GWK CULTURAL PARK PRESENTS PENJOR FESTIVAL 2026, A SPACE FOR COLLABORATION AND CULTURAL CELEBRATION WITH THE COMMUNITY

Badung, October 19, 2026. As a cultural tourism destination committed to preserving and introducing the richness of Balinese traditions, GWK Cultural Park is once again presenting the Penjor Festival 2026 on November 5–8, 2026, at the Lotus Pond area of GWK Cultural Park. Entering its fourth year since its inception in 2023, the festival carries the theme “A Feast of Taste in the Wrap of Art and Culture” by presenting a blend of tradition, art, culinary, music, and local creativity. This year, visitors can enjoy a series of activities in the Lotus Pond area for free without having to purchase a GWK Cultural Park entrance ticket. Meanwhile, access to other areas, including the Festival Park and the GWK Statue, remains subject to the applicable entrance ticket provisions.

Rows of penjor (traditional bamboo poles) will adorn the Lotus Pond area during the 2026 Penjor Festival, creating a unique Balinese atmosphere associated with the Galungan celebrations. The presence of penjor is not only a decorative element that beautifies the festival area, but also a form of appreciation for tradition and an effort to preserve Bali's cultural heritage. This spirit of preservation is also realized through the Mini Penjor Competition, supported by the Badung Regency Creative Economy (Ekraf) and the Badung Regency Government. This competition provides a space for the community to express their creativity and introduce the penjor tradition to the next generation. Furthermore, the Penjor Workshop provides an opportunity for visitors to learn more about the penjor-making process and understand its cultural values.

The 2026 Penjor Festival also features a bazaar that connects visitors with local MSMEs through a variety of culinary products, decorations, handicrafts, and other creative products. The presence of this bazaar provides an opportunity for the public to learn more about local works and products, while also providing inspiration for decorations and equipment needed to celebrate Galungan Day. In addition to the bazaar, various arts and cultural activities also enliven the festival, including the LPM Desa Ungasan dance competition that brings together participants from various banjar (traditional villages). The festival stage will also be filled with performances by music communities and schools, such as Joyful Music Bali, Debeat Music Course, Cressendo and the Dana Swara Arts Community. Visitors can also directly participate in various interactive activities, from learning Balinese script, writing on palm leaves, to participating in batik workshops.

"For the Balinese, the penjor is not just a decoration, but part of a tradition rich with meaning. This tall bamboo pole decorated with young coconut leaves and agricultural produce symbolizes gratitude, the victory of dharma over adharma, and represents Mount Agung and Naga Basuki. Through the 2026 Penjor Festival, we want to provide a space for the public to learn about, appreciate, and participate in preserving these cultural values. As a cultural park, GWK Cultural Park hopes that this festival will not only be a celebration of Balinese arts and traditions, but also a collaborative platform that will have a positive impact on local businesses, communities, and artists, while also encouraging economic growth and community creativity," said Ch. Rossie Andriani, Director of Operations at GWK Cultural Park.

The festival atmosphere will be even more lively with the presence of several Balinese musicians ready to entertain visitors, including Tika Pagraky, Nanoe Biroe, Ary Kencana with Neli Ambarawati, and Leeyonk Sinatra. The combination of musical performances, cultural activities, a bazaar, and interactive activities is expected to make the 2026 Penjor Festival a gathering place for the community to celebrate traditions and enjoy local creativity in an inclusive and collaborative atmosphere.

GWK Cultural Park invites businesses, communities, and interested parties to participate in the 2026 Penjor Festival. For more information on tenant participation, collaborations, and the Mini Penjor Competition, please contact the GWK Event team at 0813-2575-1994. You can also find the latest information on the festival and schedule of activities on Instagram at @gwkevent.

About GWK

GWK Cultural Park is a cultural tourism destination in Ungasan, Badung Regency, Bali, offering a blend of art, culture, entertainment, and recreation. In addition to daily Balinese arts and cultural performances, GWK Cultural Park also serves as a venue for a variety of events, from music concerts and festivals to community activities, corporate meetings, and national and international events.

As part of its commitment to celebrating the richness of local culture and creativity, GWK Cultural Park presents four annual events, namely the Ogoh-Ogoh Festival which highlights traditions leading up to Nyepi Day, the People's Party which enlivens the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia, the Penjor Festival to welcome Galungan Day, and the GWK Bali Countdown which welcomes the new year through entertainment and performances.

For further information, please contact:
Public Relations Department – GWK Cultural Park
Telephone: (0361) – 700808 ext.8109
Email: info@gwkbali.com