August is always a festive month in Indonesia as people all over the country eagerly prepare for the anniversary of Indonesia's independence. Besides decorating homes and neighborhoods with various ornaments and attributes, many regions also hold unique traditions that add to the celebratory atmosphere. Let's learn about some of the unique ways people across Indonesia celebrate Independence Day!

1. Peresean, Lombok

Image Souce: indonesiakaya

In Lombok, the Peresean tradition brings together Sasak warriors to compete in a rattan-stick duel, shielded by cow or buffalo hide. This traditional art, popular among locals and tourists alike, emphasizes brotherhood and the valor of the fighters.

From Lombok International Airport, travelers can conveniently explore the island with WAHDAH. Whether opting for compact cars like the Brio, or spacious minivans such as the Raize and Hiace, visitors have the flexibility to discover local gems like the Peresean tradition. 
 

2. The Gebogan, Bali

Image Source: kaskus

Bali is known for its rich traditions and culture. In Tabanan, these customs are celebrated on Indonesia's Independence Day, August 17th, with traditional competitions. One standout event is the Gebogan-making contest, where participants create vertical arrangements of fruits, snacks, and flowers on a tray called a dulang, often used as a religious offering. Young women from village youth groups compete to craft the most beautiful Gebogan, showcasing their creativity and connecting with tradition. Competitions for older women also allow them to display their skills in making and decorating Gebogan.

From I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, visitors to Bali can easily delve into the island's cultural traditions using WAHDAH. Whether selecting compact cars like the Brio or spacious minivans such as the Raize and Hiace, travelers have the means to explore local customs, such as the annual Gebogan-making contests in Tabanan. 

 3. Sailboat Race, Batam

Image Source: travelkompas

Batam hosts an annual sailboat race that has been part of Independence Day celebrations since 1965. Held after the official ceremony, the race features colorful wooden boats and attracts participants and spectators from across the country and abroad.

At Hang Nadim International Airport, travelers can conveniently explore Batam with WAHDAH, offering a variety of vehicles including MPVs and SUVs like the Avanza and Pajero. 

 4. Betawi Cultural Parade, Jakarta

Image Source: tribunnews

The Betawi Cultural Parade in Jakarta is a vibrant celebration featuring various traditional arts competitions. These include sahibul hikayat (storytelling), Betawi dance, lenong (traditional theater), and palang pintu (a welcoming ceremony). Held in August, the event aims to celebrate Indonesia's Independence Day by showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Betawi people, adding to the festive spirit of the occasion with colorful performances and lively community participation.

From Soekarno–Hatta International Airport, visitors can easily explore Jakarta with WAHDAH offering compact options like the Brio, Agya, and Raize.

5. Pawai Jampana, Bandung

Image Source: Fimela 

In Bandung, West Java, the people celebrate Indonesia's Independence Day with a vibrant parade called Pawai Jampana. This parade features large platforms filled with various local produce, handmade crafts, and a wide assortment of foods. There are dozens of these platforms in the parade.

Each platform is typically carried by four people. The produce on these platforms is then eagerly grabbed by both parade participants and spectators. The food on the platforms is shared and enjoyed together by the community.

From Husein Sastranegara Airport, travelers can delve into Bandung's cultural celebrations with WAHDAH car rental services, offering compact and minivan options like the Brio, Raize, and Hiace. 
 

Wrap Up

Explore these unique traditions celebrated in Indonesia during Independence Day! Make your experience truly convenient and reliable with WAHDAH's diverse range of vehicles:

• Jakarta: Compact options like Brio, Agya, and Raize
• Bali, Lombok, and Bandung: Compact and Minivans including Brio, Raize, and Hiace
• Batam: MPVs and SUVs such as Avanza and Pajero

Rent a car with WAHDAH for a comfortable journey, allowing you to experience vibrant cultures and festivities firsthand!