Bali Festivals Calendar by Month – Dates, Meanings & Travel Tips

Bali celebrates life every day, but its festival calendar offers some of the most spectacular, culturally rich experiences you can have on the island. This guide takes you through Bali's major festivals month-by-month, with verified 2026 dates, meanings, activities, and practical tips so you can plan your trip to match the events that inspire you most.

Introduction to Bali’s Festivals

This 2026 guide provides verified, up-to-date festival dates and practical information to help you plan your cultural journey through Bali. Whether you're seeking spiritual experiences like Nyepi's island-wide silence, artistic immersion at the month-long Bali Arts Festival, or joyful celebrations during Galungan when the entire island decorates with bamboo penjor poles—this comprehensive calendar ensures you don't miss Bali's most meaningful moments.

Important: Balinese festivals follow traditional calendars (Pawukon and Saka systems), so dates change annually. All dates listed here are accurate for 2026 and verified from official sources as of January 2026. We recommend confirming exact times and locations with local sources 2-3 weeks before your visit.

Balinese festivals are vibrant combinations of religious devotion, artistic performance, and communal joy. Many are rooted in Hindu traditions from the island's unique interpretation of faith, blended with influences from Buddhism and local folklore. Ceremonies often take place in temples and villages but spill into streets, beaches, and public squares, turning them into living stages. For locals, festivals mark spiritual milestones and community unity; for visitors, they're an open invitation to witness Bali's cultural heartbeat.

How to Use This Guide

This guide is organized by month so you can match your travel dates to events. Each festival entry includes:

• Date & Type: When it happens and festival category (Religious, Cultural, Modern, Nature)
• Cultural Significance: What it means to the Balinese people
• Main Activities: What you'll see and experience
• Practical Tips: How to attend respectfully

Important Notes for 2026:

Festival Date Changes: Many Balinese festivals follow the 210-day Pawukon calendar or lunar Saka calendar, so dates change annually. The dates listed here are accurate for 2025 but always confirm with local sources 2-3 weeks before your trip.

Official Public Holidays: Galungan, Kuningan, and Nyepi are official Bali holidays when many local businesses, shops, and offices close. Plan accordingly for supplies and services.

Verification: Always check with your hotel, local tourism boards, or official websites closer to your travel date for final confirmation of festival times and locations.

Ticket Information: Most traditional/religious festivals are FREE. Modern festivals (music, food) may require tickets or have VIP options.

Bali Festivals Month-by-Month

January

Suwat Water Festival (Siat Yeh)  – River water cleansing ritual turned joyful water fight in Gianyar. Held near the Sungai Petanu river, this ceremony involves villagers blessing sacred water, then engaging in a spirited celebration where participants throw water at each other to drive away negative energy.

What to know: Wear quick-dry clothes and protect electronics with waterproof bags. The festival is playful but rooted in Hindu purification rituals—respect the sacred aspect before the water fun begins.

Mekotek  – Munggu village ceremony with bamboo pole parades and human ladders symbolizing unity. Men create pyramids while clashing long bamboo poles together, creating thunderous sounds to ward off evil spirits. Young men climb atop poles in daring displays.

What to know: Very loud! Arrive early for good viewing spots. The ceremony typically lasts 3-4 hours. Entry by donation (20,000-50,000 IDR).

February

Chinese New Year (February 10, 2026)  – Lion dances, colorful lanterns, and temple ceremonies celebrating the Chinese New Year. Bali's Chinese-Indonesian community hosts vibrant celebrations.

Best spots:

• Ling Gwan Kiong Temple (Singaraja, North Bali)
• Pura Aditya Jaya (Ramayana, Kuta)
• Chinese temples in Denpasar

What to see: Lion and dragon dances, traditional offerings, festive street decorations, evening lantern displays. Many Chinese-owned businesses close for 2-3 days. Visitors are welcome at public celebrations showcasing Bali's cultural fusion.

Balingkang Festival  – Fusion of Chinese-Balinese traditions in Kintamani with decorated streets and cultural performances.

Berawa Beach Festival  – Beach stage for music, art displays, and food bazaars at Berawa Beach, Canggu. Popular with international travelers.

