The annual Bali Arts Festival showcases Balinese art and the culture of Indonesia. Lasting for the whole month, it provides visitors with an insight into local customs, traditions and beliefs. A large parade, competitions, culinary demonstrations, a literature contest, crafts fair, painting exhibition, ramatari, gong kebyar, and traditional dance performances—these are just a few events that are held in the framework of the festival that takes place at Taman Werdhi Budaya Arts Centre in Panjer, Denpasar.
The festival usually starts with an opening parade held in front of the Bajra Sandhi monument in Denpasar. It is followed by performances at the Ardha Chandra stage of the Bali Arts Centre. During the following days, the festival continues on many stages at different venues. Musicians and artists from all over Bali and the whole of Indonesia take part.
During the festivities, Werdhi Budaya Art Centre is generously decorated with traditional bamboo and coconut leaf elements and banners. Spectators gather in front of its several open stages and outdoor pavilions. Traditional or contemporary dances are followed by shadow puppetry, music or children competitions.
Bali Arts Festival has been held since the 1980s. It is one of the most important events on the island with hundreds of performers and thousands of spectators.
