Sulawesi Events, Things to Do and Festivals 2014 / 2015

(Sulawesi, Sunda Islands, Indonesia)

There are plenty of seasonal festivals awaiting visitors to the island of Sulawesi, providing the opportunity to join in with both traditional celebrations and more touristy events. Things to do on Sulawesi range from summer parties and open-air concerts, to national Indonesian holidays, horse racing and food festivals at Fort Rotterdam, in Makassar.

If you are staying in South Sulawesi during the month of April, then be sure to check out the exciting Kedari Bay Festival. Known locally as the Teluk Kendari and based within Kendari, the capital of the south-east province, this popular event includes exciting dragon boat races and lots of traditional Indonesian music.

Sulawesi Calendar of Festivals and Events 2014 / 2015

The unquestionable highlight within the calendar of events for Central Sulawesi is the yearly Festival Danau Poso, which is staged towards the end of August, within the town of Tentena. Villagers and tourists alike arrive here from far and wide, to enjoy the colourful cultural festivities, dancing and sports events, with large crowds of visitors both watching and joining in the revelry.

In Manado (North Sulawesi), there a number of fun annual events taking place. Particular favourites include the Tai Pei Kong Festival each February, and the local harvest festivals generally referred to as the Pengucapan Syukur, which can occur anytime in either June, July and August. Also popular are Manado's traditional horse races in mid-August.

June and July are two very busy months on Sulawesi, when lots of family friendly events are held. The Festival Danau Napabale is based as Latugho, in South Sulawesi, and comprises an unusual mixture of kite flying and horse combat events. During July and August, the Tana Toraja Funeral Festival is one not to be missed, with extravagant celebrations and endearing rituals.