5 Unconventional Places to Celebrate Indonesia’s Independence Day

Every year on August 17, Indonesians mark Independence Day with heartfelt pride. Across the country, communities come together for flag-raising ceremonies and lively neighborhood games, whether in front of schools, at office courtyards, or in the town square.

But who says the celebration has to stay traditional? In recent years, more and more people have taken the ceremony to unexpected places, turning it into not just a patriotic tribute, but also a one-of-a-kind experience.

From mountain peaks to deep beneath the ocean, these spots offer a fresh way to honor the red-and-white flag while soaking in Indonesia’s natural beauty. Here are five memorable locations where the August 17 ceremony has been held.

1. Mountain Summit

For those with both stamina and spirit, celebrating Independence Day at the top of a mountain is the ultimate show of national pride.

Imagine reaching the summit after a grueling climb, then raising the red-and-white flag high against the clouds as “Indonesia Raya” echoes through the crisp mountain air.

Mount Semeru in East Java, Indonesia’s highest peak, is a favorite, drawing thousands of hikers each year to the Mahameru summit on August 17.

Other popular spots include Mount Rinjani in Lombok and Mount Prau in the Dieng highlands, each offering breathtaking scenery to match the moment.

2. Under the Sea

Who says the flag ceremony has to be on land? In several coastal regions, divers don full gear, descend into the blue, and raise the red-and-white flag underwater. Singing the national anthem while surrounded by marine life.

It’s a symbolic salute to Indonesia’s rich seas and a thrilling way to promote the country’s stunning dive destinations.

Bunaken Marine Park in North Sulawesi, the beaches of Wakatobi, and the Thousand Islands off Jakarta are among the most famous places to witness this aquatic tradition.

3. Inside a Cave

A cave might seem like an unlikely stage for a patriotic event, but on August 17, it can become a setting filled with quiet reflection and deep symbolism.

Take Goa Pindul in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, for example, where local communities and outdoor groups have held flag ceremonies deep inside its shadowy chambers.

The solemn atmosphere, lit only by lamps and the glow of the flag, makes for an unforgettable and almost sacred experience.

4. Sea of Sand

Mount Bromo is best known for its legendary sunrises, but it has also been the backdrop for some truly unique Independence Day ceremonies. With the vast sand plain and Mount Batok in the background, the flag-raising here feels both powerful and serene.

Visitors and nature enthusiasts from across the country often gather at Bromo on August 17, blending patriotism with the awe of Indonesia’s landscapes.

5. Rivers and Lakes

Sometimes, the celebration floats, quite literally. At Lake Toba in North Sumatra, communities have held the flag ceremony on boats gathered in the middle of the lake.

In Magelang, Central Java, locals celebrated aboard bamboo rafts on the Progo River. Similar scenes have taken place at the Jenggalu River estuary in Bengkulu and along the Kapuas River in Pontianak.

Explore Indonesia and Celebrate with TRAC

Ready to experience one of these unique Independence Day celebrations for yourself? Whether you’re heading to Mount Bromo, Lake Toba, or Goa Pindul, TRAC makes the journey easier and more comfortable.

With car rentals from TRAC, exploring various places becomes easier and more efficient. If you want to travel with a large group, TRAC's tourist bus rental service can also be a solution.

For car rental services, there are two options to choose from according to your needs: car rental self-drive or with a driver.

However, if you need a larger fleet for a group, TRAC's tourist buses are also available in various types and sizes, ranging from small buses, medium buses, large buses, to premium buses. Their capacity ranges from 11 to 59 passengers.  

TRAC's services are suitable for various occasions, from attending unique ceremonies, attending concerts and community events, to simply enjoying a relaxed road trip with family.

Book TRAC services easily directly on the TRAC website homepage or the TRACtoGo app. Download the app on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

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