Embracing creativity, bridging generations, and offering a meaningful spiritual music experience in a spirit of unity

Gospel International Festival, widely known as GIFest, is a large scale celebration of gospel music that brings together harmony, joy, togetherness, and inspiration. The festival is designed as a shared space for artists, scholars, creative thinkers, experts, and activists who are connected through gospel music and ministry. Through an inclusive approach, GIFest goes beyond musical performances by building a collaborative ecosystem that unites entertainment, education, and spiritual values within one integrated platform.

GIFest 2026 will take place over three days, from January 16 to 18, 2026, at ICE BSD, Indonesia, featuring a vibrant and diverse program of events. The festival will present multiple stages showcasing a wide range of performers, from international musicians and national artists based in the capital to gospel communities from various regions. Each day is thoughtfully curated with a distinct concept and experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the festival in a dynamic and continuous flow.

In terms of performances, GIFest 2026 will involve more than seventy well known gospel musicians, including approximately twenty international artists and fifty local Indonesian performers. Overall, around one thousand singers, musicians, and production crew members will be involved in the festival. The performances are presented through refined contemporary musical arrangements and grand stage designs, creating an engaging and memorable visual and audio experience for audiences.

The festival is also regarded as an important milestone in Indonesia’s music industry. According to GIFest founder Richard Buntario, the event seeks to challenge the perception that gospel music is only intended for certain groups. By embracing the three E concept of entertainment, empowering, and experience, GIFest aims to deliver an open, relevant, and meaningful experience for audiences from all backgrounds. Guided by a spirit of tolerance and togetherness, GIFest is expected to grow into a central hub for Christian gospel music festivals in Indonesia, across Asia, and beyond.

The lineup features prominent national musicians such as Franky Sihombing, Billy Simpson, Andy Ambarita, and Jacqlien Celose, alongside legendary bands including GMB and VOG. International artists such as Ron Kenoly, Hillsong Sydney, Gary Valenciano, and Israel Houghton & New Breed also form part of the program. As a gesture of appreciation, GIFest 2026 will present tributes to legendary Indonesian gospel songwriters, reinforcing the festival’s role as a platform for unity, entertainment, and education on the importance of tolerance in society.

photo source: instagram.com/israelhoughton

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