In the iconic archipelago of Indonesia, a festival appears for every season and reason under the sun. Whatever time of year you intend to visit, the religious, cultural and international celebrations continue. An island nation of over 17,000 islands brings cultures, legends, religions & indigenous ceremonies from ancient times into modern day. In the festivals of Indonesia spirits are summoned, harvests are celebrated and a Princess reincarnates as a colorful sea worm. The God’s have spoken and the stairway to the Gate of Heaven awaits you in the land of the Island of Gods. Enter into the ethereal festivals of Indonesia.

SPRING FESTIVALS OF INDONESIA

Bali Spirit Festival

As a student of Yoga myself, this is probably one of my favorite festivals in Bali. Every year Yogis from the world over descend on Bali for a 6 day family friendly festival. Bring the children to run free in the daycare kid zone, then join the healers and readers in the healing huts. Get a Thai massage or natural facial. Move through the open air market, taking in the musical performances and purchasing wares from local artisans. Join the many Yogi for sessions and finish with an authentic organic meal from one of the prestigious restaurants in the area who supply the food stalls. Wander the evenings with a musical concert finding your center of peace, health and harmony.

On the Island of Bali

Consult With Your Hotel For Exact Dates, Times & Transportation. Click Here For The link To This Years Festival (2019)

For 6 Days Toward The End Of March

Semana Santa

Every year, for the Holy Week,( the week before Easter ), Pilgrims from Bali, Flores and Java migrate to the city of Larantuka in celebration. The festivities cover religious rituals as well as the history of the Portuguese with their local traditions.

Larantuka City in East Nusa Tenggara Province

Click Here For The Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or call Bureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

At The End Of March (Holy Week) The Week Before Easter

The Legu Gam Festival

A folklore festival of earth and water, representing his majesty’s birthday, the Sultan of Ternat, Mudhafar Sjah. The main attraction in the festival is the colorful Legu Gam Dance. It’s said, this dance was performed for the Sultan after he did 3 things…..Doru Gam, The Sultan’s visit to certain places in the region, Kololi Kie, The Sultan’s circling Mt Gamalama or Ternate Island by sea & lastly Fere Kie, when the Sultan would climb Mount Gamalama. This festival is filled with cultural events and folk markets.

Ternate, North Maluku

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

Every Year In April

Tidori Festival

This folk festival, held every year in April has several reasons for celebration. The first is the celebration of the anniversary of the Tidore Islands. A ritual of the ceremony is 5 residents delivering water taken from the peak of Mount Kie Matabu & uniting it in bamboo. Cultural shows, praying and a sailing pilgrimage take place during the festival, the most historical highlight of the event is the ritual of Lufu Kie, the name of the war fleet that freed Tidore.

North Maluku

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

In April Every Year

Ramadan

The holy month of Ramadan, celebrated by Muslims worldwide, begins with the appearance of the moon at the end of the eighth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is a 30 day period where practicing Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and physical activities during daylight hours. In the evening, when the fast ends, they attend temple, eat small meals & visit with friends and family. This is known as a “month of blessing”, a time of self -sacrifice. charity and devotion to God.

Throughout Indonesia

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

In the 9th Lunar Month of The Muslim Calendar For the Whole Month, May 5-June 4, 2019

Waisak Day (Vasak Day)

The day of flowers, water and fire, a celebration of the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. The festivities begin on the first full moon of he 4th month of the lunar cycle. The devout honor Buddah worldwide on this day with their devotion to the principles of Buddhism: leading a noble life, developing their minds, practicing love and kindness & striving for peace and harmony in humanity.

Throughout the country you will see displays of flowers, a symbol of something so beautiful that will eventually fade away. Holy water is used in different ceremonies symbolizing humility and fire is used to signify the light and enlightenment. Thousands of pilgrims from around the world migrate on Borobudur for the main celebrations. Dating back to the 8th century this is also one off the bucket list from the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Indonesia. Borobudur is the largest Buddhist structure on earth. Join in the celebrations, savor the local cuisine, shop in their markets, give to the less fortunate & experience Nirvana from the masters lessons.

