Surabaya's Cultural Gems: Exploring the City's Unforgettable Festivals

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Surabaya, the capital of East Java, boasts a rich history and heritage. As the second-most populous city in Indonesia, it's known for its vibrant blend of Javanese, Chinese, and Madurese cultures. Not to mention, various historical events and its past as a trade hub during the Dutch colonial period have shaped Surabaya into the city we know today.
In the present days, various festivals are held to celebrate the goods and commemorate the sacrifice made by the heroes in the past. Here are some of the most popular ones.
- Parade Surabaya Juang
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Parade Surabaya Juang is an annual event held in Surabaya every November since 2008. As its name suggests, this event is held to commemorate the Indonesian Heroes' Day and the battle of Surabaya. This event incorporates more than 3,000 participants from different backgrounds, namely Veterans, members of the Forkopimda (Forum Komunikasi Pimpinan Daerah or Regional Leadership Communication Forum, in English), history enthusiasts, vintage bicycle enthusiasts, the police, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), students, and various other communities. The parade also features 500 historical reenactors from all over Indonesia.
Parade Surabaya Juang will be held along the route of approximately 2,5 km, starting from Tugu Pahlawan (Heroes Monument) to the Balai Pemuda (Surabaya City Square), presenting a parade with a heroic theme - using heroic costumes, war vehicles, and others. The parade route also features a collaborative display between theatrical attractions from the Battle of '45 combined with musical performances and poetry readings at various points along the parade route. This route passes many historical sites and buildings and was a war route during the colonial era to win the independence of the Republic of Indonesia.
- Surabaya Vaganza
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Surabaya Vaganza is one of the most anticipated events by the citizens of Surabaya. This annual event is typically organized to commemorate the city's anniversary, showcasing the rich heritage and diverse cultural influences that have shaped Surabaya's identity.The event features a vibrant display of colorful floats, traditional dance performances, musical ensembles, and marching bands, often depicting various aspects of Surabaya's history and culture.
A recent example is the 2023 Surabaya Vaganza, which featured the concept of a combined Flower and Culture Parade and a Light Parade. The Flower and Culture Parade will be held in the afternoon with a start in front of the Provincial Regional Development Planning Agency office East Java and finish at Alun-Alun Surabaya, while the Light Parade is held at night starting at Siola Building and finishing at Alun-Alun Surabaya.
- Surabaya Cross Culture International Folk Art Festival
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Surabaya Cross Culture International Folk Art Festival (SCCIFAF) is an annual event that represents cultural solidarity among nations and regions in Indonesia. It aims to promote appreciation for the differences between them.
In this arts and culture festival, people from other countries and regions in Indonesia gathered on Jalan Tunjungan wearing their best regional costume to perform a culture parade. Even more, SCCIFAF brings together performers and artists from across the globe, showcasing the diverse tapestry of music, dance, and traditional crafts. Delegations from countries like Japan, Thailand, China, South Korea, and many more share their unique cultural expressions on a grand stage. Indonesia itself is well-represented, with artists from various regions like Bali, Sumatra, and Kalimantan showcasing the diverse cultural landscape within the archipelago.
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Rujak Uleg Festival
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Festival Rujak Uleg (Rujak Uleg Festival) is the biggest rujak culinary festival, a routine agenda of the Surabaya City Government since 2004. Roughly a thousand participants join the festival, pounding rujak– a beloved Indonesian fruit salad– together while wearing unique costumes. The festival's highlight is a ceremonial pounding of rujak by VIP guests on a giant 2.5-meter stone mortar placed on the main stage, which itself is also shaped like a round rujak mortar. This is followed by all participants, accompanied by traditional music. All the rujak creations are then judged and prizes are awarded to the 60 best presenters. After the judging, the rujak is shared for free with the audience.
Beyond the spectacle, the festival offers UMKM booths, cultural performances showcasing Surabaya's diverse heritage, and a dazzling carnival fashion show with prizes. In 2024, the festival embraced the theme "The History of Rujak Cingur", The City Government served 731 portions of rujak uleg, reflecting the city's 731st anniversary, while festival participants distributed an additional 800 portions, solidifying the community spirit.
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Surabaya Pesta Pora :
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Surabaya Pestapora is an event that is held to celebrateSurabaya's birthday. It includes a variety of events, such as a festival at the beach, culinary festivals, and cultural performances. The most recent Surabaya Pestapora included a Festival Tepi Pantai (Beach Festival) held at THP Kenjeran near Jembatan Suroboyo from May 21-26, 2024 .
Surabaya Pestapora is a festival bursting with youthful energy. Held at the scenic THP Kenjeran, this event is a celebration of Surabaya's youth culture. Attendees enjoy competitions like 3x3 basketball, dance showcases, and martial arts demonstrations. It's a vibrant atmosphere where young people connect and showcase their talents.
This festival is more than just fun. Mayor Cahyadi sees it as a way to revitalize THP Kenjeran and provide a positive outlet for Surabaya's youth. With whispers of a future edition, Surabaya Pestapora is an event to keep on your radar, especially if you're a young person who loves sports, dance, or community spirit.
In Conclusion,Surabaya offers a festive way for you to peek into its soul. So, make sure to add these exciting events to your itinerary for a full experience and great memories that last for a lifetime.
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