When is the Ogoh-ogoh Festival 2026? Schedule and Event Information in Bali
Ogoh-ogoh is a significant cultural tradition preceding Nyepi Day, the sacred Hindu Day of Silence, typically held on the evening before Nyepi. This tradition is particularly prominent in Bali, though it is also celebrated in other regions with Hindu communities.
As a result, many residents and visitors are seeking information about when the 2026 ogoh-ogoh celebration will be held and where the festival takes place. Here is the complete information.
The Ogoh-ogoh Tradition Before Nyepi
According to information from the Buleleng Regency Education, Youth and Sports Office and the Buleleng Regency Culture Office, ogoh-ogoh are sculptural artworks shaped like giant creatures that represent bhuta kala, or negative forces in Hindu teachings. These sculptures are typically made from lightweight materials such as bamboo and paper, then paraded around the village.
The ogoh-ogoh tradition is held on the evening of pengerupukan, the day before Nyepi Day. In 2026, pengerupukan falls on 18 March 2026, as Nyepi Day is commemorated on 19 March 2026. On that evening, the ogoh-ogoh are paraded as a symbol of purification of nature and humanity from negative elements before entering the sacred Nyepi Day, which is observed in a state of silence.
Festival Ogoh-Ogoh 2026 in Bali
Beyond village or banjar-level ogoh-ogoh parades, several festival events are held to celebrate the occasion. One such event is the Festival Ogoh-Ogoh 2026 at GWK Cultural Park.
Based on information from the official GWK Bali account, this festival carries the theme “Celebrating The Awakening of The Giants” and will be held on 22 March 2026. The following are the event details:
Event Name: Festival Ogoh-Ogoh
Theme: Celebrating The Awakening of The Giants
Date: 22 March 2026
Location: GWK Cultural Park
Event Schedule:
Ogoh-Ogoh Parade
Competition and Crafting Activities
My Melali GWK Market
Members of the public and tourists who wish to witness the ogoh-ogoh celebration or attend the Festival Ogoh-Ogoh 2026 in Bali are urged to monitor the official schedule and regulations from the organisers to ensure the events run smoothly and orderly.