From food and music festivals by the sea, to cultural and wellness events, here are all the best annual events in Bali to look forward to in 2026.
Don’t be fooled by the small size of Bali – there’s SO much to experience on this little island. We’ve got art, culture, epic restaurants and buzzing Bali nightlife too. And that’s why you’ll want to catch the best annual events in Bali. From cultural ceremonies and rituals, to food and music festivals, as well as summer parties fronted by the biggest names in the business, there’s always something to add to your Bali itinerary.
So, to help you plan your next island party, we’ve rounded up all the best annual events and festivals in Bali for 2026. Save the date for the island’s biggest celebrations we look forward to each year!
Bali’s biggest annual events at a glance:
Cultural & Religious Events: Chinese New Year, Ramadan, Nyepi & Ogoh-Ogoh Parade, Galungan, Kuningan, Indonesian Independence Day, Christmas
Parties & Festivals: Day of the Dead at Motel Mexicola, Summer Soundwave, KU DE TA White Party, Halloween, New Year’s Eve
Food & Culinary Events: Easter, Ubud Food Festival, Bali Meat Park
Arts & Creativity Events: Bali Spirit Festival, Ubud Open Studios, Ubud Village Jazz Festival, Jia CURATED, Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, Bali Kite Festival
Charity events: IGNITE Fundraising Gala
Editor’s Pick Event of 2026
Day of the Dead at Motel Mexicola
Iconic Mexican party with live DJs, costumes and a huge best-dressed prize.
When Motel Mexicola throws a party, you know it’s going to be wild. But Día de los Muertos (AKA the Day of the Dead) is on another level. Every October, the original Seminyak venue and the Canggu venue transform into full-blown fiestas of colour, chaos, and remembrance. Forget Halloween jump scares — this night is about honouring life after death, Mexican style.
Expect tequila-fuelled table-dancing, wow-worthy costumes, a heaving dance floor, live DJs, and Chef Steven Skelly’s special menu inspired by Mexico’s most beloved traditions.
And don’t come half-dressed, because there’s always a Best Dressed cash prize at both venues! Walk-ins are welcome, but we definitely recommend booking a table, because this is one of the biggest nights of the year.
How much: Free entry
When: October 2026
Where: Mexicola Seminyak: Jl Kayu Jati No. 9X & Mexicola Canggu: Jl Pantai Batu Bolong No. 117X.
Annual events in Bali: February 2026
Chinese New Year
Island-wide celebrations with lion dances, lanterns and festive feasts.
Also known as Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year marks the start of the lunar calendar. In 2026, we’re entering the Year of the Horse, a symbol of energy, freedom and adventure, so expect an extra dose of joy (and maybe a few lucky surprises!).
You’ll love how this festivity transforms Bali and makes the island feel so alive. You can catch multiple lion dance performances at shopping malls or even stumble upon drumming troupes at your favourite cafés. Restaurants and hotels join in too, serving up special set menus and Lunar cocktails. It’s truly one of the most vibrant times to visit Bali. Don’t know where to start? Read our full guide to Chinese New Year in Bali.
How much: Free.
When: 17 February 2026
Where: Across Bali
Ramadan
Ramadan is a month of fasting for Muslims, observed as a season of gratitude.
When Ramadan comes around, Bali slows down a little. Muslims across the island fast from sunrise to sunset, then gather to break the fast (iftar) with family and friends. You’ll notice night markets getting busier around dusk, with stalls selling takjil (sweet snacks) and local favourites like fried bananas and coconut desserts.
I always look forward to Ramadan in Bali, the vibe is calm but full of warmth. The food scene totally changes after dark, and even non-Muslim locals and travellers join in the fun. You can learn more about what to expect in our Ramadan in Bali guide.
How much: Free.
When: 17 February – 19 March 2026
Where: Across Bali
Annual events in Bali: March 2026
Nyepi Ogoh Ogoh Parade
Balinese New Year parade of giant paper mâché demons made by the local community in each Bali village.
The crux of the Balinese New Year celebration is a day dedicated to complete silence, AKA Nyepi. On this Day of Silence, the island comes to a standstill with no light, no cars, no noise and no one roaming the streets (yep, no flights coming in or out either!). But the big celebration falls on the day before Nyepi, when each village holds a parade of giant, paper mâché demonic characters (AKA Ogoh Ogoh) through the streets. The parade comes to an end as these giant Ogoh Ogoh are burned in a ceremonial display to banish any evil spirits.
