2025 Indonesian National Holidays & Bali Festivals: A Complete Year-Round Guide with Event Dates!

Bali, this picturesque Indonesian island, will dazzle you with its 2025 festivals and celebrations, offering a rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re looking to sidestep certain times or join a Bali event extravaganza, this guide is your go-to resource! Dive into the diverse and vibrant festivities of this unique island.

• Want to avoid Bali’s five peak seasons? Check out: Bali Has Five Peak Seasons! How to Travel Smartly and Avoid Crowds?
• Wondering about Bali’s rainy and dry seasons? See: Best Time to Visit Bali? In-Depth Guide to Dry and Rainy Seasons, Pros & ConsAnalysis

Before diving into the list below, it’s important to note that Indonesian and Balinese festivals often follow the Islamic calendar, Balinese calendar, or Chinese lunar calendar, so their dates shift annually and don’t align with fixed Western dates. That means the same festival may not fall on the same day next year (or any given year)!

(The text below is lengthy—click the ‘Open Table of Contents’ icon for quick navigation)

Click the “Open Table of Contents” button for quick navigation

January

Day 1: New Year’s Day (Indonesian National Holiday)

27th: Siwa Ratri (Balinese Hindu Festival)

27th: Isra and Mi’raj (Prophet Muhammad’s Ascension, Indonesian National Holiday)

29th: Chinese Lunar New Year (Indonesian National Holiday)

• January 1st (New Year’s Day) is a public holiday in almost every country, including Indonesia and Bali, with celebrations peaking on New Year’s Eve (Dec 31). During this period, Indonesians enjoy a spontaneous “Nataru” holiday—see the festival section at the bottom of December for details.
• January 27th marks [Siwa Ratri], a key event in the Balinese calendar emphasizing introspection, meditation, and seeking forgiveness. Rituals include staying awake for 36 hours, fasting for 24 hours, and observing silence for 12 hours. Afterward, purification ceremonies often take place on beaches, along with rituals at major temples across the island.
• January 27th, 2025, also coincides with Indonesia’s national holiday “Isra’ Mi’raj” (the Prophet Muhammad’s Ascension). This important Islamic festival commemorates the Prophet’s journey to heaven, with Muslims gathering in mosques for prayer and worship.
• January 29th is our Chinese New Year! Indonesia has designated the first day of the lunar new year (Jan 29, 2025) as a national holiday. In Taiwan, this means a nine-day break from Jan 25 (Sat) to Feb 2 (Sun). While the 2025 Chinese New Year holiday doesn’t directly align with Bali’s calendar, it’s a peak travel period for tourists from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Plus, since Jan 27 and 29 are Indonesian holidays, and Jan 28 is a flexible day off, many locals enjoy a five-day break. If they take leave on Jan 30 and 31, they can stretch it to nine days, leading many Indonesians to vacation in Bali. So, our Lunar New Year is also a high season for Bali travel! If you’re visiting Bali during this time, check out these tips: Lunar New Year Bali Family Travel Guide: Flights, Visas, Transportation, and Attractions

During the Lunar New Year holiday, adults get a long break, kids have winter vacation, and you can even bring elderly family members to Bali to escape the cold!

February

8th: Hari Saraswati (Balinese Hindu Festival)

26th: Maha Shivaratri (Balinese Hindu Festival)

• The 8th is Hari Saraswati, a festival celebrating the goddess of knowledge. It’s mainly observed by children who pray and offer tributes at their school temples. Balinese also honor the goddess and books by sprinkling holy water. Bali’s most famous Saraswati Water Temple is a five-minute walk from Ubud Palace, also known as the “Ubud Water Palace.” Check out Xiao Jie’s introduction:

• The 26th is the festival of Shiva, one of the three main Hindu gods. This annual Hindu celebration honors Lord Shiva, with devotees gathering at temples for prayer and worship.

March

1st or 2nd: Start of Ramadan

14th: Holi (Balinese Hindu Festival)

26th: Omed-Omedan Kissing Festival (Balinese Event)

28th: Bali Ogoh-Ogoh Parade (Balinese Event)

29th: Bali Nyepi Day & Hindu New Year (Indonesian National Holiday)

• At the start of March, nearly 90% of Indonesia’s Muslim population begins a month-long fast. What is fasting, and why do they do it? For a Q&A on Ramadan, check out Xiao Jie Ma’s explanation: The Origins and Meaning of Ramadan | Ramadan/Eid Q&A
• March 14, 2025, marks Holi, a Hindu festival celebrating spring and love, also known as the Festival of Colors. On this day, people throw colored powder at each other and share food and sweets.

