Bali is famous for its beaches, yoga retreats, and iconic celebrations like Nyepi and Galungan. But beyond the guidebooks lies a side of the island most visitors never see - dozens of community rituals and local festivals that showcase the island’s soul, spirituality, and vibrant traditions. From symbolic battles to playful water fights, these seven lesser-known festivals offer a glimpse into Bali’s living culture.
1. Mekotek – The Stick Battle Festival
Location: Munggu Village, Mengwi
When: Held every six months during Kuningan Day, Mekotek typically falls in June or July, depending on the Pawukon (Balinese) calendar
In Mekotek, men clash with wooden poles in a ceremonial battle to ward off evil spirits and maintain balance in the village. The festival is unique to Munggu Village and is accompanied by traditional music and prayers, making it both a thrilling spectacle and a deeply spiritual event.
Highlights: Ritual stick fighting, community unity, traditional Balinese gamelan music
2. Ngerebeg – The Monster Parade
Location: Tegallalang, Ubud
When: Held every six months, Ngerebeg usually coincides with Galungan Day, which typically falls around March/April and September/October, depending on the Balinese Pawukon calendar.
During Ngerebeg, villagers dress in monster costumes and parade through the streets. The ritual is meant to balance good and evil forces, protecting the community from negative energies. Rarely witnessed by tourists, this festival is a hauntingly fascinating glimpse into Balinese spiritual practices.
Highlights: Traditional costumes, masked parades, village purification rituals
3. Usaba Sambah – Ancient Village Ritual
Location: Tenganan Pegringsingan
When: Usaba Sambah is held annually, usually taking place in June.
Usaba Sambah celebrates the village’s agricultural traditions and the god Dewa Indra. The highlight is Mekare-Kare, a ceremonial pandan battle, along with the erection of giant wooden swings for Meayunan, which symbolize the natural balance of life. This festival reflects Tenganan’s unique Bali Aga culture, the island’s original tribal society.
Highlights: Ritual pandan battles, giant wooden swings, sacred offerings
4. Perang Tipat Bantal – The Food Fight Festival
Location: Kapall Village
When: Perang Tipat Bantal is held annually, usually during Purnama Kapat (around October–November).
In this playful and colorful festival, villagers throw rice cakes (tipat) and pillows (bantal) at one another. The ritual symbolizes gratitude for a successful harvest and brings the community together in fun and laughter. It’s a perfect example of how Bali mixes ritual with celebration.
Highlights: Rice cake fights, harvest gratitude, community bonding
5. Mekepung – Buffalo Races of West Bali
Location: Jembrana, Bali
When: Mekepung is held annually, usually in July and November, during the harvest season.
Mekepung is a thrilling race where farmers compete in decorated water buffalo carts across muddy rice fields. Originally part of agricultural rituals to honor the land and its bounty, these races are now celebrated as spectacular local competitions attracting crowds from across the region.
Highlights: Buffalo cart races, rural traditions, seasonal celebrations
6. Siat Yeh – Water War Festival
Location: Banjar Teba, Desa Adat Jimbaran, Kabupaten Badung, Bali.
When: The Siat Yeh tradition in Jimbaran is held the day after Nyepi, during Ngembak Geni.
Siat Yeh is both fun and spiritual. Villagers splash water on each other in a ritual that purifies the body and soul. The festival is a lively combination of cleansing and play, celebrating community, ritual, and the power of water in Balinese belief.
Highlights: Water splashing rituals, purification ceremonies, communal fun
Why These Festivals Matter
While Bali is often portrayed as a tourist paradise with beaches and resorts, its true culture comes alive in local festivals. These events:
- Preserve centuries-old Balinese traditions
- Strengthen community bonds
- Offer a rare, immersive experience for visitors beyond the typical tourist trail
Quick Tips for Attending Local Festivals in Bali
- Check festival dates: Many are based on the 210-day Balinese Pawukon calendar and change annually.
- Dress respectfully: For temple and village ceremonies, bring a sarong and sash.
- Hire a local guide: Some village festivals are invite-only. A guide helps secure access.
- Bring small cash donations: Many rituals, like Ngelawang or local ceremonies, accept offerings.
Conclusion
Bali isn’t just beaches and brunch—it’s a living, breathing culture. These festivals reveal the island’s rich traditions, playful spirit, and spiritual depth. Next time you visit, step off the tourist path, witness a ceremony, and immerse yourself in Bali’s authentic cultural heartbeat.
Pro Tip: Save this guide and plan your trip to catch at least one of these unique festivals—it will be an experience you’ll never forget!
