Six Festivals of Excellence: A Tour through August 2018 in Indonesia
August 2018 was a special month for culture enthusiasts and tourists in Indonesia, as it played host to six major festivals showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of the archipelago nation. In this post, we'll take a tour through each festival, learning about their unique traditions, significance, and what makes them a must-visit.
1. Purnama Asih Festival (July 28 - August 2)
The Purnama Asih Festival is held annually in Blitar, East Java, to honor the local deity, Dewi Asih, and to ask for her blessings of prosperity, health, and happiness. The festival features traditional Javanese arts and culture performances, religious processions, and a grand market selling local delicacies and crafts.
2. Bali Arts Festival (July 31 - August 31)
The Bali Arts Festival is the most famous and longest-running cultural event in Indonesia. Held annually in Denpasar, Bali, it showcases various traditional performing arts such as dance, music, theater, and painting from Bali and neighboring islands. This festival aims to preserve and promote Balinese art and culture.
3. Tana Toraja Funeral Festival (August 1 - August 31)
The Tana Toraja Funeral Festival is a unique event in the highlands of South Sulawesi, where the Torajan people celebrate the death of their loved ones with elaborate funeral rites that can last for days. The festival provides visitors with a glimpse into this fascinating culture's rich traditions and customs.
4. Solo International Jazz Festival (August 11-19)
The Solo International Jazz Festival in Central Java is one of the most significant jazz events in Asia. It brings together world-renowned jazz musicians for a week-long celebration of this beloved genre. The festival includes performances, workshops, and jam sessions, making it an essential destination for jazz enthusiasts.
5. Indonesia On The Move Festival (August 16-20)
The Indonesia On The Move Festival is held in Yogyakarta and showcases various performing arts from all over Indonesia, including dance, music, theater, and puppetry. This annual event aims to promote unity in diversity and preserve the country's rich cultural heritage.
6. Sabang International Kite Festival (August 25-27)
The Sabang International Kite Festival is a colorful celebration held in Sabang, Aceh, where kite enthusiasts from around the world gather to fly their creations. The festival includes kite competitions, cultural performances, and traditional games, making it an enjoyable experience for people of all ages.