Bali Festivals 2026–2027: Month-by-Month Calendar & Dates

Updated October 1, 2026: This Bali festivals calendar starts with the events still ahead in late 2026 and the major dates already available for 2027, followed by the detailed 2026 month-by-month archive. Use it to compare religious observances, cultural festivals, and ticketed events before choosing travel dates. Keep BitJoy handy for destination planning, and read how an eSIM works if you want mobile data for maps and schedule checks in Bali.

Introduction to Bali’s Festivals

Bali’s calendar combines the 210-day Pawukon cycle, the lunar Saka calendar, Indonesia’s national holidays, and organizer-run food, music, film, and literary festivals. That is why a useful list must distinguish a religious calendar date from an event schedule that can move or be announced later.

Date labels used below: “confirmed” means the named organizer published the date; “calendar date” identifies a traditional or public observance; and “TBC” means we did not find a reliable final 2026 or 2027 schedule as of October 1, 2026. Recheck the organizer, your hotel, or the Bali Provincial Tourism Office before making a non-refundable booking.

Balinese festivals blend religious devotion, artistic performance, and community life. Temple ceremonies may spill into streets, beaches, and public squares, but they remain acts of worship rather than staged attractions. Visitors are usually welcome when they follow local dress, photography, and access instructions.

How to Use This Guide

Start with the future-facing table, then use the detailed monthly entries for cultural meaning, locations, and traveler impact. A past 2026 date is kept as an archive and is labeled accordingly; it should not be used to plan a future trip.

• Religious observance: the day follows a Balinese calendar and local ceremony times can vary.
• Organizer-run festival: use the official event site for the final program, venue, and ticket terms.
• TBC: treat the event as a possibility until an official schedule appears.

For mobile data during the trip, compare the live coverage and terms of current eSIM plans for Indonesia.

Upcoming Bali Festivals: October 2026 to August 2027

Source check: Organizer-run dates above link to the organizer. Traditional dates should still be confirmed locally because individual temple and village programs are not centralized.

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. If donations are requested, use the current amount suggested by local organizers.

February

Chinese New Year (February 17, 2026; concluded)  – 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: For any Nyepi edition, do not schedule a flight or road transfer during the official shutdown. Confirm the airport closure and your accommodation’s Nyepi rules before booking.

Melasti Ceremonies (around March 17–18, 2026; local schedules varied)  – 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.

April 2026

BaliSpirit Festival (April 15–19, 2026; concluded) – Five days of yoga, dance, meditation, healing arts, music, and workshops in Ubud. The previous version of this guide placed it in the wrong month. For the next edition, the official BaliSpirit site lists April 22–25, 2027.

Planning note: Check the official venue, program, pass terms, and accommodation guidance for the edition you plan to attend; these details can change.

Gianyar Festival (2026 date not independently confirmed)  – Cultural parades, art exhibitions, and traditional performances celebrating Gianyar Regency's heritage.

Semarapura Festival (2026 date not independently confirmed)  – Honors Klungkung's royal history with traditional dances, temple tours, and historical exhibitions.

May 2026

Ubud Food Festival (May 28–31, 2026; concluded) – A culinary program of cooking demonstrations, chef talks, food markets, sustainability discussions, and Indonesian food experiences. The previous version of this guide placed it in the wrong month. Use the official Ubud Food Festival site for the next edition and current ticket terms.

Festival Bahari Badung (2026 date not independently confirmed)  – Coastal celebration with traditional boat races, maritime parades, and beach activities in Badung Regency.

Bali Blues Festival (2026 date not independently confirmed)– Two-day blues music festival in Nusa Dua featuring Indonesian and international blues artists.

Buleleng Art Festival (2026 date not independently confirmed)– North Bali's showcase of traditional and contemporary arts, crafts, and performances.

June 2026  (PEAK CULTURAL SEASON)

Bali Arts Festival (June 13–July 11, 2026; concluded)  – 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: The 2026 program opened June 13; future opening venues and schedules should be checked with Bali tourism authorities.

FREE ENTRY to most events!

2026 archive: Check the official Bali Arts Festival archive for the final theme and daily program.

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
• Local rooms and transport can fill around major ceremonies
• Book early!

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

Tenganan Pandan War (Usaba Sambah timing varies; confirm with Tenganan village)  – 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:

• Carry small notes if the community requests a donation
• 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 continued until July 11, 2026 – See June entry. Final week features best performances culminating in grand closing ceremony.

Bali Kite Festival (July–August wind season; exact competition dates vary) – 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. Race meetings are announced locally across the dry season; confirm the current Jembrana schedule before traveling west for one.

Penglipuran Village Festival (2026 schedule requires local confirmation)  – 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 7–8, 2026; concluded) – 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: Check the organizer’s current sales page; pass types and prices change by edition.

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 (2026 dates require official confirmation) – 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 (date varies)– Week-long beach festival with traditional boat races, cultural performances, food bazaars, and beach activities along Sanur beachfront.

