The Denpasar City Government will hold the Festival of Lantern Lights to celebrate Chinese New Year 2026 and the 238th anniversary of Denpasar City.
The plan was revealed when Mayor I Gusti Ngurah Jaya Negara met with community representatives at the Mayor’s Office on Monday (February 9, 2026).
The festival will run from February 17 to 20, 2026, featuring around 700 illuminated lanterns across central Denpasar, from Jalan Gajah Mada to the Mayor’s Office and Jalan Kartini, creating a festive Lunar New Year atmosphere.
“Happy Chinese New Year 2026. This festival reflects the harmony between Chinese culture and Balinese local wisdom, while also strengthening tolerance and unity in Denpasar City,” said Jaya Negara.
Mayor Jaya Negara emphasized that the event is not only a cultural celebration but also a means of education, social cohesion, and support for cultural tourism.
As part of the festival, Jalan Kartini will showcase traditional Chinese culinary offerings, reinforcing its role as a hub of Chinese community activities in Denpasar. Looking ahead, the city government plans to further develop the area to highlight its cultural identity while respecting local traditions, including ceremonies such as ngaben (cremation rites).
Head of the Denpasar Tourism Office Ni Luh Putu Riyastiti explained that lantern installations are being carried out in collaboration with local cultural organizations.
“Lanterns symbolize good fortune, happiness, and hope for the future. The red color represents prosperity, togetherness, and light in the midst of darkness,” she said.
The Festival of Lantern Lights will also be combined with a Café Festival involving local MSMEs along Jalan Gajah Mada, including Bhineka Djaja, Pizza Tjahaja, Kafe Jago, BKKOFFEE, and Terasa Seperti Kopi Minggu. Acoustic performances by Denpasar’s youth will add to the lively atmosphere.
Additional activities include a mass exercise event titled “One Step, Many Colors: Weaving Togetherness” on February 15, 2026, at Puputan Badung Field, as well as community clean-up efforts and blood donation drives. The peak celebration will take place on February 20, 2026, at Hongkong Garden Restaurant.
The lantern installations and social activities are supported by the Indonesian Chinese Association (INTI) Bali, whose involvement highlights the collaboration between local government and community organizations in making the celebration festive, inclusive, and impactful for cultural tourism and the local economy.
Sources : BeritaDewata.com, AntaraBali
Feat Image : via AntaraNews//Rolandus Nampu