Throughout Indonesia, Largest Celebration On Java at the Borobudur Buddhist stupa and temple complex

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

The 4th Month of The Hindu Calendar Between April and May 2019

International Jazz Festival Festival of Jakarta

Music carries on the balmy pacific breeze as paradise welcomes the most sought after musicians from around the world. Descending on Jakarta every year for three days in the beginning of May, this is the most popular and important Jazz event not only for Indonesia, but the entire Asian continent.

Jakarta

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

In the Beginning of May Every Year for 3 Days

SUMMER FESTIVALS OF INDONESIA

Eid ul-Fitr

The end of Ramadan is celebrated throughout the country’s Muslim community. For three to four days, families feast and join together in prayer and celebration.

Throughout all of Indonesia

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

For 3 or 4 days at the end of Ramadan

Sentani Lake Festival

Experience the exotic culture and tranquil beauty of Papua during this annual festival. A must see since 2007 for tourists all over the world. Treat yourself to the local culture, art and cuisine of Papua. Join in the music and dance and marvel at the traditional ceremonies put on by the local tribes presented on the land and lake

Papua

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

Every year in June

Bali Kite Festival

Soaring above the crowded beaches of Padanggalak, the summer winds of Bali bring the festival of kites. The colorful parade in the sky was started to thank the gods for a bountiful harvest and fertility. Every year, starting in July and carried through October, locals and tourists compete for prizes for the most distinct and creative kites.

Padanggalak

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

Starts In July Every Year but Runs From July Through October

Krakatoa Festivals of Indonesia

Tribal dances, fine art, sports and local cuisine are served up at the largest annual festival in the Lampung province. Celebrations erupt in remembrance of the volcanic catastrophe of Mount Krakatoa. Observe the exotic costumes in the stunning parade of local tribes as they dance in tune to their ancestral music. An event to behold, cherished by tourists worldwide.

Lampung province, south Sumatra

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

Every July for 7 Days

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

Art Jog Festivals of Indonesia

The arts have always been of high importance to the archipelago of Indonesia. The Month long exhibit showcases between May & July every year, since 2008. A new theme is decided on each year. The exhibits throughout the fairs display hundreds of works from local artisans as well as international entries of emerging and established artists , any of which you can take home with you. The event also has a supporting program which includes an open-air cinema.

Cultural Park, Yogyakarta

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

Every Year In July

Sanur Village Festivals of Indonesia

An annual festival that draws tourists to its shores with the festivals message of “The New Spirit of Heritage”. Environmental conservation programs, Yoga, Fashion Shows & Local Cuisine are all prepared by the Balinese experts. Plant exotic corals and endangered plant species. Join in the golf and fishing tournaments. Take a cycling tour, fly kites, bring the kids for fun with the whole family experiencing the heritage of paradise.

Ayu Beach, Sanur – Bali

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

Every Year In August

Independence Day Festivals of Indonesia

On August 17th of every year, the island nation of Indonesia comes alive. Government offices, banks and businesses close early to celebrate their independence. Parades and festivities are held throughout the archipelago recalling the day in 1945 when the country’s first president, General Sukarno, declared a new state for these territories in Southeast Asia.

Throughout All Of Indonesia

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

Every Year On August 17

Baliem Valley Festivals of Indonesia

A tribal war event between the indigenous tribes Dani, Lani & Yali, this festival has been held every year on Papua since 1989. Marvel at their simulations of war & ancestral dance, showing the struggle between the tribes for generations. All while savoring the local cuisine.

Jayawijaya District Area of Walesi, West Papua

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

For 3 Days In August Every Year

Karapan Sapi

In less than 20 seconds, a track running 200 meters long carries a tradition in Madura, people the world over come to see. From August to October every year, tourists descend on Madura to watch the ancient tradition of cow racing. Two cows are yoked together on a wooden harness while the jockey rides in between. The winner receives a prize of 80 million rupiahs. Get lost for the day in the traditional culture of Madura’s most interesting event.

Madura/Pamekasan

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

From August to October Every Year

FALL FESTIVALS OF INDONESIA

Balinale: The Bali International Film Festival

The most discerning audiences from around the world descend on the island of Bali in September, every year, for the much anticipated Bali Film Festival. This festival is favored for several reasons throughout the industry. Most obviously, it allows the archipelago an opportunity to showcase scouting opportunities among the iconic landscapes & indigenous tribal areas. The diversity of the program consists of local Indonesian, international, independent, documentary, fiction, feature & short films. Lastly, workshops and seminars are carried out throughout, with associated events where filmmakers, the world over, can relax informally discussing films and trends in this epic paradise.

