Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, and there are so many fun things to do to celebrate. Though you won’t find snow-covered trees or freezing temperatures in Indonesia, celebrating with your loved ones or family can still get you in the festive mood with Christmas events and holiday activities.
This season’s list of the city’s top events and activities that you can enjoy makes this holiday season even more magical than it already is. Here are several things that you can do to celebrate in Indonesia!
Why Indonesia?
Indonesia is a great place to spend Christmas because it has many beautiful places and traditions that are fun to experience, rich culture, and lots of diversity. The weather at this time of the year is warm and sunny, which means you can enjoy spending time outside without getting too hot or cold.
Jakarta
Watch Christmas Carol in Jakarta’s Mall
Christmas won’t be complete without the Christmas tree. Good thing, there are several famous Malls in Jakarta such as Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK), Pondok Indah Mall, Mall of Indonesia, Grand Indonesia, and more, where they are showing a giant Christmas tree and hundreds of other stunning decorations.
Furthermore, you can enjoy an array of activities, such as live performances by popular Indonesian artists and free rides on Santa’s train. If you like shopping, there will be so many special offers during the Christmas season.
Read More: 10 Things to Do in Jakarta: Attractions and Activities
Make a Snowman at Trans Snow World
Nothing beats a day out with the family. You get to bond, laugh, and play together, what could have been better? However, for those of you who have never experienced playing in the snow, you can visit Trans Snow World.
Trans Snow World is an indoor snow park located in South Tangerang, Indonesia. It offers many different activities including skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and even creating your snowman. The entrance fee is IDR 250.000, every day from 10 am- 6 pm.
Surabaya
Christmas Eve Mass in Kepanjen Church
Kepanjen Church or also known as The Church of the Birth of Our Lady is one of the must-see Christmas tourist destinations in Surabaya. The church itself is one of several still active churches that serve as the site of the Christmas Eve Mass.
If you want to come to Surabaya and feel like you are here to celebrate Christmas Eve Mass, the best time to come is before Christmas. Besides, the church is also one of the quiet witnesses to the development of Surabaya city.
The architecture is a relic of the Dutch colonial era built in 1899 and consecrated in 1900.
Yogyakarta
Celebrate It in A Local Way
All religious ceremonies in this city are celebrated with a local twist. The church priest presides over Mass, wears the traditional Javanese attire Brangkon and Beskap, and speaks Javanese and/or English during the service.
There is usually a shadow puppet show depicting nativity and many other traditional puppet shows.
Toraja
Mingle with the locals of North Toraja during their traditional celebrations.
If you want to experience the real Christmas celebration in Indonesia, head to North Toraja, South Sulawesi, where the wonderful annual event ‘Lovely December’ is held.
This is the time when many cultural and tourist celebrations can be seen, including the famous Biasnaya Festival, the slaughter of a buffalo, and the famous Lettoan, which is paraded in three dimensions as a symbol of human life that starts with a procession of pigs.
Spending your holiday here not only allows you to enjoy Christmas traditions but also learn about how the locals celebrate Christmas.
Bali
Splurge on Gifts
Christmas shopping in Bali is fun and not boring, to say the least. The best way to pick up a unique gift is to visit a local market where you can find traditional Balinese handicrafts and food.
You’ll find a wide variety of items, including silver jewelry, tie-dye fabrics, and leather goods. Prices are generally cheaper than in the malls and other tourist destinations in Bali.
The local market you can choose from such Sukawati market, Ubud Art Market, or stores around Canggu.
Wellness Treat at Christmas
Since you are on a vacation, pampering yourself is a must. If you’re looking for a vacation to rejuvenate your mind and body, a yoga retreat is for you. Bali has many options, but one of the best places in Ubud is often called ‘the heart of Bali’. There are several reasons why you should visit this island paradise.
Read More: Holiday in Ubud: Best Things to Do and More
Party, Party all night
If you like to party, Bali is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and New Year. You can celebrate Christmas and New Year in Bali by joining one of the many parties that are organized throughout the island. The most popular party is held in Kuta Beach, Seminyak, and Canggu, which is considered a place where you can meet locals and tourists alike. Bali is home to great parties. If you are not a party person, you can also enjoy a quiet night in Bali. Many resorts and hotels will have special Christmas and New Year packages that include special foods and entertainment.
While you are planning to spend Christmas with your family and friends, remember that there is so much to enjoy in Indonesia. Don’t forget to pamper yourself, Indonesia has so many places to help rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit. Merry Christmas!
