Brad Stark
Bali Festivals showcase the diverse culture and rich traditions that are part of the islander's lives. Many of these are set according to the calendar while others are part of traditional ceremonies.
This is an annual festival that takes place from the second Saturday of June through to the second Saturday of July. This is a grand festival where the Denpasar Arts Centre comes alive with traditional and modern dance performances, competitions, shadow puppet shows, musical fiestas and much more. Artists from across the region and neighbouring islands take part in this huge festival to celebrate the arts; it is a marvellous treat to tourists touring the island during the months of June and July.
An iconic and much looked forward to festival in Bali the annual kite festival takes place around June and August which is the start of the windy season. The Bali Kite Festival is an effort to preserve the art form and encourage innovation and creativity in this ancient tradition. Final dates for the festival are confirmed only once weather patterns are noted. Hundreds of competitors gather to take part in the competition and show off their beautiful kites. The eastern coast of the island is usually favoured for competitions which can go into various stages; the finals of course are determined on favourable weather conditions. Apart for the general kite flying competition there is the 'most innovative kite' choosing competition drawing many participants from youth clubs eager to collect the prize money. A marvellous cultural phenomenon to witness while on holiday; the Bali Kite Festival promises to be a colourful and fun affair.
The Galungan is considered the most important festival in Bali as it is thought that during this time all Balinese Gods descend to earth to celebrate the festival. During the ten day period that marks the festival and coinciding with the wuku year, traditional Barongs will dance from village to village visiting every temple in an attempt to celebrate the festival with the Gods. Galungan put simply is a celebration of good over evil and a special amulet or penjor is affixed to the right side of every house entrance, during this time. A penjor is a bamboo pole very well inlaid with coconut leaves, cakes, fruits and flowers. During this festival locals will dress up in their finest and decorate themselves with sparkling jewels.
The last day of the 10 day Galungan festivities is called Kuningan; it is a day spent is prayer and special ceremonies for long departed ancestors. If you want to get into the spirit of these vibrant Balinese festivities choose the best beach resort Bali has to offer and you won't be disappointed. Nusa Dua is a well-known tourist resort offering excellent beach hotels; it is home to The Laguna Resort & Spa Bali.
This is a unique and rather quirky festival that many holidaymakers to the island find fascinating. The bull races take place in the village of Jembrana in West Bali. They are held in the harvested paddy fields and start around July with the finales being scheduled for November.
This is a celebration of art and culture by the Sanur beach community. The weeklong celebration consists of food, water sports and of course environmental awareness; which many tourists love joining. Over time the festival has incorporated other events such as yoga and fashion to the festivities.