March 2026 (NYEPI SEASON - PLAN CAREFULLY)

Nyepi Day (March 19, 2026 - THURSDAY)  – Bali's Day of Silence. The entire island shuts down for 24 hours from 6 AM March 19 to 6 AM March 20, 2026. Airport closed, no traffic, lights must be kept off. All visitors must stay indoors and observe silence. This is the Balinese New Year and a unique cultural experience.

What happens during Nyepi:

•  Ngurah Rai International Airport completely CLOSED (no flights in or out)
•  All roads closed - no traffic, no taxis, no transport
•  Lights off - minimal lighting enforced
•  No entertainment - quiet activities only, WiFi may be restricted
•  Stay indoors - all visitors must remain at accommodation

Why Nyepi exists: This marks the Balinese Saka New Year (year 1948). It's a day of self-reflection, meditation, and giving the Earth complete rest. Balinese Hindus observe Catur Brata Penyepian (Four Rules): no fire/light, no work, no travel, no entertainment.

For travelers:

• Book "Nyepi packages" (2-night minimum with all meals included)
• Arrive by March 18
• Stock up on snacks, drinks, medications on March 17-18
• Download entertainment beforehand (books, movies, games)
• Embrace the unique experience - you'll be indoors 24 hours

Critical: Don't book flights departing March 19. Accommodation rates 20-40% higher. Book 3+ months in advance.

Melasti Ceremonies (March 17-18, 2026)  – Pre-Nyepi purification rituals at beaches and water sources across Bali. Processions of devotees in white carrying temple heirlooms for cleansing.

Best spots: Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, Sanur Beach, Tanah Lot, Uluwatu

What to see: Thousands of white-clad devotees walking in procession, carrying elaborate offerings, accompanied by gamelan music. Sacred objects are placed in ocean waves for purification. Photography allowed from respectful distance.

Ogoh-Ogoh Parade (March 18, 2026 - EVENING) – Giant demon effigies paraded through streets on Nyepi Eve. Spectacular displays with music and fire before statues are burned to drive away evil spirits.

What happens:

• 5:00 PM: Villages display their ogoh-ogoh creations
• 6:00-9:00 PM: Street parades with gamelan music
• Peak: Men spin and shake ogoh-ogoh wildly
• Finale: Many effigies burned in cemeteries

Best spots: Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, Sanur central areas

What to know:

• Streets closed to traffic 5-11 PM
• Massive crowds - arrive 4 PM for good spots
• Very loud (drums, chants, firecrackers)
• Protect cameras from jostling
• Best photo opportunity of the year!

Omed-Omedan (March 20, 2026)  – Post-Nyepi "kissing festival" with water-throwing in Sesetan village. Young people participate in this unique tradition marking return to normal life after Nyepi's silence.

Bali Spirit Festival (March 15-19, 2026)  – Five-day yoga, dance, meditation, and wellness festival in Ubud. International teachers and performers.

Location: The Yoga Barn and Puri Padi Hotel, Ubud

Highlights:

• 100+ yoga and meditation workshops
• World music concerts
• Ecstatic dance sessions
• Healing arts marketplace
• Cultural ceremonies

Tickets: Full pass ~$200-400 USD; single-day ~$50-80 USD

April 2026

Ubud Food Festival (April 22-26, 2026)  – Three-day culinary celebration with cooking demonstrations, chef talks, food markets showcasing Indonesian and Balinese cuisine.

Activities:

• Live cooking demonstrations
• "Tasting Indonesia" pavilion
• Panel discussions on food sustainability
• Night Market with 50+ stalls
• Cocktail and arak tastings

Tickets: Day passes ~150,000-300,000 IDR

Gianyar Festival (Date TBA)  – Cultural parades, art exhibitions, and traditional performances celebrating Gianyar Regency's heritage.

Semarapura Festival (Date TBA)  – Honors Klungkung's royal history with traditional dances, temple tours, and historical exhibitions.

May 2026

Festival Bahari Badung (Date TBA)  – Coastal celebration with traditional boat races, maritime parades, and beach activities in Badung Regency.

Bali Blues Festival (Date TBA)– Two-day blues music festival in Nusa Dua featuring Indonesian and international blues artists.

