Wednesday, February 11th 2026 Reporter: Aldi Geri Lumban Tobing Translator: Nugroho Adibrata 129
(Foto: Istimewa)
From city-wide festivals to international-scale events, Jakarta is gearing up to dazzle for the Lunar New Year 2026. These festivities are designed to beef up Jakarta’s standing as an inclusive and culturally rich global hub, while serving as a significant milestone in the countdown to Jakarta’s 500th anniversary.
The celebrations are more than just a tradition; they represent the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry and its growing appeal as a top-tier urban tourism destination.
These events as a cultural melting pot where tradition and modern creativity
Andhika Permata, Head of the Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Department (Disparekraf), emphasized that this isn't just a ceremonial affair. Instead, it’s a key pillar of the city’s identity strategy.
"We’ve designed these events as a cultural melting pot where tradition and modern creativity go hand in hand. It’s our way of showing that Jakarta is a home for everyone, turning our diversity into a shot in the arm for our tourism and creative economy," he stated, Wednesday (2/12).
What’s in Store for Jakarta’s Lunar New Year? Check Out the Lineup:
Jakarta Lunar New Year Decoration Competition (February 12–17, 2026)
The Jakarta government is kicking things off with the Jakarta Lunar New Year Decoration Competition, a vibrant symbol of cultural harmony woven into the city’s public and commercial spaces.
By blending old-world charm with modern urban flair, the contest invites retailers, districts, and building managers to give the capital a festive makeover.
Beyond sprucing up the city, these iconic installations are designed to stop people in their tracks, boosting tourist footfall and giving the local economy a shot in the arm. It is all part of a broader mission to cement Jakarta’s status as a top-tier global destination.
Jakarta Lunar New Year Festival (February 13–17, 2026)
The celebration moves into high gear at the iconic Bundaran Hotel Indonesia with the Jakarta Lunar New Year Festival. The heart of the city will be bathed in light, featuring artistic installations and a dazzling array of Chinese cultural performances.
Channelling the spirit of the Year of the Fire Horse—a powerful symbol of grit and renewal—the festival provides an inclusive space that celebrates the Chinese-Indonesian community as an integral part of the city’s fabric. This event is designed to raise the bar for Jakarta’s urban tourism on the global stage.
Jakarta Lunar New Year Symphony (February 13, 2026)
"The Jakarta Lunar New Year Symphony is set to be a grand spectacle of unity and hope. Featuring a colossal ensemble of over 50 traditional Chinese instruments alongside the graceful Selendang Dendang dance, this one-hour extravaganza will take center stage at Bundaran HI.
Held in tandem with the main festival, the symphony proves that Lunar New Year is more than just a date on the calendar—it is a shared spirit that mirrors Jakarta’s standing as a culturally vibrant and inclusive global city.
Jakarta Chinatown Festival (February 15–17, 2026)
"Held at the Jakarta Pavilion in TMII, the Jakarta Chinatown Festival is a vibrant showcase of the Chinese heritage that has been woven into the fabric of the city’s identity for centuries.
With TMII serving as a perfect snapshot of Indonesia’s diversity, the festival features captivating Lion (Barongsai) and Dragon (Liong) dances. Through various art installations, domestic and international tourists alike are invited to dive deep into the rich history and narratives of Jakarta’s Peranakan culture.
Harmoni Jakarta: Powered by Jakarta City Branding (February 15–17, 2026)
Taking place at the iconic Blok M Hub—Jakarta’s urban hotspot—Harmoni Jakarta showcases a powerful collaboration of art, community, and creative innovation.
The event features artistic installations and Chinese-inspired performances infused with a modern twist, highlighting Blok M’s transformation into a bustling public space. This initiative puts a spotlight on Jakarta’s evolution into a cutting-edge and competitive global city.
Semarak Imlek Jakarta (February 16–17, 2026)
The National Monument (Monas) is set to become the centerpiece of the festivities with Semarak Imlek Jakarta. This event features state-of-the-art video mapping and art installations that marry technology with tradition.
The dynamic visuals and Lunar New Year symbols will bring the monument to life, offering an immersive experience that provides food for thought regarding the beauty of diversity and togetherness in the heart of the capital.
Jakarta Light Festival – Chinese New Year Edition (February 16–17, 2026)
"The historic Kota Tua district is set to be turned into a spectacular digital canvas through state-of-the-art video mapping technology. This festival creates a visual dialogue between Jakarta’s colonial heritage and its visionary future as an innovative global metropolis.
With its immersive and picture-perfect atmosphere, the event shines a light on Jakarta’s readiness to host world-class international events.
Jakarta Temple Festival (February 2026)
"The Jakarta Temple Festival serves as a heartfelt homage to the spiritual and historical roots that anchor the city's pluralistic soul.
Through an exploration of heritage temples, the festival invites people from all walks of life to celebrate harmony in diversity. It drives home the message that Jakarta is a bastion of tolerance, where every community's story is given center stage and truly valued.
Cap Go Meh Festival Jakarta (March 3, 2026)
As the curtain falls on the Lunar New Year season, Jakarta celebrates its most vibrant moment yet. The Cap Go Meh Festival at Pancoran Chinatown Point is a testament to the city's inclusive spirit and cultural harmony.
By blending tradition with modern global vision, this festival paves the way for a more cohesive and competitive Jakarta.
We invite the world to witness a showcase that shines a light on our diversity, ensuring that Jakarta remains a magnet for tourism and a true beacon of creativity on the international stage.