How much: Free.
When: 18 March 2026, from afternoon onwards.
Where: Across Bali
Annual events in Bali: April 2026
Easter
Easter is a celebration of renewal for Christians, symbolising hope and fresh starts.
Easter in Bali means festive egg hunts and family brunches by the beach. I love how the island feels extra cheerful during this weekend, you’ll see pastel decorations everywhere, and hotels often host kids’ activities and live music for the holiday vibe. Whether you’re after a decadent Sunday roast in Canggu or a poolside seafood brunch in Nusa Dua, there’s no better excuse to treat yourself.
How much: Free (or check out all the must-do festivities in our Easter in Bali guide!)
When: 5 April 2026
Where: Across Bali
Bali Spirit Festival
Ubud yoga and wellness gathering with classes, music, dance and global healing arts.
Five days of spiritual nourishment, Bali Spirit Festival is a global event filled with yoga, music and dance, and a chance to meet like-minded free spirits. Located in Ubud, AKA Bali’s yoga capital, the festival holds hundreds of yoga classes and workshops taught by some of the world’s best. It offers a wide range of styles, from Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga and Yin, to Qi Gong, Capoeira and more. Not only that, you’ll find dozens of food vendors to keep you energised throughout the festival, as well as plenty of musical performances, ecstatic dancing and Dharma talks. With over 5,000 people joining each year, it’s without doubt one of the biggest yoga festivals on the island!
How much: TBA
When: 15 to 19 April 2026
Where: TBA
Book A Bali Spirit Festival Pass
Annual events in Bali: May 2026
Ubud Food Festival
Culinary celebration with chef demos, food tours, artisan markets and tastings.
Foodies, you’ll want to add this to your culinary tour. Every year, Ubud Food Festival celebrates the diverse cuisines Bali and Indonesia have to offer. There are panels of innovative chefs and food entrepreneurs, cooking workshops and masterclasses, as well as live demos by the industry’s leading experts. Join the thousands of hungry crowds and enjoy three days’ worth of foodie tours, bites at local warungs and tasters of Ubud’s best restaurants. There’s even an array of artisanal products like coffee, wine, cheese and chocolates to shop and take home.
How much: Free entry.
When: 28 to 31 May 2026.
Where: Taman Kuliner, Jl Raya Sanggingan, Ubud.
Annual events in Bali: June 2026
Ubud Open Studios
Art crawl through Ubud with 60+ local and international artists opening their studios.
From May 5 to 7, 2026, Ubud Open Studios is back for its fifth edition, and it’s your all-access pass into the wildly creative world of Bali’s top artists and makers. Think of it as an art-gallery crawl, because over three days, more than 60 local and international artists will swing open their studio doors to the public. It’s a rare glimpse into their working spaces, and an insight into their creative processes. I’m talking painters, ceramicists, photographers, textile artists, and architects.
The event is brought to us by Elami Productions, the Ubud-based team behind TEDxUbud and The Creative Refresh. All to put the spotlight on Bali’s thriving creative talents!
How much: TBA
When: 5 to 7 June 2026.
Where: All around Ubud.
Galungan & Kuningan
Bali’s most sacred celebration of balance, blessings, and good spirits.
Galungan is one of Bali’s most important religious celebrations, a time when the locals honour the victory of good (dharma) over evil (adharma). It marks the moment when ancestral spirits return to visit their family homes, and offerings are made across the island to welcome them. Ten days later, the festival closes with Kuningan, when the spirits return to the heavens, bringing blessings of prosperity and protection.
If you want to experience something extra special during Galungan, head to Penglipuran Village, one of Bali’s most beautifully preserved traditional villages. It’s especially magical during this time, with rows of penjor lining the pathways and locals welcoming visitors with open arms. Don’t forget to read our full guide to Galungan & Kuningan in Bali.
How much: Free
When: Galungan – 17 June 2026 | Kuningan – 27 June 2026
Where: Across Bali (don’t miss Penglipuran Village for the full experience)
Summer Soundwave
Beach music festival with world-class DJs, live beats and sunset vibes.
