar is accessible by road from Peshawar; limited guesthouses are available. Booking early is recommended.
20. Khanpur Lake Water Sports & Spring Festival – Khanpur Lake (February)
As winter fades, Khanpur Lake bursts into color with its Spring & Water Sports Festival, marking the start of Pakistan’s adventure season.
Highlights & Activities:
- Jet skiing, cliff diving, kayaking, and parasailing.
- Cultural exhibitions and spring flower markets.
- Live music nights with local artists and open-air food courts.
Hidden Gems & Local Tips:
- Early morning boating sessions offer the clearest reflections of surrounding cliffs.
- Locals recommend trying grilled fish at lakeside huts, freshly caught and seasoned with herbs.
- Photographers can explore hidden rock formations on the lake’s west side.
- A small artisan village nearby sells pottery and woven baskets unique to the region.
Travel & Access: Located near Taxila, accessible via Islamabad–Haripur road. Entry tickets available at gate; parking and gear rentals onsite.
Traveler Guide: The Soul of Northern Pakistan
The festivals of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan are far more than mere events — they’re living portraits of Pakistan’s cultural resilience, hospitality, and natural beauty. From the icy peaks of Shandur to the blooming shores of Khanpur, every celebration is an invitation to connect with history, tradition, and community.
These festivals represent unity across valleys, languages, and faiths — a timeless spirit that makes northern Pakistan one of the most authentic travel experiences in Asia.
🧭 Best Time to Visit
| Season | Recommended Festivals | Weather | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Malam Jabba, Koh-e-Sufaid, Khanpur Lake | Cold, snowy | Skiing & snow adventures |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Kalash Joshi, Gandhara, Frontier Food | Mild, floral | Cultural richness |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Shandur, Uchal, Broghal | Cool & scenic | Polo, trekking, high-altitude festivals |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Jashan-e-Chitral, Traditional Games | Crisp, golden | Heritage & sports |
💡 Local Travel Tips
- Book accommodation early, especially for mountain festivals (Shandur, Uchal, Broghal).
- Carry cash, as remote areas have limited ATM access.
- Respect local customs — especially in Kalash and tribal regions.
- Bring warm layers and power banks for high-altitude areas.
- Engage with locals — most will happily guide or invite you for tea!
❓FAQs
Q1: Which is the biggest festival in Gilgit-Baltistan?
A: The Jashan-e-Nauroz and Shandur Polo Festival are among the largest, drawing visitors from across the world.
Q2: Are these festivals family-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Families, students, and even solo travelers are warmly welcomed.
Q3: Can tourists participate in sports events?
A: In some, yes — such as the Swat Marathon, Khanpur Lake sports, and spectator games in Peshawar.
Q4: What is the best photography festival?
A: The Uchal Kalash Festival offers the most colorful visuals, while Malam Jabba provides majestic winter frames.
Q5: Are English-speaking guides available?
A: Yes, especially in Gilgit, Chitral, Swat, and Peshawar. Many locals also speak Urdu and basic English.
Q6: What should I pack for these festivals?
A: Hiking boots, warm clothing, sunscreen, and a good camera — plus curiosity and an open heart!
🏞️ Final Thoughts
From ancient Gandhara to the snow plains of Shandur, every festival in KP and GB is a window into Pakistan’s soul, stories, and smiles. Whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, or spiritual serenity — these highland celebrations promise memories carved in mountain light.
References:
- Explore Hunza Heritage Guide 2026 – Discover timeless valleys, cultural heritage, and hidden gems in Northern Pakistan.
- Best Camping Spots in Northern Pakistan (2026) – Hidden lakes, scenic meadows, and unforgettable trekking experiences.
Sources:
- Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) – Official information on upcoming festivals and tourism in KP & GB.
- Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism Department – Verified schedules, permits, and local cultural updates for northern festivals.
