Saturday, February 18, 2012

Seven Festivals in Borneo Not to Be Missed

Borneo's sunshine, vivid rainforests, and laid-back attitude are the perfect ingredients for outdoor festivals. The friendly people certainly know how to throw a party; festivals in Borneo are usually vibrant events with food, music, and good times for both locals and visitors!

You can find festivals in Borneo practically any time of year. With such a mix of indigenous cultures and religions there is always something to celebrate.

1. Rainforest Music Festival

The Rainforest World Music Festival is one of the largest music festivals in Southeast Asia. Held every year just outside of Kuching, the three-day concert features bands from nearly every continent. Musicians from all over the world showcase their traditional instruments in workshops throughout the day before the headlining bands take to the two main stages in the evening.

The Rainforest Music Festival takes place annually in July. The festival draws thousands to dance in the mud – make plans to attend early. Tickets can be purchased in Kuching or at the gate.

2. Miri Jazz Festival

Every May thousands of jazz enthusiasts flock to the city of Miri in northern Sarawak for two nights of world-class jazz performances. Well-known musicians from the US, Europe, and Asia get the crowd dancing rain or shine!

The $20 entrance ticket is a small price to pay for a great night of fun. Only a limited number of tickets are available at the gate, however tickets can be purchased online in advance.

3. Borneo International Kite Festival

The Borneo International Kite Festival began in 2005 as a small, local celebration and has quickly grown into one of the most pleasant festivals in Borneo. Hundreds of people gather in late September or early October to fly colorful and intriguing kites. Some kites are complex enough to require handling teams!

The festival is held annually at the Old Bintulu Airport in Bintulu, Sarawak; entrance is free. A week-long trade expo adds to the excitement.

4. Gawai Dayak

Gawai Dayak - also known as the Harvest Festival - is one of the most important celebrations for the Iban and other indigenous cultures in Sarawak. Traditional costumes, ritual music, a chicken sacrifice, and lots of locally-brewed rice wine make this event one of the most educational and entertaining in Sarawak.

Gawai Dayak is celebrated across Sarawak annually, beginning at sundown on May 31. The Sarawak Cultural Village outside of Kuching - the same venue as the Rainforest Music Festival - is just one of many places to witness the celebration of a good harvest. Sampling some of the traditional food in Kuching is half the fun.

Continue reading (Incl. Pics) at: Seven Festivals in Borneo Not to Be Missed
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1 comment:

Terence said...

Thanks for sharing the fascinating Seven Festivals in Borneo Not to Be Missed.