Barong Ider Bumi

Barong Ider Bumi is a village-cleaning ritual held annually by residents of Kemiren village, Glagah district, Banyuwangi. The century-old ritual features the parading of a Barong statue, which is believed by locals to be a mythical creature that guards the village. Residents will also participate in cultural performances along the streets of Kemiren village. 

Diaspora Banyuwangi gathering

A gathering of diaspora from Banyuwangi will be held on the 3rd of Syawal (May 17) at the Pendopo Shaba Swagata Blambangan, located in the heart of the city. The annual event is held by the Banyuwangi regency administration to facilitate the gathering of Banyuwangi people who have lived outside the country and with locals. The event will also feature Banyuwangi cuisine and is open to the public. Tourism Minister Arief Yahya is scheduled to attend. 

Read also: Interesting places to visit in Banyuwangi

Seblang Olehsari

The mythical dance called seblang olehsari normally starts on the 3rd or 4th of Syawal (May 17 or 18), or as instructed by Olehsari village elders. The dance lasts for seven consecutive days in the Syawal month and is performed by a virgin in a trance mode. Spectators may participate as the dancer may invite people to dance together. The dance starts every day in the afternoon and finishes in the evening. On the seventh day, the dancer is paraded around the village. 

Puter Kayun tradition

Held to honor village ancestors, locals will ride a horse-drawn carriage from their village in Boyolangu to the local beach. Those who are not transportable by the carriage are free to follow suit with their private cars, trucks or motorbikes. The participants of this trip will enjoy a communal picnic on the beach. (asw)