• March 26: The Omed-Omedan Kissing Festival, one of Bali’s most thrilling events. On this day, large crowds of unmarried young people gather for a mass kissing event. Two groups, men and women, stand facing each other, then start hugging and kissing. Onlookers cheer and splash water on them. Foreign tourists are welcome to watch but should avoid participating.

• March 28: Bali’s Ogoh-Ogoh Parade, a truly unique experience! Check out Xiao Jie’s introduction for a chance to experience it firsthand:

• March 29: Bali’s Nyepi Day of Silence / Hindu New Year. This is the most important day of the year in Bali.

• What is Nyepi Day? Is it a good time to visit Bali? What should you be aware of? Where can you watch the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade? Check here.

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April

Day 1: Eid al-Fitr (Indonesian National Holiday)

Day 18: Good Friday (Indonesian National Holiday)

Day 23: Galungan & Kuningan (Balinese Hindu Festival)

• In 2025, Indonesia’s Eid al-Fitr holiday begins on April 1, with a nationwide break of about ten days. Eid is the most important holiday in Indonesia. While it celebrates the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, it’s also a time for Indonesians to spend with family and friends, much like the Chinese Lunar New Year. Expect Bali to start seeing an influx of Indonesian locals from around March 24, with the island packed with domestic tourists for about two weeks. This is the busiest of Bali’s five peak seasons—a holiday you’re advised to avoid visiting Bali!

Scenes from past Eid al-Fitr holidays in Bali

The Eid al-Fitr period is also known as “Lebaran.” For an introduction to Eid al-Fitr, check out Xiao Jie’s video:

• April 18 is a Christian holiday. Under Indonesia’s Pancasila principle of equality among five major religions, this major Christian holiday is also a national holiday in Indonesia.
• Starting April 23, Galungan & Kuningan marks one of Bali’s most important festivals. Galungan on April 23 lasts until Kuningan ten days later, celebrating the creation of the universe and the triumph of good over evil. During this festival, towering penjor decorations bring a vibrant atmosphere to the streets, while abundant offerings, rituals, and celebrations offer a glimpse into the island’s rich culture and spirituality. Families honor their ancestors at home, seeking their blessings, and hold ceremonies at temples to pay respect to the gods. According to the Balinese Pawukon calendar, Galungan is also the day of the universe’s creation. Schools in Bali close for two weeks during this period, highlighting its significance! Be aware that transportation like ferries, private drivers, and taxis will be affected. Many local guides and drivers take a few days off during the main celebrations, so it’s best to book in advance. The day after Galungan (Manis Galungan) is when locals visit relatives or go out together, so you might find the roads especially crowded. Large celebrations can also cause traffic congestion.

May

1: International Labor Day (Indonesian National Holiday)

7th: Bali Spirit Festival

9th–12th: Indonesian Music Expo

12th: Waisak Day (Indonesian National Holiday)

29th: Ascension Day (Indonesian National Holiday)

30th–June 1st: Ubud Food Festival

• May 1: International Labor Day
• The five-day Bali Spirit Festival (May 7–11) is a celebration of music, wellness, and yoga, designed to offer participants a holistic mind-body-spirit experience. Held at The Yoga Barn in Ubud, the event brings together world-class yoga instructors, international musical acts, and health experts. Tickets are now available online for purchase—whether you join for the full event or a single day, you’ll be immersed in this feast for the soul.
• The Indonesian Music Expo (May 9–12) in Bali is a key event showcasing the diversity of Indonesian music. It features live performances, music industry seminars and workshops, instrument displays, and networking opportunities for musicians and industry professionals. The expo aims to promote Indonesian music, foster international collaboration, and encourage cultural exchange.
• May 12 marks Waisak Day, the most significant Buddhist holiday, observed as a national holiday in several Asian countries.
• May 29 is a Christian holiday and a national holiday.
• The Ubud Food Festival (May 30–June 1) takes place in Ubud, Bali. This celebration of Indonesian food and drink features a wide range of activities, including long-table lunches, culinary collaborations among Southeast Asia’s leading chefs, food talks, concerts, and film screenings. If you’d like to attend, you can purchase tickets on the official website.

💰 Want to know more about ticket prices for attractions? Check out the Bali Ticket Price Guide which compiles real-time reference prices for 49 popular spots, along with comparison links to Klook and Trip.com.