Get lost in the electrifying beats of Summer Soundwave at W Bali – Seminyak, the resort’s annual festival that celebrates the island’s hot, summer-kissed days. You’ll want to round up your party squad and bring your dancing shoes, as each year the event hosts a line-up of showstoppers with beats ranging from chilled tunes to hip-hop and EDM. Adding to that is the selection of Woobar’s bites and chilled drinks to keep you fuelled up for the night ahead!
How much: TBA
When: TBA
Where: W Bali – Seminyak, Jl Petitenget, Kerobokan.
Annual events in Bali: July 2026
Bali Kite Festival
Colourful kite-flying competition in Sanur with giant traditional and modern designs.
Bali Kite Festival started off as an agricultural festival to thank the Hindu Gods for an abundant harvest. Now an annual event and competition that attracts international kite-flyers and spectators to Sanur’s Padang Galak Beach, the festival paints the sky with splashes of colour and all different shapes and sizes. It’s a unique celebration that’s not to be missed!
How much: Free.
When: From July to October.
Where: Mertasari Beach and Padang Galak Beach, Sanur.
Bali Meat Park
Barbecue and music festival serving smokey bites, local craft drinks and live rock bands.
Bali Meat Park is the island’s first-ever barbecue and music festival, bringing smoky bites and sizzling tunes to Sanur Beach. Started in 2024, this fiery fest will be back by popular demand, featuring top-notch tenants (from Chupacabras to Queen’s, and Hatten Wines too!) serving up everything from smoky ribs and juicy burgers to flame-grilled skewers and creative barbecue twists. Pair your eats with local drinks, then settle in for live performances from Bali’s hottest rock bands. With the perfect combo of mouthwatering food and great music, Bali Meat Park turns up the heat on the festival scene – come hungry and leave happy… but not before dancing off the feast!
How much: TBA
When: TBA
Where: Sanur
Annual events in Bali: August 2026
Ubud Village Jazz Festival
Jazz music festival with 100+ musicians and food stalls in Ubud.
Having entertained thousands of music lovers since 2013, Ubud Village Jazz Festival is the artistic annual event in Ubud that’s held to empower the local community. Backed by a team of volunteers and musicians, the festival holds 20 performances and 100 musicians across three stages over two days. Each performance showcases the best of Jazz by national and international musicians, as well as new talents and music students. Enjoy the smooth sounds of piano, cello and saxophone as you browse through the food stalls which serve up Ubud’s best culinary offerings.
How much: TBA
When: 7 & 8 August 2026.
Where: Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Jl A. A. Gede Rai, Ubud.
Jia CURATED
Immersive art and design festival with installations, talks, performances and food markets.
Jia CURATED is an immersive festival that celebrates culture, community, live performances, and local and international design. Put together by Indonesia’s top designers, Budiman Ong, Rudi Winata and Yang Yang Hartono, you’ll get the chance to meet the makers, join insightful talks, groove to local bands, and connect with Bali’s creative community. But what’s even better is each year gets bigger and better than before. Think thousands of festival go-ers, food stalls, musical and dance performances, and hundreds of local and international brands!
How much: TBA
When: 13 to 17 August 2026.
Where: Bali Festival Park, Jl Padang Galak No. 3, Kesiman.
KU DE TA White Party
Seminyak’s legendary all-white beachfront party with DJs, live music and epic themes.
Nothing beats the blowouts at KU DE TA, AKA Seminyak’s OG beach club that throws one of the most iconic parties on the island: the annual White Party. Flocked by the most beautiful fashionistas dressed in white, this upscale party hosts world-famous headliners, legendary DJs and producers, as well as wow-worthy entertainment and epic themes that make for an unforgettable evening. This is one for the memory books!
How much: TBA
When: TBA
Where: KU DE TA Beach Club, Jl Kayu Aya No. 9, Seminyak.
Indonesian Independence Day
This day honours the spirit of independence that shaped the nation.
Every year on 17 August, Indonesia celebrates its independence, and Bali joins in with full enthusiasm. Think red-and-white flags on almost every corner, cheerful parades, and community games like panjat pinang (a hilarious climbing contest on greased poles to grab prizes at the top, you have to see it!). Schools, villages, and even beach clubs host their own celebrations, so you’ll feel the festive spirit wherever you go.
How much: Free.
When: 17 August 2026
Where: Across Bali
Annual events in Bali: September 2026
IGNITE Fundraising Gala
Elegant cultural gala supporting education, arts and sustainability in Bali.