Buleleng Art Festival (Date TBA)– North Bali's showcase of traditional and contemporary arts, crafts, and performances.

June 2026  (PEAK CULTURAL SEASON)

Bali Arts Festival (June 15 – July 13, 2026)  – Bali's largest and longest-running cultural festival, held at Taman Werdhi Budaya Art Centre in Denpasar. Month-long celebration featuring daily traditional dances (Legong, Barong, Kecak), gamelan music, art exhibitions, craft workshops, and cultural competitions.

Opening: Grand parade at Bajra Sandhi Monument in Renon Square on June 15

FREE ENTRY to most events!

2026 Theme: To be announced

What to see:

• Traditional dance performances daily
• Gamelan music competitions
• Art exhibitions
• Craft workshops (wood carving, silver making, batik)
• Cultural seminars

Schedule:

• Morning: 10 AM-12 PM (workshops)
• Afternoon: 2-5 PM (exhibitions)
• Evening: 7-10 PM (main performances)

Galungan (June 17, 2026 - WEDNESDAY)  – Bali's most important Hindu celebration marking the victory of good (Dharma) over evil (Adharma). Streets adorned with tall bamboo penjor poles decorated with offerings. Ancestors believed to descend to Earth during this 10-day period.

What it means: Ancestral spirits visit their families. It's Bali's "homecoming" festival—families reunite, prepare elaborate offerings, celebrate together.

Visual spectacle: Every street across the island is adorned with penjor (tall bamboo poles arching over roads, decorated with coconut leaves, flowers, fruits). The entire island becomes an outdoor art gallery.

What happens:

• June 14 (Penyajaan): Families make traditional cakes
• June 16 (Penampahan): Preparation of ceremonial foods
• June 17 (Galungan Day):
  • Families dress in traditional temple attire
  • Morning temple visits with offerings
  • Feasting on special dishes (lawar, satay, babi guling)
  • Family gatherings and ceremonies
• June 18-26: Visiting relatives, continued ceremonies
• June 27: Kuningan Day (spirits return to heaven)

For travelers:

• Most photogenic time to visit Bali
• Incredible cultural immersion
• Many local businesses close 1-3 days
• Roads crowded
• Accommodation 20-30% more expensive
• Book early!

Best locations: Ubud (elaborate penjor), Sanur (relaxed), rice terrace areas (stunning photos)

Tenganan Pandan War (June 21-23, 2026)  – Ancient ritual combat using thorny pandan leaves in Tenganan Village, one of Bali's oldest traditional communities. Part of the Usaba Sambah ceremony. Men engage in ritual battles to honor the gods.

What to expect:

• Morning prayers start ~8 AM
• Ritual combat begins ~10 AM
• One-on-one battles with pandan leaves
• Blood offerings to honor Indra (Hindu god of war)
• Supervised for safety despite appearance

Visitor tips:

• Entry donation: 20,000-50,000 IDR
• Dress respectfully
• Observe from designated areas
• Photography with permission
• 1.5 hours from Ubud, 2 hours from Seminyak

Kuningan (June 27, 2026 - SATURDAY)  – Ten days after Galungan, this day marks when ancestral spirits return to heaven. Balinese prepare yellow rice offerings (nasi kuning) and make final prayers.

What it means: End of Galungan festival period. Day of gratitude as spirits depart.

Activities:

• Morning temple visits
• Yellow rice offerings
• Tamiang decorations (woven coconut ornaments)
• Final prayers and blessings

Atmosphere: Peaceful, reflective, grateful (vs. Galungan's celebratory mood)

July 2026

Bali Arts Festival continues (until July 13, 2026) – See June entry. Final week features best performances culminating in grand closing ceremony.

Bali Kite Festival (July 20-21, 2026) – Spectacular giant kites (up to 10 meters) fly over Padang Galak Beach in Sanur. Traditional kite designs include Bebean (fish), Janggan (bird), and Pecukan (leaf). Teams compete while sky fills with colorful displays.

Best viewing time: 10 AM - 3 PM when winds are strongest

What to see:

• 50+ teams competing
• Kites so large they need 20-40 people
• Sky filled with colorful flying giants
• Gamelan music
• Traditional competitions

Background: Originally a harvest thanksgiving to gods. Wind season (July-August) brings perfect breezes.

