Crowds at the 445th Banjarnegara Anniversary Celebration, Attended by 150,000 People

The Banjarnegara Regency government in Central Java has successfully organised a series of celebrations for its 445th anniversary, which took place vibrantly from 2 to 5 April 2026. Although the anniversary falls on 26 February each year, all events were shifted to April due to their coincidence with Ramadan, allowing for more optimal execution and greater community participation. This grand celebration featured three main agendas: the Banjarnegara Culture Carnival (2 April), Banjarnegara Extravaganza (4 April), and Banjarnegara Ngibing Parade (5 April). These events acted as magnets for tourism, culture, and drivers of the local economy. The series of events opened with a cultural procession and parade starting from Banjarnegara’s main terminal to the town square. The procession of the regional emblem banner, rich in historical value, served as a symbolic opener for the celebration. Over the four days, the public was treated to various performances. Public enthusiasm was very high, with thousands of visitors filling every event location, and the cumulative visitor estimate reaching 100,000 to 150,000 people. The anniversary committee chairman, Tursiman, stated that a total of 3,727 participants were involved in the activities, ranging from the Forkopimda, regional government offices, vertical agencies, cultural arts communities, students, to community organisations. The Banjarnegara Tourism and Culture Office assessed that the event had a significant impact on social culture and the economy. This celebration served as a cultural education forum for the younger generation while boosting various aspects. In total, the economic circulation during the 2–5 April 2026 celebration is estimated to reach Rp 21 billion. This multiplier effect was not only felt at the main event centres but also spread to various regions and sectors, from trade, cuisine, transportation, parking services, to the creative economy. Tursiman expressed thanks to all parties who supported and participated in the event. He emphasised that the success of the organisation was strong evidence of collaboration between the government and the community. The Banjarnegara Regency government also extended apologies for any shortcomings during the implementation.