Winter Tales is the only festival in Meghalaya that focuses entirely on sourcing everything locally. It provides local entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase their talents in music, food, arts and crafts, hand-woven clothes, and more. Winter Tales firmly supports indigenous folk by presenting, displaying, and advocating for local talent.

Winter Tales takes pride in being a ‘green festival’ that actively reduces non-recyclable waste and uses organic materials like bamboo and jute for stall construction. All previous editions of the festival have strictly followed this commitment. Festivalgoers are encouraged to go plastic-free throughout the event, and we have designated areas for waste collection, where we recycle or upcycle the materials.

Winter Tales takes the opportunity to showcase the talent of its artisans through workshops and demonstrations, which have proven to be a hit in previous editions. Throughout the venue, artisans busily work on their woodwork and paintings while visitors stop by to chat and observe. This lively atmosphere creates an intimate feel for the event, encouraging guests to do more than just buy products; they also learn about the history behind them.

Festival participants and attendees segregate waste at the source. Volunteers collect specific types of non-recyclable waste that can be upcycled. We place waste bins at multiple locations throughout the venue, and volunteers regularly gather waste. We strive to minimize litter and the use of non-recyclables. However, when avoiding them is unavoidable, we plan for proper disposal or repurposing of the waste.

Meghalaya boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, attracting tourists eager to experience life in the hills. Winter Tales aims to offer this experience through eco-tourism, which unites conservation, communities, and sustainable travel—values we hold in high regard. We strive to encourage conscious travel and share insights on sustainability, as well as the indigenous way of life and art.

Zero waste focuses on preventing waste. Winter Tales aims to become a completely zero-waste festival and is actively taking steps to achieve this goal. The festival minimizes waste production and finds ways to reuse any waste that is generated.

At the venue, entrepreneurs and locals create everything, from the stalls to the stage, using organic materials like bamboo, jute, cane, wood, straw, and clay. They bring the space to life, ensuring that even the cutlery at the food stalls is biodegradable. Winter Tales sets a strong example, encouraging festival-goers to adopt this organic building approach.