Nepali MelaBack to the Streets of KTM
A vibrant cultural district inside the 2026 Live At Present festival — authentic food, a curated marketplace, a startup spotlight and community impact initiatives, all on one day at Haven Farm.
Culture, food, entrepreneurship & community — from KTM to NC
Nepali Mela introduces festival-goers to the culture, food, creativity, and community spirit of Nepal. It is a cultural experience, a small-business marketplace, a startup showcase, and a community impact initiative — all in one. Our goal is to build real connections between emerging Nepali businesses and consumers throughout North Carolina and the United States.
One district. Three experiences.
Taste of KTM
Authentic Nepali food experiences featuring momo, traditional teas, street snacks, and regional specialties — straight from the streets of Kathmandu.
The Bazaar
A curated marketplace of handmade products, crafts, clothing, art, sustainable goods, and cultural merchandise from Nepali makers and small businesses.
Startup Spotlight
A dedicated stage for Nepali-led startups, tech companies, digital platforms, and innovative businesses to connect with consumers, partners, and investors.
A marketplace woven into the festival grounds
Nepali Mela was woven into the Live At Present festival grounds as a vibrant cultural marketplace and gathering space. Guests explored food vendors, retail booths, startups, community organizations and cultural displays throughout the day — all part of the festival experience.
The atmosphere reflects the energy, colors, and community spirit found throughout Kathmandu's streets and marketplaces.
"The aroma of momo, the buzz of bargaining, and the spirit of a bustling bazaar—a slice of Kathmandu in North Carolina."
Giving Back Through Education
Nepali Mela partnered with nonprofit organizations focused on educational opportunities in Nepal. A portion of proceeds generated through Nepali Mela activities supports educational initiatives and community development projects.
Supporting educational opportunities and community development in Nepal.
Women's empowerment and wellbeing initiatives in the community.
Meet the vendors
Food, retail, wellness and community booths joining us at Live At Present 2026.
Questions, answered
Was Nepali Mela a separate event?+
No. Nepali Mela was a cultural district inside the 2026 Live At Present festival — same grounds, same day.
What happened inside the Mela?+
Food vendors, a curated bazaar, a startup spotlight, community organizations and cultural displays, all day long.
Where does the proceeds support go?+
A portion of Nepali Mela proceeds supports nonprofit partners focused on educational opportunities in Nepal.
Will Nepali Mela return?+
We hope so. Join our mailing list on the festival page and you'll hear about future events first.
Thank you for coming to the Mela.
To every vendor, artisan, startup and family who filled the streets of KTM with us — dhanyabad.