September 2026 

Balinale Film Festival (2026 date not independently confirmed) – 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 (2026 date not independently confirmed) – 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 (2026 schedule requires organizer confirmation) – Music and entertainment event at Waterbom Bali water park.

Bali Carnival (2026 schedule requires organizer confirmation) – Week-long cultural carnival with colorful costumes, parades, and performances.

October 2026 

Sanur Village Festival (2026 dates require official confirmation) – 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 21–25, 2026; confirmed)  – 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: Use the official festival site for the current program, pass options, and prices.

Nusa Penida Festival (2026 date not independently confirmed) – Eco-tourism festival on Nusa Penida island highlighting marine conservation, cultural performances, and sustainable tourism practices.

Perang Tipat Bantal (2026 date not independently confirmed)  – 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 (2026 date not independently confirmed) – 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; 2026 dates TBC)  – 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 (2026 date not independently confirmed)  – 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: beach clubs and ticketed parties; check each venue’s terms
• Canggu: beach venues and a late-night surf-town atmosphere
• Ubud: dinners, wellness programs, and smaller gatherings
• Sanur: family-oriented beachfront events
• Nusa Dua: resort dinners and ticketed celebrations

Important: Expect road closures and heavy traffic around midnight. Stay within walking distance when possible and confirm the venue’s transport plan.

Best Months to Visit for Multiple Festivals

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

Cons: Crowded venues, limited nearby rooms, congested roads, and reduced business hours around religious holidays

Planning Your Festival Trip to Bali

Before booking: identify whether the date comes from a religious calendar, an official organizer, or an unconfirmed local listing. Save the official source and recheck it before the refund deadline for flights, rooms, and tickets.

• Nyepi: choose accommodation that clearly explains meals, lighting, internet, check-in, and the 24-hour stay-inside rule. Do not schedule an airport transfer during the closure.
• Galungan and Kuningan: expect family observances, temple visits, processions, and reduced hours at some locally run businesses.
• Bali Arts Festival: use the current provincial or organizer program for daily performance times rather than relying on an old yearly schedule.
• Ticketed festivals: buy through the official organizer and check venue, age limits, refund terms, and what the pass includes.

Transport: festival processions and parades can close streets temporarily. Stay within walking distance for dense events when practical, allow extra travel time, and use licensed transport. If renting a scooter, carry the licence and insurance required for your trip.

Where to stay: central Ubud is convenient for Ubud events; Denpasar or Sanur can reduce travel time to the Bali Arts Festival; a beachfront area can simplify access to local coastal events. Recheck the exact venue before choosing a non-refundable room.

What to bring: a sarong and sash for temple visits, modest breathable clothing, water, sun and rain protection, small cash for local donations, and a charged phone. Download your route because mobile coverage and road access can be disrupted.

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

What are the next Bali festivals after October 1, 2026?

The next dated events in this guide are the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival on October 21–25 and Saraswati on October 31. New Year’s Eve follows on December 31. Denpasar Festival is often held in late December, but its 2026 schedule was still TBC when this page was updated.

When is Nyepi in Bali in 2027?

Nyepi falls on March 8, 2027. Plan to remain at your accommodation during the official 24-hour silence period and avoid scheduling flights or road transfers during the shutdown. Ogoh-Ogoh processions are generally held the evening before, while Omed-Omedan follows on March 9 in Sesetan.

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 may be available to borrow or rent at some temple entrances; confirm locally. Women on their period should not enter temple premises (traditional rule).

Are there entrance fees?

Many public religious observances can be viewed without a ticket, although temple or site donations may apply. Organizer-run food, music, film, and literary events may require tickets; check the current official terms.

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 2026 fell on March 19 and has passed. The next Nyepi is March 8, 2027. During the official 24-hour period the airport and roads close and visitors must remain at their accommodation, so confirm flights, meals, lighting, internet, and property rules in advance.

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?

For Nyepi and large organizer-run festivals, reserve once official dates are available and use a refundable option while details can still change. Availability near venues may tighten well before the event.

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

• Next confirmed organizer-run event: Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, October 21–25, 2026.
• Next major religious dates: Saraswati on October 31, 2026; Galungan and Kuningan on January 13–23, 2027; and Nyepi on March 8, 2027.
• Date discipline matters: the Pawukon and Saka calendars move relative to the Gregorian calendar, while commercial event organizers can change schedules or venues.
• Confirmed and TBC are different: do not book around a TBC village or city festival until an official local source publishes the schedule.
• Respect brings access: follow temple dress, offering, photography, and procession instructions even when an event is open to visitors.

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

Get a Bali eSIM plan before arrival to stay connected throughout your festival celebrations.

Read more:

Wondering When Bali Is Most Beautiful?

Best eSIM for Indonesia – Coverage and Setup Guide

Complete Bali Travel Guide for Beginners – Plan Your Perfect Trip