Bali is famous for its vibrant culture, and it’s no surprise that this island hosts a series of cultural festivals ready to make anyone fall for its long-standing traditions. This year, Bali is once again set to captivate visitors with various art events, traditions, and culinary festivals that’ll keep you entertained.
Usually, these festivals include traditional music performances, art exhibitions, religious rituals, and lively parades. They also serve as a reunion for local residents, tourists, and folks from different regions. If you’re planning a vacation to Bali, you don’t want to miss all the fun at these cultural festivals. Let’s explore them one by one!
List of Cultural Festivals in Bali 2025
Curious about these cultural festivals? Check out the following list of events that will be happening this year. Make sure you mark your calendar!
1. Kasanga Festival
Kasanga Festival is often known for its Ogoh-Ogoh parade, usually held the night before Nyepi. Ogoh-Ogoh are giant effigies depicting mythical creatures or monsters that symbolize negative human traits. After being paraded around, they’re usually burned as a sign of spiritual cleansing.
The Ogoh-Ogoh parade never fails to grab attention. You’ll be amazed at the intricate work by local artists who craft these figures in incredible detail. The mystical and magical vibe gets even stronger once the ritual begins. This parade usually happens across various villages in Bali, particularly in the Denpasar, Kuta, and Ubud areas. Since it’s tied to the Nyepi calendar, Kasanga Festival 2025 will likely fall in March 2025.
2. Bali Arts Festival
The Bali Arts Festival (PKB) is a cultural event featuring numerous art performances, craft exhibitions, and other cultural showcases. In 2025, PKB is expected to remain a top attraction for art enthusiasts, from traditional to contemporary styles.
PKB often highlights traditional Balinese dances like Legong and Barong, as well as dramatic performances presented in creative ways. You can also find exhibitions of paintings, wood carvings, and traditional culinary stands offering a variety of dishes. All regions in Bali bring out their best performances. In fact, it’s not uncommon for important officials and famous art figures to attend.
The Bali Arts Festival usually takes place at the Taman Budaya Art Centre in Denpasar for about a full month. Unless there’s a change, the 2025 edition will likely run from June to July 2025.
3. Semapura Festival
The Semarapura Festival is a cultural event held in Klungkung, Bali. The location might not be as well-known as Denpasar or Ubud, but that’s where its charm lies. This festival is dedicated to commemorating the Puputan Klungkung battle—an important conflict in 1908 between the Klungkung Kingdom and Dutch colonial forces.
One of the highlights of the Semarapura Festival is the cultural parade showcasing traditional outfits, gamelan music, and various local competitions. There’s also a UMKM (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) fair, plus plenty of culinary options where you can taste different types of traditional snacks and unique Balinese dishes. The festival typically centers around the Alun-Alun in Klungkung’s main town. This year, Semapura Festival is expected to happen around April–May 2025.
4. Bali Spirit Festival
The Bali Spirit Festival is a perfect spot for anyone who loves music, yoga, meditation, and the wellness lifestyle. It blends Bali’s spiritual vibe with a modern and inclusive lifestyle, reflecting the core mantra of Balinese Hinduism, “Tri Hita Karana.” Excitingly, this festival brings together diverse music genres like world music, reggae, and even electronic tunes. It also features yoga sessions, meditation, art workshops, dance, and discussions focused on achieving harmony between body, mind, and nature. If you’re feeling burned out, the Bali Spirit Festival is the ideal place to recharge your energy.
It’s usually held in the Ubud area, at venues that immerse you in nature. This year, the Bali Spirit Festival is rumored to take place in May 2025.
5. Ubud Food Festival
Who says cultural festivals in Bali are all about dancing and traditional performances? If you’re into food, the Ubud Food Festival is a must-visit event. It showcases diverse Indonesian cuisine, with a focus on Balinese specialties, plus fusion dishes that are gaining buzz among up-and-coming local chefs.
The Ubud Food Festival offers cooking demos, workshops, and talks with international chefs, as well as pop-up restaurants serving creative menus. You’ll also have the chance to sample traditional dishes presented in modern ways. Don’t miss the culinary market where you can try satay lilit, babi guling, and single-origin coffee that’s currently on the rise.