Makepung Buffalo Races (July onwards, Sundays) – Traditional buffalo chariot races in Jembrana, West Bali. Decorated water buffaloes race along 2-kilometer dirt tracks. Races occur throughout July-October, culminating in Jembrana Cup (Bupati Cup) on August 24, 2026.

Penglipuran Village Festival (July 7-9, 2026)  – Heritage village celebration with traditional markets, cultural performances, and crafts in one of Bali's most well-preserved traditional villages.

August 2026

Ubud Village Jazz Festival (August 1-2, 2026) – Intimate, eco-friendly international jazz festival at Sthala Ubud. Over 100 talented jazz artists from Indonesia and around the world perform across two nights in a jungle setting. Focuses on sustainability and cultural celebration.

Tickets: ~300,000-800,000 IDR

Indonesia Independence Day (August 17, 2026) 🇮🇩 – National holiday celebrating Indonesia's 1945 independence. Island-wide flag ceremonies, traditional games (panjat pinang, balap karung), parades, and decorations. Bali celebrates with events in every village.

What happens:

• Flag ceremonies at government buildings
• Traditional games and competitions
• Parades in major towns
• Red and white decorations everywhere

Traveler impact:

• Government offices closed
• Many businesses closed/reduced hours
• Tourist areas mostly open
• Festive atmosphere

Lovina Festival (August 23-25, 2026) – Three-day celebration of north Bali's culture and natural beauty in Lovina Beach area. Features dolphin watching tours, traditional Bungbung dance, puppet shows, music performances, and fireworks.

Sanur Village Festival (Late August 2026)– Week-long beach festival with traditional boat races, cultural performances, food bazaars, and beach activities along Sanur beachfront.

September 2026 

Balinale Film Festival (Date TBA) – International short film festival with pop-up cinemas in malls, hotels, and beaches around Denpasar and Sanur. Screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and workshops celebrating global cinema.

Mas Village Festival (Date TBA) – Celebration in Mas Village (Ubud area) highlighting traditional wood carving craftsmanship. Features carving competitions, art exhibitions, kecak dance competitions, and evening music festival.

Waterbom Weekender (September 21-22, 2026) – Music and entertainment event at Waterbom Bali water park.

Bali Carnival (September 26 – October 2, 2026) – Week-long cultural carnival with colorful costumes, parades, and performances.

October 2026 

Sanur Village Festival (October 16-20, 2026) – Five-day beach celebration featuring traditional boat races, cultural parades, food stalls, art exhibitions, and musical performances along Sanur Beach.

Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (October 23-27, 2026)  – Southeast Asia's premier literary festival. Five days of author talks, readings, workshops, panel discussions, and book launches. International and Indonesian writers gather in Ubud for intellectual exchange and storytelling.

What happens:

• 100+ authors
• Literary lunches/dinners
• Panel discussions
• Poetry readings
• Book launches
• Film screenings
• Children's program

Tickets: Full pass ~$150-200 USD; individual events available

Nusa Penida Festival (Date TBA) – Eco-tourism festival on Nusa Penida island highlighting marine conservation, cultural performances, and sustainable tourism practices.

Perang Tipat Bantal (Date TBA)  – Traditional rice cake throwing ritual at Kuningan celebration in Kapal Village. Villagers throw tipat (rice cakes) at each other in harvest thanksgiving ceremony.

November 2026

Legian Beach Festival (Date TBA) – Beach celebration from Stones Hotel to Padma Resort Legian. Over 100 booths with local handicrafts, music performances, bartending shows, fashion shows, and culinary competitions.

December 2026

Denpasar Festival (Late December, typically Dec 27-29)  – Three-day annual celebration in Bali's capital around Catur Muka Statue. Features traditional dances, art displays, cultural performances, games, competitions, and food stalls showcasing Balinese cuisine. Family-friendly event.

Pemuteran Bay Festival (Date TBA)  – Marine conservation festival in northwest Bali celebrating coral reef restoration and sustainable tourism in Pemuteran Bay.

New Year's Eve (December 31, 2026) – Island-wide celebrations ranging from beach club parties and exclusive events to intimate dinners. Major celebration areas: Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, Sanur, Nusa Dua.