Once a year, Green School Foundation opens its doors for a dazzling night that is the IGNITE Fundraising Gala. The gala supports education for sustainability across Indonesia through culture-related themes and traditional performances, paired with sumptuous Balinese cuisine, and spotlights on Balinese artistry. Held inside a bamboo building, this magical night promises to entertain whilst helping the Foundation achieve its goal of creating environmentally-conscious minds.
How much: TBA
When: TBA
Where: Green School Bali, Jl Raya Sibang Kaja, Abiansemal.
Annual events in Bali: October 2026
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival
Global literary festival with panels, performances and cultural tours in Ubud and/or other Indonesia-wide locations.
Each year Ubud Writers & Readers Festival brings in thousands of literary fans to the heart of Bali’s cultural capital. The sister of Ubud Food Festival sets to inspire young minds by holding panel discussions and conversations, as well as literary exploration. This global event is made even more special with Indonesian dance performances, luncheons, galas, late-night comedy shows and guided tours to Ubud’s cultural spots, and more.
How much: One-day passes start from IDR 1,900,000.
When: 21 to 25 October 2026.
Where: Taman Baca Ubud, Ubud.
Book A Ubud Writers & Readers Festival Pass
Halloween
If you’ve never done Halloween in Bali, don’t be fooled into thinking it’ll be low-key. While you won’t find trick-or-treating here, Bali’s best beach clubs, bars and hotels go all in with themed parties, creative cocktails and seriously impressive costume competitions. Canggu and Seminyak tend to lead the charge, but there’s mischief to be found island-wide if you know where to look.
Check out everything you need to know about this spooky event in our Halloween in Bali guide.
When: 31 October 2026
Where: Across Bali
How much: Free entry at some venues, with various ticketed events and parties
Annual events in Bali: December 2026
Christmas
Swap the snow for sand! Christmas in Bali is a celebration of beachfront feasts and island vibes.
If you’ve never spent Christmas in Bali, you’re in for a treat! Resorts go big with buffets, beachside barbecues and live music, while cafés bring out their best decorations and Christmas desserts. You may even spot palm trees wrapped in fairy lights if you’re wandering around certain areas, how cool is that!
Whether you’re celebrating with friends or flying solo, the island has plenty going on during Christmas, but we’ve signed, sealed and wrapped them all up for you in our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Bali guide.
When: 25 December 2026
Where: Across Bali
How much: Free entry for some spots, with various paid events
New Year’s Eve
NYE in Bali is equal parts relaxed and electric; you can go full party or keep it cosy.
There is no place on earth quite like Bali when the clock strikes midnight. The island’s energy shifts into high gear as the coast lights up with a thousand fireworks and the bass drops at iconic beach clubs. If you prefer something low-key, you’ll find plenty of soul-soothing dinners and moonlit coastal walks to reflect on the year gone by. It’s the ultimate “choose your own adventure” night, where the dress code ranges from sequins to sarongs.
Wondering where to be when the countdown starts? We’ve rounded up the hottest spots in our New Year’s Eve in Bali guide.
When: 31 December 2026
Where: Across Bali
How much: Various ticketed events and dinner packages
Did I miss any? Send us a DM on Instagram or email me on louise@thehoneycombers.com to share your favourites!
FAQs on going to festivals in Bali
When is the best time to visit Bali for festivals?
The festival calendar in Bali runs year-round, but the busiest months are March (Nyepi - Bali's day of silence), June to August (arts, music festivals and beach parties), and October to November (literary and cultural festivals).
Are there music festivals in Bali?
Yes, Bali hosts several international music festivals with top DJs and bands, typically happening at beach clubs.
What is the Bali Spirit Festival?
The Bali Spirit Festival in Ubud is a yoga, dance, wellness, and music festival held annually (usually in May or June). It combines yoga workshops, healing sessions, global music concerts, and spiritual talks. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a holistic, transformative experience while connecting with an international wellness community.
Do I need tickets for Bali festivals?
In general, yes. Music, arts and food festivals usually charge an entry fee plus purchases from tenants. Local cultural events like the kite festival are often free.
What should I wear to a festival in Bali?
For outdoors festivals, wear casual clothing and comfortable footwear. Events like gala dinners and themed parties may follow a dress code.