Quick Reference:
Ubud Food Festival 2025: A Culinary Heritage Journey in the Heart of Bali

June

1st: Pancasila Day (Indonesian National Holiday)

6–7 Days: Ultra Bali (Bali Event)

7 Days: Eid al-Adha (Indonesian National Holiday)

15 Days–July 13: Bali Arts Festival (Bali Event)

19–20 Days: Jatiluwih Festival (Bali Event)

TBD: Bhineka Pantai Jerman Culture Festival (Bali Event)

• June 1 is Pancasila Day (Indonesian national holiday), similar to Taiwan’s “Constitution Day” concept. Check out Xiao Jie’s introduction:

• June 7 marks Eid al-Adha, the second most important Islamic holiday, which involves the ritual sacrifice of livestock. Behind this seemingly bloody tradition lies a profoundly meaningful story:

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• The “Ultra Bali” event (https://ultrabali.com/) takes place over June 6–7. This is the Bali edition of the Ultra music festival brand, a renowned international electronic music festival series that has hosted events in cities worldwide.
• Every June, Bali hosts the Bali Arts Festival, the largest cultural event on the island, dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and developing Balinese art and culture. The festival typically begins on the second Saturday of June and lasts for a month, having been held since 1979, making it one of Indonesia’s longest-running arts festivals. The Bali Arts Festival features a variety of exhibitions, performances, and art-related activities aimed at showcasing Balinese culture and arts. During the festival, many towns are decorated with traditional bamboo and coconuts to celebrate. Numerous outdoor stages and pavilions are set up across Bali for viewing various talent performances, where you can enjoy dance, puppet, and music shows. The festival usually kicks off with a parade in Denpasar, followed by traditional music, then painting, sculpture, and photography exhibitions open to the public, along with handicraft displays and food stalls offering Balinese cuisine. In 2025, it is scheduled to run from June 15 to July 13. Link to 2023 Bali Arts Festival introduction
• The “Jatiluwih Festival” on the 19th and 20th is a cultural festival held in the Jatiluwih area of Bali. Jatiluwih is renowned for its stunning terraced rice fields, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This festival celebrates and showcases local cultural traditions, agricultural practices, and natural beauty. Activities may include traditional music and dance performances, local food tastings, handicraft displays, and events related to the rice paddies and local farming.
• The Bhineka Pantai Jerman Culture Festival is a cultural event held in Bali, located at Jerman Beach in the Kuta area. The festival aims to celebrate and promote Indonesia’s diverse cultures, especially Bali’s local traditions and arts. It typically features dance performances, traditional music, handicraft displays, food stalls, and more, attracting both locals and tourists. This event not only showcases Indonesia’s cultural diversity but also provides a platform for exchange and learning for the local community and visitors.

July

TBD: Bali Kite Festival (Bali Event)

TBD: Sanur Village Festival (Bali Event)

July 3–5: Penglipuran Village Festival (Bali Event)

TBD: Suara Festival (Bali Event)

• The Bali Kite Festival is a grand celebration of Balinese culture, typically held in July and August each year, with the 2025 dates yet to be announced. During this festival, participants from around the world bring their elaborate and colorful kites to compete on the beaches of Sanur.

The Bali Kite Festival is an internationally renowned kite competition.

• The Sanur Village Festival is an annual event (for more on what to do in Sanur, check out the Sanur Guide Map: 45 Things to Eat, Drink, and Do, Plus SPA and Accommodation Recommendations!). This festival celebrates art, food, culture, fashion, yoga, and the environment. Many large-scale events take place alongside the festival, including tennis, traditional boat races, ocean water sports, surfing competitions, photography contests and exhibitions, kite flying festivals, village cycling tours, markets, coral planting, baby turtle releases, food festivals, music and cultural performances, yoga, an open golf championship, and the Bali International Triathlon, among others.

Sanur Village Festival

• The “Penglipuran Village Festival,” held in July, is an annual cultural event in Bali’s Penglipuran Village. This festival aims to showcase the traditional culture and lifestyle of Penglipuran Village, renowned for its well-preserved traditional architecture and customs. Activities include traditional dance and music performances, handicraft exhibitions, local food stalls, and cultural workshops. Visitors can gain deep insights into the unique culture of Penglipuran Village and experience the daily life of its residents, making it an ideal way to explore Bali’s traditional village culture. (Extended reading: Step Back in Time at Penglipuran Village: Experience Bali’s Ancient Charm)

Penglipuran Village is a wonderful experience

• Also in July, though the date is yet to be confirmed, is the Suara Festival. This is a music and arts-themed festival in Bali, focusing on contemporary music, visual arts, and cultural performances, providing a platform for local and international artists to showcase their creativity. The Suara Festival is typically held at various locations across Bali, attracting a large number of music and art enthusiasts. Activities include live music performances, art installations, workshops, and cultural exchange events. The Suara Festival injects new vitality into Bali’s cultural scene while fostering interaction and integration between local and global art communities.

