Indonesian Independence Day is a public holiday in Indonesia that is celebrated on the 17th of August each year and marks Indonesia’s independence from Dutch colonial rule.
Interestingly, while the country gained independence from the Netherlands in 1945, it was not until 2005 that the colonial rulers officially accepted the date. Since then, the country has held celebrations every year as a way to recognise the progress that Indonesia has made over the years.
Indonesian Independence Day 2025 Date Celebrations & Parade Bali
The Presidential Palace is decorated with red and white in recognition of the Indonesian flag, and the community comes together to clean up the streets and residences. Each year, a flag-raising ceremony is televised nationally and attended by the President, Vice President and military personnel.
Traditions include eating Indonesian crackers (known as ‘krupuk’) and cooking competitions. One of the most popular activities is the Panjat Pinang. This is where a palm tree trunk is erected and covered in grease. Prizes are hung from the top, and people are challenged to climb. If you make it to the top, you win the prize.
Visitors to Bali during this celebration can join the festivities by trying the local foods and watching the parades, cultural dances, air shows and marching bands. This day is significant to the Indonesian people, and people visiting during this time should treat these celebrations with the utmost respect.
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