This festival typically takes place at various spots in Ubud, from culinary centers to museums and art galleries transformed into unique venues. This year, the Ubud Food Festival is scheduled for around May 30 – June 2, 2025.
6. Bali International Film Festival (Balinale)
The Bali International Film Festival, or Balinale, is set to add to the excitement of Bali’s cultural festivities from a cinematic standpoint. This year, Balinale will likely be held from June 1 – 7, 2025, featuring films spanning various genres, countries, and cultural backgrounds. It’s not just about entertainment but also a key platform for filmmakers to share their ideas, promote their work, and discuss the art of cinema.
The festival typically screens independent films, documentaries, and even mainstream blockbusters that are currently in the spotlight. After some screenings, there are Q&A sessions with directors, producers, or actors involved. If you dream of making your own film or you’re simply a huge movie buff, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn firsthand from the experts. Sometimes, the films shown at Balinale aren’t even released in commercial theaters, so you could be among the first to see exclusive screenings that might go global later on.
7. Bali Kite Festival
Bali has a unique tradition of flying giant kites. It’s not just kids who play, but adults too—these kites can get seriously huge, sometimes reaching several meters in length. This festival shows off kites of many shapes and colors, creating a beautiful sight across Bali’s skies. Some are shaped like dragons, birds, or even abstract designs that are extremely inventive.
Besides testing skill and technique, there’s often a category to judge the most creative kite design. The sound of gamelan baleganjur often sets the mood, especially as groups of participants march to the beach carrying their giant kites with the rhythms of traditional music playing. It’s an amazing atmosphere—like a creative carnival in the sky.
The Bali Kite Festival usually takes place at Padang Galak Beach near Sanur, roughly between June and August 2025.
Read more: Water Bomb Bali 2025: The Biggest K-Pop Festival Plus Your Dream Getaway in the Island of the Gods
Why You Should Check Out Bali’s Cultural Festivals
Here are a few reasons to put these Bali cultural festivals on your itinerary during your stay:
- A Deeper Cultural Understanding: These festivals aren’t just spectacles. They’re gateways to learning about Bali’s local wisdom—like Hindu philosophy, woodcarving, sacred dance, and culinary traditions passed down through generations.
- Chances to Meet People: No need to worry if you’re traveling alone. Balinese folks are famously welcoming. Festivals bring together people from all walks of life. You might find new friends, travel buddies, or even business partners.
- Unlimited Inspiration: Whether you’re into traditional dance, food, or film, the festival atmosphere can boost your creativity. Who knows—you might leave with fresh ideas you’re ready to bring to life.
- Instagram-Worthy Spots: Nearly every festival has unique, vibrant decorations and attractions. Even the smaller parades in local villages can make for amazing photo ops.
- A Chance to Try New Food: Several festivals include stands selling local treats—anything from traditional snacks to legendary street food. It’s a dream come true for foodies looking to taste a variety of dishes while watching them being prepared.
- Feel More Alive: All these festivals radiate positive vibes and a spirit of togetherness. If you’re feeling blah, the lively festival scene can seriously lift your mood.
Experience Bali’s Cultural Festivals with Bali Premium Trip
Already imagining how amazing the cultural festivals in Bali will be in 2025? Don’t just watch them on social media—take part for real! With the island’s diverse customs and Hindu traditions, these festivals are a gateway to truly getting to know Balinese culture.
So, got an idea which festival you’d like to see? Whatever your pick, every festival has its own energy that’ll open your eyes to the rich mix of art, culture, and creativity, both from Balinese communities and international visitors. If you’re curious about traveling to Bali and joining the festivities but don’t want to deal with planning transportation or itineraries, Bali Premium Trip is here to help! You can even rent a luxury cars for cruising to these festival venues. Sounds fun, right? Go ahead and make your reservation now!
Read more: Discover Your Dream Bali Tour in 2025: Premium Packages Make Bali Trip Easy