August

1st: Ubud Village Jazz Festival

17th: Indonesian Independence Day (National Holiday in Indonesia)

22-24: Tanah Lot Arts and Culture Festival (Bali Event)

27th: Ganesh Chaturthi (Bali Hindu Festival)

• August 1–2: Ubud Village Jazz Festival (UVJF) is one of Asia’s most important jazz music events! This festival has become an iconic highlight of Bali’s cultural hub, drawing jazz lovers from around the world each year. The 2025 UVJF will take place on August 1 and 2 at STHALA UBUD in Ubud, offering two unforgettable nights of music. UVJF 2025 has been selected by Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy as one of the top ten national events of the year, showcasing its influence and significance. The festival brings together top jazz musicians from across the globe and receives support from various embassies, making it a key platform for international cultural exchange.

• August 17: Indonesian Independence Day, also the country’s national day, is celebrated every year on August 17. On this day, Indonesians hold various festivities, including fun competitions, parades, concerts, and fireworks displays.

• August 22–24: A three-day annual festival at Tanah Lot Temple in Tabanan Regency. Highlights include: Cultural performances and parades featuring traditional Balinese dance, music performances, and vibrant cultural processions. Activities include Baleganjur parades, coconut leaf weaving parades, and processions with Balinese dance and rindik instruments. There’s a lively local market showcasing handicrafts, along with participation from small and medium enterprises in the Tabanan area to promote local products. Food is also a key part of the festival, where you can sample authentic Tabanan local cuisine.

• On the 27th of this month, Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of the god Ganesha, the deity of prosperity and wisdom, who is highly revered by the people of Bali. This festival usually falls in August or September each year, with the date determined by the Hindu calendar.

September

5th: Maulid Nabi Muhammad (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) (Indonesian National Holiday)

22nd: Navaratri (Balinese Hindu Festival)

26th: Bali Carnival

TBD: Bali Rocking Blues Festival (Bali Event)

• Maulid Nabi Muhammad (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) is an Islamic festival celebrating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It is typically observed on the 12th day of the third month of the Islamic calendar (Rabi’ al-awwal), with the date determined by the lunar Islamic calendar.
• The nine-night Navaratri festival begins on the 22nd (see 10/1)
• From September 26 to October 2, the six-day highlight is the Bali Carnival! This is an annual cultural festival in Bali. Known for blending the vibrant energy of South American carnivals with traditional Balinese dance, music, and art performances, it attracts visitors from around the world. In recent years, more and more international beauties have joined the parade! Check out the official website video.

Bali Carnival

• Book for September: The Bali Rockin Blues Festival is a thrilling music event blending rock and blues. Presented in a mixed “rockin” format, it features performances from multiple artists, showcasing rich musical energy and creativity. Beyond the captivating music, the festival also sets up a food and drink market on the beach, allowing participants to enjoy both great tunes and cuisine in Bali’s stunning seaside setting. This event promises an unforgettable audiovisual feast for rock and blues enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

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October

1st: Dussehra (Balinese Hindu Festival)

7th: Ocean Serenity Day on Nusa Penida / Nusa Lembongan / Nusa Ceningan

20th: Diwali (Balinese Hindu Festival)

29th: Ubud Writer’s and Readers Festival

• 9/22 Navaratri is a Hindu festival celebrating the victory of Goddess Durga. It typically takes place in September or October each year, lasting nine days, during which people engage in fasting, prayer, flower offerings, and dance. The final day of Navaratri (10/1) is Dussehra, celebrating Prince Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana. This is also the story told in Bali’s Kecak fire dance!
• On the 7th, Bali’s three major outlying islands observe “Ocean Peace Day.” Travelers heading to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan should take note: all ferry services to and from these islands are suspended for the day. Be sure to plan accordingly! What is “Ocean Peace Day” and what should you watch out for? Check out our explanation here.
• Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a Hindu celebration marking the triumph of light over darkness. This festival typically falls in October or November each year, with dates determined by the Hindu lunar calendar. In 2025, Diwali will be celebrated on October 20.
• From October 29 to November 2: The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival will take place in Ubud. It’s one of Indonesia’s largest international cultural events, bringing together top talents in literature, art, and culture.

