Balinese People Celebrate Independence Day

Celebrate Independence Day in Bali

Every year on August 17th, Indonesians across the country celebrate Independence Day with a series of fun, festive, and often quirky competitions — and Bali is no exception. Here, the spirit of patriotism is beautifully blended with cultural pride and community togetherness, making it more than just a commemoration of history — it becomes a living celebration of identity.

Traditional Games

In many neighbourhoods across Bali, people gather with their neighbours to hold friendly competitions filled with laughter and nostalgia. One popular game is the egrang race, where participants walk on tall bamboo stilts — challenging, fun, and a great test of balance.

Children often join the sack race, hopping their way toward the finish line inside large sacks, causing roars of laughter from the crowd. Another favorite is tug-of-war, where two teams pull with all their strength to bring a thick rope past a marked line. These games reflect the spirit of unity, joy, and the simplicity of traditional village life.

Image Source: postbali.net

Comedy Parade: The “Gerak Jalan Kocak” of Buleleng

In Buleleng Regency, the local government organizes marching competitions from August 4th to 10th, 2025. Schools from all levels — elementary to high school — participate, parading through the streets of Singaraja.

But the real crowd favorite is the "Gerak Jalan Kocak", a hilarious and highly creative marching parade for adults. Participants wear outrageous, funny, and imaginative costumes, ranging from traditional Balinese attire to wild, out-of-this-world outfits. The goal? To entertain and impress! The most creative group, as chosen by the judges, takes home the prize.. It's a guaranteed laugh and a true showcase of Balinese humor and creativity.

Image Source: detik.com

Buleleng Festival: A Cultural Showcase

From August 18th to 23rd, 2025, the Buleleng Regency Government will host the Buleleng Festival, a celebration of local arts and culture. Expect to see vibrant traditional performances, local dance, and music — all showcasing the rich heritage of Buleleng. There will also be a variety of culinary booths, featuring traditional Balinese dishes alongside modern food options. The festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience the heart of Buleleng, its people, and its cultural legacy up close.

Image Source: tatkala.co

Community Spirit Through "Ngayah"

Another beautiful aspect of Independence Day in Bali is the tradition of Ngayah — voluntary communal service. Before and during the celebrations, community members work together to clean their neighborhoods and decorate the streets with red-and-white themes, the colors of the national flag. It’s more than just preparation — it’s a symbol of togetherness, cooperation, and the strong sense of family that defines Balinese life.

Image Source: umeanyar-buleleng.desa.id

In Bali, Independence Day is not only a tribute to the nation’s past, but also a joyful reflection of the island’s living culture — full of unity, laughter, art, and heart.