Celebrating 11 Years, Cap Go Meh 2026 'Little Singkawang' Rich in Messages of Diversity

Cap Go Meh, as the peak celebration occurring 15 days after the Lunar New Year, marks the closing of the Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinese Indonesian culture. In Indonesia, this festival serves as a stage for cultural acculturation, such as in Singkawang with Tatung performances, or in Bogor and Jakarta with cultural festivals, symbolising togetherness and gratitude. In Jakarta, for example, this year TM Seasons City is hosting Cap Go Meh, under the banner Little Singkawang. Entering its 11th year, the event has become one of the annual cultural agendas awaited by residents of Jakarta and its surrounding areas. Carrying the consistent concept since last year, Little Singkawang again presents the distinct atmosphere of Cap Go Meh as observed in Singkawang, rich in tradition and cultural values. The programme features Tatung performances as the main icon, cross-ethnic cultural parades representing a Nusantara-wide diversity, and authentic Chinese culinary offerings. The celebration is not merely a spectacle but a space for cultural exchange that strengthens the sense of togetherness among Jakarta’s residents. This year is special as it unfolds in a meaningful moment; in the same month, Indonesians celebrate Lunar New Year, Cap Go Meh, and prepare for the holy month of Ramadan. This spirit of unity aligns with the tagline of Jakarta’s government for the year, Harmoni Nusantara. Center Director of TM Seasons City, Mualim Wijoyo, said Cap Go Meh 2026 is not merely an entertainment programme but a tangible manifestation of the shopping centre’s commitment to nurturing diversity and boosting cultural tourism. “Cap Go Meh this year has a very strong meaning because it arrives in the same month as Lunar New Year and Ramadan. It is a tangible symbol of Harmoni Nusantara, meaning diversity is not only celebrated but also embraced together. We want to be an inclusive space for cultural exchange for all communities,” said Mualim, in Jakarta, Sunday (8 March 2026). He added that the 11-year continuity demonstrates TM Seasons City’s commitment to supporting the preservation of local culture and strengthening Jakarta’s identity as a multicultural city. Chair of the Organising Committee, T J Jollyman, explained that the Little Singkawang concept will be retained due to very positive public response. “We are bringing back authentic Tatung performances, a culture parade involving various communities, and authentic Chinese culinary offerings that form the main attraction. Our hope is that visitors don’t just watch the performances but also feel the atmosphere of the culture,” he said. Secretary-General of the Committee, Yupiter, added that this year they are involving collaboration among various cultural communities and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). “We want Cap Go Meh at TM Seasons City to be a space for collaboration, not just a ceremonial event. Community involvement and local business participation are key to creating a vibrant and meaningful celebration,” he said. He hopes that the series of festive and meaningful events at Cap Go Meh 2026 at TM Seasons City will become a symbol of unity in diversity and strengthen Jakarta’s position as a city that upholds the values of tolerance and culture. Tito Karnavian attended the Lunar New Year and Cap Go Meh 2026 celebrations in Singkawang. He praised the spirit of tolerance and togetherness among communities across ethnic and religious lines. Cap Go Meh 2026 falls on 3 March. Read the complete history, origin from the Han Dynasty, and the unique acculturated traditions in Indonesia here. Ali ibn Abi Talib once said that however diverse people are, they are only divided into two: brothers in faith and/or brothers in humanity.