November

19th: Galungan & Kuningan

Starting on the 19th, Galungan & Kuningan marks the second occurrence of these festivals in 2025 and is one of Bali’s most important celebrations. Galungan begins on November 19 and continues until Kuningan 10 days later, commemorating the creation of the universe and the victory of good over evil.

Many local guides and drivers take a few days off during the main festivities, so it’s best to book ahead. The day after Galungan (Manis Galungan) is when locals visit relatives or head out together, so you might find the roads especially crowded. Large celebrations can also cause traffic congestion.

December

24th: Indonesian Christmas Flexible Holiday

25th: Christmas Day (Indonesian National Holiday)

• December 25th is Christmas Day and also a national holiday in Indonesia. For Christians, Christmas is an important holiday, and nearly 10% of Indonesia’s population is Christian. Since Christmas and New Year’s are close together, many Indonesians go to great lengths to take leave and connect the two holidays into an extended break. This gives them a chance to spend a longer vacation with family and friends, traveling to other cities or countries. Indonesians have even coined the term “Nataru,” meaning “Christmas-New Year holiday,” combining “Natal” (Christmas) and “tahun baru” (New Year) to represent this festive period.

Many people from other parts of Indonesia take advantage of the Christmas holiday to visit Bali.

Welcome to the Southern Hemisphere for New Year’s! But be prepared for big crowds!

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That wraps up the most complete list of Indonesia/Bali festivals for 2025. Bali is a popular tourist destination, and it gets very crowded during peak seasons. If you don’t like the crowds, you can avoid the “Five Major Peak Seasons in Bali” we’ve covered, and combine that with some of the unique Balinese festivals mentioned above. “Plan your Bali trip around the right dates” to make your vacation more diverse and exciting!

*The above dates are subject to the final government announcement.

*The Indonesian government has not yet announced how the long weekends will be arranged, so stay tuned for our updates!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Does Nyepi Day in Bali affect tourism?

Yes, on Nyepi Day, all commercial activities and transportation come to a halt, and even the airport is closed. Travelers must stay inside their hotels, but it’s a unique opportunity to experience Balinese culture.

2. Do I need to buy tickets for Bali’s festivals?

Most festival events are open to the public and free of charge, especially ceremonies held within temples. However, participants are required to dress appropriately and observe proper etiquette.

3. When is the best time to attend cultural festivals in Bali?

The period from March to May and November to December each year is ideal for experiencing several major festivals, including Nyepi Day of Silence, Galungan, and Kuningan.

4. How can I respectfully participate in Bali’s festivals?

It is recommended to wear a traditional sarong and sash, and to follow local customs and taboos, avoiding any inappropriate behavior.

5. Are Bali’s festivals suitable for families?

Yes! Many festivals not only allow children to experience a different cultural atmosphere but also strengthen family bonds through participation. However, some ceremonies may last for extended periods, so families are advised to plan their schedules carefully to prevent children from getting too tired.

6. Do Bali’s festivals affect traffic?

Indeed they do, especially during major festivals like Galungan or Kuningan, where some streets are temporarily closed for parades or activities. It’s advisable to plan your itinerary early or opt for walking, which also allows you to enjoy the festivities up close.

7. Is it allowed to photograph local festival ceremonies?

Photography is generally allowed, but it’s best to ask locals or your guide first as a sign of respect, especially in temples or during traditional ceremonies. Some ritual events may have restrictions, so staying respectful and cautious with your camera is a polite gesture.

8. What special festival foods can you try in Bali?

During festivals, travelers can enjoy many local traditional dishes, such as Babi Guling (suckling pig) and Lawar (a mix of vegetables and meat). These foods often carry deep cultural and ritual significance, making them well worth trying.

9. How can you avoid cultural conflicts during festivals?

Respecting local culture is crucial. It’s recommended that travelers learn about festival-related taboos in advance—such as staying quiet on Nyepi Day or avoiding taking photos of forbidden scenes—and always observe local behavior to adapt accordingly.

10. How do Balinese festivals strengthen community bonds?

Festival events are often grand occasions for villages or communities, where residents prepare and participate together, deepening their emotional connections and fostering a stronger sense of unity. Joining these activities is not only a cultural experience but also a chance to feel the warmth and friendliness of the locals.

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