The Independence Day long weekend has arrived in Pondicherry bringing with it back-to-back holidays, troves of tourists, plenty of free cultural events and lots of buzz !
Whether you plan to show your patriotic fervour this 75th Independence Day or join in some of the events that are part of Sri Aurobindo’s 150th birthday celebrations (Sri Aurobindo’s room open for Darshan at Ashram on August 15, dawnfire meditation in Auroville at 4.45 a.m. ) or just plan to simply unwind, check out our line-up !
Featured Event : Azadi Flea Market
Azadi flea market organised by PTDC has transformed the Crafts Bazaar (near Le Cafe ) into a colourful spot with lanterns, sizzling food stalls and live music. The flavours are local – be it the food, stalls or music (covers of hits rendered by Pondy band PY01). From beauty products, nail art, Pondy souvenirs and local decor to indoor plants, jewellery and toys, there’s a lot to enjoy at the market. Look up at the lanterns and stop to take a selfie at the photo corners !
When: Aug 12- 16 ; 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Finding restaurants crowded this weekend or don’t feel like stepping out ? Order from home through Pondy-based Hopsticks Food delivery service. There are 220+ restaurants delivering through Hopsticks including 35 exclusively on the app ! Get the app here
75 years of Independence events
- Freedom Ride : Register for the bicycle ride and pedal through various quarters of Pondicherry taking the tricolour to a dozen local landmarks on August 14.
- Fete de Puducherry: 3 day Cultural extravaganza featuring folk artistes from various states. Event is free and an opportunity to watch traditional dances and art forms from across India. August 14, 15 & 16.
- 75 artistes sing Vande Mataram : Two-hour music and dance show culminating with 75 artistes performing Vande Mataram. August 15 @ Arts and Crafts Village, Murungapakkam
- Daily film and documentary screenings on lives of freedom fighters at Aura, Beach Road @ 5.30 p.m
- Cultural programmes on Beach Road and Pondy Marina: music, dance, theatre, performed by children and various troupes . Entry Free
Where to go for live music
There are more than a dozen DJ parties in restaurant rooftop and pubs in Pondicherry.
But if you prefer to jive to live music instead, choose from venues like Greasy Tin, Veryy Pondy, The Storytellers Bar, Mel Whisks , The Bike & Barrel at The Residency and the one day music festival 13DB Freedom Festival which has a solid line-up . If you’re a serious music lover, make sure you register for an exclusive experience : vinyl listening sessions with dinner and drinks at Molasses Farm
There are also art workshops, kids activities, a pizza pop-up , theatre and so much more this Independence Day long weekend. Simply scroll down !
SAVE THE DATE: COMING UP NEXT WEEK
Pondy Food Fete : Pondy Food & Wine Festival 2022
Full list of events for Independence Day long weekend in Pondicherry
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