Major spots:

• Seminyak: Potato Head, Ku De Ta, beach clubs ($50-500/person)
• Canggu: Finns, La Brisa, surf vibe ($30-200)
• Ubud: Wellness-focused, riverside ($40-300)
• Sanur: Family-friendly ($50-250)
• Nusa Dua: Luxury resorts ($100-500+)

Important: Heavy traffic around midnight. Stay within walking distance of venue. Book 2-3 months ahead.

Best Months to Visit for Multiple Festivals

Pros: Rich cultural variety, authentic ceremonies, photogenic events, deep spiritual experiences

Cons: Crowded venues, accommodation rates 20-40% higher, roads congested on festival days, some businesses close for religious holidays

Planning Your Festival Trip to Bali

Best Booking Timeline:

3-6 Months Before: Book flights and accommodation for major festivals (Nyepi, Galungan, Bali Arts Festival). International flights and popular hotels fill quickly.

2-3 Months Before: Research specific festival events, book villa/hotel with festival packages (especially for Nyepi), arrange private transport if needed.

1 Month Before: Confirm exact festival dates with local sources, book any ticketed events, plan daily itinerary around festival schedules.

2 Weeks Before: Stock up on information about festival locations, times, etiquette. For Nyepi: buy snacks, books, entertainment as you'll be indoors 24 hours.

Budget Impact by Festival Type:

Religious Festivals (Nyepi, Galungan, Kuningan):

- Accommodation: +20-30% premium

- Transport: Limited availability, +20% surge pricing

- Dining: Some closures, normal prices where open

- Activities: Free temple ceremonies, no entry fees

Cultural Festivals (Bali Arts Festival, Village Festivals):

- Accommodation: +30-50% in festival areas

- Transport: Heavy traffic, book drivers early

- Dining: Normal to +10%

- Activities: Mostly FREE entry

Modern Festivals (Jazz, Blues, Food Festivals):

- Accommodation: +20-40% in nearby areas

- Transport: Normal rates

- Dining: Festival food premium pricing

- Tickets: 150,000-1,500,000 IDR depending on event

Transportation During Festivals:

Heavy Traffic Days: Galungan Eve, Nyepi Eve (Ogoh-Ogoh), Bali Arts Festival opening, major ceremony days.

Solutions: Stay within walking distance of festival venues, rent scooter (international license required), book private driver for full day (600,000-800,000 IDR), use Grab/Gojek apps but expect surge pricing.

Road Closures: Nyepi Day (all roads closed), Ogoh-Ogoh parade routes (evening closures), major procession routes (temporary closures).

Where to Stay for Major Festivals:

For Nyepi: Any hotel/villa with pool, entertainment, meal service. Request "Nyepi Package" - usually includes 2 nights minimum, all meals, activities.

For Bali Arts Festival: Denpasar area hotels, or Sanur (20 min drive). Avoid Ubud/Canggu (45+ min in traffic).

For Beach Festivals (Sanur, Legian): Beachfront hotels for walking access.

For Ubud Festivals: Central Ubud for walking to venues.

What to Pack for Festival Season:

Clothing: Sarong + sash (can buy locally 50,000-150,000 IDR), modest cotton clothes, comfortable walking shoes, hat for outdoor events.

Essentials: Sunscreen SPF 50+, insect repellent, small backpack, reusable water bottle, cash in small bills (many vendors don't accept cards).

For Nyepi: Books, tablets with downloaded content, games, snacks, full phone charge (limited electricity use).

Photography: Camera with good zoom for ceremonies (don't get too close), extra batteries, respectful shooting (always ask permission).

Cultural Etiquette for Attending Balinese Festivals

• Dress appropriately – Wear a sarong and sash for temple events; modest beachwear for coastal festivals.
• Photography – Ask before taking close-ups, especially during prayers.
• Respect offerings – Never step over or move temple offerings; walk around them.
• Donations – Small cash contributions show respect; use provided boxes.
• Follow local instructions – Festival marshals or temple guards guide visitors on behavior.
  [Icon: Warning – inappropriate dress or behavior can lead to denial of entry]

Practical Travel Tips for Festival-Goers

• Confirm dates a few weeks before travel; some shift with lunar calendars.
• Book accommodation early for popular events.
• Use motorbikes or shuttle buses to avoid traffic jams.
• Pack light: festival gear, sun protection, rain jacket, comfortable shoes.
• Keep small bills for donations or purchases.

