Jakarta in a festive mood

Jakarta will celebrate its official 477th anniversary on June 22. The date, decided on by the Jakarta administration, refers to the first time in history when the name of Jakarta appears in old documents.

A full month celebrations to mark the anniversary was initiated by Jakarta governor Sutiyoso last Sunday at the small industry complex (PIK) in East Jakarta.

Here are some of the upcoming events organized by the Jakarta administration to enliven the city.

1. June 11-13: The Jakarta International Kite Festival Location: Karnaval beach in the Ancol Dreamland Park, North Jakarta

The festival will feature various activities, including the Indonesian Kite Exhibition, kite bazaar, kite flying show and kite-making competition. There will also be a workshop on kites.

2. June 11-25: Keroncong Singing Competition Location: State Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) on Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat, Central Jakarta.

The elimination stage is slated to take place between June 11 and June 14. The final will be on June 25.

3. June 13-19: Jakarta Anniversary Basketball Tournament 2004 Location: The Jakarta Sports Center in Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta. Five teams will participate in the tournament, including teams from Jakarta's sister cities: Beijing (People's Republic of China), Seoul (South Korea) and Bangkok (Thailand). Two Indonesian teams participating are the Jakarta pre-National Games (PON) team and the national U-24 team.

4. June 16-21 (from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.): Abang-None Pageant for Children and Teenagers Location: Seni beach at the Ancol Dreamland Park in North Jakarta

5. June 22 (from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.): Anniversary Celebration Night Location: The grounds of the Jakarta Hall on Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan, Central Jakarta.

The celebration will feature music from Titi DJ, Ruth Sahanaya, Andre Hehanusa, Warna, Flashback Band, and many others, as well as a performance by illusionist Dedy Cobuzier.