Cox’s Bazar to host three-month tourism carnival starting November

Dhaka: Cox’s Bazar will host a three-month tourism carnival from November 1 through January 31, 2027, as authorities seek to add more entertainment and activities for visitors beyond its beach.

The Cox’s Bazar Tourism Carnival 2026 will be organized by Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) at Hotel Shaibal’s beachfront and adjacent forest area. Spellbound Communications Ltd. will manage the event.

BPC Chairman Md. Shamimuzzaman announced the program at a media briefing October 7 at Parjatan Bhaban in Agargaon, Dhaka.

He said Cox’s Bazar has seen growing domestic visitor numbers in recent years, but international tourist arrivals have remained limited. Visitors have also frequently raised concerns about the lack of entertainment options after spending time at the beach, particularly during the evening.

The carnival will introduce a range of day and night activities, including food and craft markets, wellness sessions, children’s entertainment and camping facilities.

Visitors will also have access to an open-air library, campfires, stargazing, kayaking, go-karting, beach football, volleyball, handball, kabaddi and badminton. Other attractions will include live art, photography exhibitions, an open-air cinema, virtual reality activities, a circus tent and sand sculpture.

Special programs are planned for Victory Day, Christmas and New Year, while a beachfront open-air theater will host live music performances.

BPC Director Md. Gani-ul Azam chaired the briefing.