FAQ about Bali Festivals

 

Can tourists join all festivals?

Most are open to visitors; temple rituals require modest dress (sarong, sash, covered shoulders) and respectful behavior. Some temple ceremonies may be closed to non-Hindus during prayer times.

How do I check exact festival dates for my travel dates?

Ask your hotel concierge, check Bali tourism board websites (disparda.baliprov.go.id), or follow official Bali event social media accounts. Many dates shift due to the Pawukon and Saka calendars.

What should I wear to temple events?

Sarong and sash (selendang) are mandatory for temple visits. Cover shoulders and knees. Traditional attire is often available for rent/loan at temple entrances for 20,000-50,000 IDR. Women on their period should not enter temple premises (traditional rule).

Are there entrance fees?

Traditional religious festivals are FREE. Cultural festivals like Bali Arts Festival are also FREE. Modern music/food festivals may charge 100,000-500,000 IDR or more depending on the event.

Which festivals are most photogenic?

Bali Kite Festival (colorful sky displays), Ogoh-Ogoh parades (giant demon statues), Galungan decorations (penjor poles), Bali Arts Festival opening parade, Melasti processions (white-clad devotees).

How does Nyepi affect my travel plans?

Nyepi (March 29, 2025) means NO flights in/out of Bali for 24 hours, no taxis/transport, you must stay indoors at your hotel/villa. Book accommodation with entertainment/activities. Stock up on snacks before Nyepi Day. It's a unique experience but requires planning.

Do hotels/restaurants close during Galungan and Kuningan?

Tourist areas (Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud) stay mostly open but with reduced hours. Family-run local businesses often close for 1-3 days. Large hotels and international restaurants remain operational. Plan ahead for dining options.

How far in advance should I book accommodation for major festivals?

Book 2-3 months ahead for Nyepi, Galungan, and Bali Arts Festival. Prices increase 20-40% during peak festivals. Last-minute bookings may be limited or very expensive.

Can I participate in religious ceremonies as a tourist?

Observation is welcome with respect. Active participation (making offerings, joining prayers) is at the discretion of temple priests. Always ask permission, dress properly, and follow local guidance. Never step over offerings on the ground.

What's the difference between Galungan and Kuningan?

Galungan marks when ancestral spirits descend to Earth (celebration begins). Kuningan, 10 days later, marks when spirits return to heaven (celebration concludes). Both require offerings and temple visits but Galungan is the bigger, more festive day.

Key Takeaways

Bali's festivals follow multiple calendars: Most major religious festivals use the 210-day Pawukon calendar or lunar Saka calendar, meaning dates change yearly. Always verify 2025 dates before booking travel.

Two peak festival seasons: April-May (Galungan cycle 1 + food festivals) and June-August (Bali Arts Festival + kite festival + jazz festival) offer the densest cultural experiences but also highest prices and crowds.

Nyepi is non-negotiable: March 29, 2025 - the entire island shuts down for 24 hours. Airport closed, no movement allowed. Plan accommodation carefully with entertainment options or embrace the unique silent meditation experience.

Book early, save money: Accommodation rates jump 20-40% during major festivals. Booking 2-3 months ahead secures better prices and availability.

Free cultural immersion: Most traditional festivals (Galungan, Bali Arts Festival, temple ceremonies) are FREE to attend. You only pay for modern music/food festivals.

Respect equals access: Proper dress (sarong, covered shoulders), polite behavior, and cultural sensitivity ensure you're welcomed at ceremonies. Never step over offerings, ask before photographing prayers, and follow temple etiquette.

Transportation planning is key: Festival days mean heavy traffic and road closures. Stay near venues, rent scooters, or book private drivers in advance.

Experience authentic Bali: Festivals reveal the spiritual heart of Balinese culture beyond beaches and clubs. They're your chance to witness living traditions and connect with local communities.

 

Plan your Bali trip now around the festivals that excite you most and immerse yourself in the island’s living culture.

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