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On The Island of Bali,
Lippo Mall Kuta Jl. Kartika Plaza, South Kuta Beach

Click Here For Details Of The Bali International Film Festival

In September Every Year

Lake Toba Festivals of Indonesia

In North Sumatra, the largest lake in all of Asia formed from an ancient volcanic eruption. The Lake Toba festival celebrates the customs and culture of the local indigenous tribe, Batak, who live on the coast. Various activities take place during the festival from art to cultural attractions, sports and local cuisine. Join the celebrations that are held here every year to show gratitude for the existence of Toba Lake and all it brings to it’s local inhabitants.

North Sumatra

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

In September Every Year

Kuta Karnival & The Bali Food Festival

Tourists from around the globe join in this cultural event every year on the tropical beach of Kuta in Bali. Ancestral dances, exquisite local cuisine, parades, kites and epic dance routines flood the area. Immerse yourself in the festivities, see a movie, peruse the market stalls for local art & witness the genius in the sand sculpture competition throughout the celebrations.

On Kuta Beach In Bali

Click Here For The Bali Tourism Board Info On This Festival

In October Every Year

Mawlid an-Nabi

On the 12th day of the third month in the Islamic calendar, is one of the holiest days celebrated throughout Indonesia, for the Muslim community. This festival is in celebration of the birth of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

Throughout All of Indonesia

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

On The 12th Day of The 3rd Month In The Islamic Calendar

WINTER FESTIVALS OF INDONESIA

Trupek Krulut

This isn’t a festival but a way of life in Indonesia. Every 210 days, in Bali, they spend the day doing acts of kindness for people less fortunate. It is a day for friendship & community. Go out of your way to do something for someone else.

On the Island of Bali

Ask at the accommodation your are staying at, if this day is happening during your stay. However, kindness and charity are practices and appreciated every day in this island country.

Every 210 Days on This Island

Asmat Culture Festivals of Indonesia

With this festival, you can check off a visit on your bucket-list for another of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A celebration preserving the cultural heritage of the Asmat tribe of Papua, helps you loose yourself in their history and traditions. Known for their artistic woodcarvings you can participate in the auctions. Marvel at the traditional music and ancestral dance of this spiritually artistic tribe.

Papua

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

In January Every Year

Chinese New Year Celebration

Although celebrated throughout Indonesia, in Singkawang, it seems to be the most festive of all celebrations. The most anticipated ceremony, is Tatung. Lead by a pastor who summons the spirit of a deceased person topossess Tatung. This good spirit is believed to then ward off the evil spirits that want to disturb the harmony of life.

Singkawang, Kalimanatan

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

January 28

Bau Nyale Fishing Festival/ Sasak

Sacrifice for the sake of the greater good is re-enacted every year at this epic legendary festival. Taking place in the 1oth month of the lunar Sasak calendar, is a celebration of a Princess known for her kindness, wisdom & beauty. Legend has it, Princess Mandalika came of age to choose a husband and Princes and suitors from all over the island and rival kingdoms came for her hand. The competition was so fierce, her father, the king of Tonjang Beru in South Lombok, gathered the rivals. He instructed his daughter to choose a husband before sunrise the next morning.

Because she loved her family and the people of her kingdom & feared a war was eminent if she chose the wrong one, she made a very different decision. When a thousand people gathered on Seger Beach to hear her choice, she announced she would instead give herself to everyone & threw herself into the waters, disappearing into the waves. When they went to look for her there were only colored worms. It is believed each year when the worms come back, it is Princess Mandalika coming to bless her people once again . The performances of traditional music and costumes from her time, bring an enchanted tale and when the show is over everyone heads to the water in hopes to collect the Nyale (colored worm fish). The priest is the first to go in & makes a prediction based on the number of worms what the future rice harvest will be. The Nyale are then prepared in banana leaves and served at the feasts.

Lombok, Seger Beach

Click Here For A Link To The Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia For Exact Dates & Times or callBureau of Public Communication of the Ministry of Tourism: +62 21 3838899

In February or March (The 10th Month of The Lunar Cycle)

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Note: This info was accurate when it was published but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates, dates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip