Things to do in Java, Indonesia: The Best Events

A spectacular street festival showcasing extravagant costumes combining new fashion and the old of traditional batik. Introduced in 2008, the carnival is now a yearly event in Solo City (Surakarta City), Central Java. Taking place on the main street in the city, this colourful carnival hosts more than 200 models and dancers wearing spectacular costumes and clad in beautifully designed masks. Offering fun and flambuoyant, if you´re into fashion this celebration of the old and new Indonesian fashion world is not to be missed.

A uniquely Buddhist festival celebrating the birth, death and enlightenment of Buddha, this is a truly spiritual and wonderfully calm experience. Taking place at Borobudur Temple on the full moon day in the moon of May, the temple becomes awash with saffron haze of monks carrying orange flowers and candles. The procession starts in the evening where you can hear the peaceful hum of chanting and pray, and be engulfed in candle light. When the ceremonial rituals are complete thousands of Puja Lanterns are released into the sky, signifying enlightenment for the whole universe. While it´s a rather busy event, I challenge anyone not to be deeply touched by this very special experience.

One of the biggest cultural events of the year in Yogyakarta. Grebeg Maulud celebrates the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed and is a parade of pomp and grandeur. Leaving from the Keraton (Palace), the parade features elaborate floats, Indonesian costume, traditional gamelan music and the unusual practice of fruit and vegetables being shared (read thrown) into the crowds. An offering the people believe brings good luck, hence the enthusiasm! Although often a little busy, it´s a great way to experience Indonesian tradition and maybe get a free lunch.