Local Sustainability Fest in Kochi to unite creators, artists, and eco-entrepreneurs

Discover local brands, artisans, farmers, and creators at the Local Sustainable Fest, opening on December 6. This two-day celebration of sustainable living, now in its second year, invites everyone to slow down, appreciate life’s simple rhythms, reconnect with their roots, and share a sense of community, say the organisers.

In addition to providing a platform for small businesses, artisans, and independent makers to present their products and talents, the event empowers visitors to make thoughtful, eco-conscious purchases.

Hosted by Local Sustainable Living—a social enterprise promoting sustainability and supporting local entrepreneurship—the first edition was a major success, featuring 25 stalls from across Kerala. “This year, the event has grown significantly; we’ll feature over 50 curated stalls from different parts of India,” says Noufal Mahboob, co-founder of Local Sustainable Living.

Local sustainable labels such as Thachani Clothing, Kalpaka Lifestyle Store, Mochaflora, and Hempboss debuted at the inaugural event and will return this year with new collections.

Founded two years ago in a 200-year-old തറവാട് (mansion) by Noufal and his cousin Mujeeb Latheef, both advertising professionals, Local Sustainable Living has nurtured a growing community of people committed to giving back to the planet. 

“Our first goal was to create a space where people could simply slow down. This old തറവാട് includes a pond and a sacred grove—features that are fast disappearing from modern life. Here, guests can reconnect with traditional ways of living, when patience and sustainability were a natural part of daily life,” explains Noufal. 

The site features a performance area where anyone can host workshops or gigs without worrying about ticket revenue. “We don’t charge for the space, though contributions are appreciated,” Noufal adds. There’s also an on-site store offering sustainable products. 

The fest is one of several initiatives by Local Sustainable Living. With its low-waste, eco-friendly setup—built from mindful materials and planet-conscious design—the event aims to spark inspiration for more responsible living. From tickets to art installations, everything is either recycled or reusable. Each participant receives a cloth bag to reduce single-use waste, says Noufal.

Activities will include art and craft workshops, upcycling sessions, and mindfulness experiences. Music and dance performances will also light up the evenings—Kerala’s folk fusion indie group Oorali performs on December 6 at 7:30 p.m., followed by Jawari, a London-based collective blending Hindustani and contemporary sounds, on December 7 at 6 p.m., and Poothapattu, a traditional art form from North Malabar presented by dancer Sujina Sreedharan and ensemble, at 8 p.m.

Entry costs ₹199, with ₹170 redeemable at any stall. More than five food stalls will serve local delicacies. Upcycling workshops and ecological documentary screenings are also part of the schedule. Children under 10 enter for free and can enjoy craft corners, nature walks, and cultural activities.