Jakarta Lunar New Year celebrations boost spending by US$533 million
The Lunar New Year celebrations generated Rp9 trillion in economic circulation in Jakarta, Karno told reporters in the capital, citing preliminary government estimates.
The provincial administration now expects spending during Ramadan and the run-up to Eid al-Fitr to surpass Rp20 trillion (US$1.2 billion). This year, the Hindu Day of Silence, Nyepi, falls on 8 March, creating a dense holiday calendar that officials believe will further stimulate retail and tourism activity.
Jakarta staged a five-day Lunar New Year Festival at the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle from 13 to 17 February 2026, transforming the city’s main commercial artery into a showcase of cultural attractions.
Highlights included 3D lantern installations depicting the 12 Chinese zodiac signs, a lantern parade, an LED “Pagoda of Harmony Light,” appearances by the God of Fortune Cai Sen Ye, dragon and lion dances, and laser performances designed to draw visitors and boost foot traffic for surrounding businesses.
To expand the festive impact, the administration also organised a citywide decoration competition involving 98 buildings. The contest, which ran through 17 February, aimed to spread celebrations beyond traditional Chinatown areas into office towers, malls and mixed-use developments.
Additional events included the Jakarta Chinatown Festival at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah from 15 to 17 February, Harmoni Jakarta at Blok M Hub, and a national Lunar New Year celebration featuring video mapping at the National Monument complex.
A special edition of the Jakarta Light Festival was staged in the Kota Tua heritage district on 16 and 17 February.
The administration also hosted the Jakarta Temple Festival, coordinating celebrations across temples citywide, with festivities set to culminate in Cap Go Meh on 3 March in Glodok Chinatown.
On Tuesday evening, officials marked a symbolic transition to Ramadan 1447 Hijri at the Hotel Indonesia circle, blending Islamic-themed cultural performances with Lunar New Year motifs to emphasise Jakarta’s religious diversity.