A mesmerizing coastal spectacle where thousands of dancers unite in rhythm, color, and timeless cultural harmony

Banyuwangi is preparing to welcome one of its most anticipated cultural celebrations, the Gandrung Sewu Festival 2025, which will take place from October 23 to 25, 2025, at Boom Marina Beach in East Java. This year, the grand festival adopts the theme “Selendang Sang Gandrung,” portraying the journey and cultural heritage of Gandrung dancers through generations.

The event will bring together about 1,300 dancers and 200 wiyogo, or gamelan musicians, with more than 1,500 artists performing on a spectacular seaside stage. In addition to local performers, 300 dancers from other regions such as Malang Raya, Pasuruan, and Bali will also participate, adding even more color and diversity to this celebration of Indonesian culture.

Alongside the main performance on October 25, the festival will feature Muhibah Budaya on the afternoon of October 24, showcasing various traditional arts from across the archipelago. This annual event is expected to attract notable guests from both Indonesia and abroad, offering visitors an extraordinary opportunity to experience the beauty of traditional art beneath Banyuwangi’s evening sky.

Since its first appearance in 2012, Gandrung Sewu has become an important part of the Banyuwangi Festival and has grown into a true cultural icon of the region. In 2024, more than 1,350 dancers filled the stage, showing the community’s strong passion for preserving the unique art form of Blambangan.

The Gandrung dance itself represents “love” and “joy.” In the past, it was performed as an expression of gratitude for abundant harvests and life’s blessings. Today, it stands as a symbol of love for culture and unity among people. Through the elegant movements of the dancers and the rhythmic motion of colorful scarves, the performance tells a story of heritage, continuity, and the timeless strength of tradition.

More than just a performance, the Gandrung Sewu Festival reflects the collaboration between local artists and the government in promoting cultural values. With the Bali Strait as its scenic backdrop, the sound of gamelan resonating through the air, and thousands of dancers moving in harmony, the festival leaves a lasting impression on everyone who witnesses it.

Beyond the main performance, visitors can explore local MSME bazaars, taste Banyuwangi’s traditional dishes, and enjoy cultural exhibitions that enliven the celebration. Through the grace of its dance and the richness of its heritage, Gandrung Sewu 2025 continues to strengthen Banyuwangi’s identity as a world-class cultural destination and inspire pride in Indonesia’s enduring traditions.

photo source: eventdaerah.kemenparekraf.go.id/detail-event/festival-gandrung-sewu-3

#Gandrung Sewu Festival #Banyuwangi cultural festival #Indonesian traditional dance #Selendang Sang Gandrung #Boom Marina Beach event #East Java tourism #Gandrung dancers #Banyuwangi tourism #cultural heritage Indonesia #gamelan performance #Indonesian art festival #coastal dance performance #Banyuwangi events 2025 #Indonesian culture celebration #traditional music and dance #Banyuwangi attractions #Gandrung Sewu 2025 #cultural travel Indonesia #festival of love and joy #Indonesian coastal festival #media #article #rsvp clique #rc