Banyuwangi once again turned its rich history into a spectacular cultural celebration that captured international attention. The 2026 edition of the Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival (BEC) not only featured hundreds of local performers but also welcomed dozens of foreign participants who joined the parade, making this year’s event even more vibrant and globally connected.
Held in Banyuwangi, East Java, on Saturday, July 18, 2026, the carnival carried the theme “Perang Bayu: The Great War of Blambangan.” The theme brought to life the historic struggle of the Blambangan people against Dutch colonial rule during the 18th century through elaborate costumes and artistic performances.
One of the event’s highlights was the participation of dozens of foreign nationals from the United Kingdom, Belgium, the United States, Sweden, several African countries, and other nations. Wearing ethnic costumes inspired by the story of the Bayu War, they marched alongside hundreds of Indonesian performers throughout the celebration.
The parade covered an approximately two-kilometer route, beginning at Taman Blambangan and ending along Ahmad Yani Street. Throughout the procession, many international participants expressed admiration for Banyuwangi’s cultural heritage. They were impressed by the symbolism woven into every costume, as well as the hospitality of local residents and the strong spirit of cooperation they experienced during both the preparation and execution of the carnival.
For Jerome from Belgium, the event made his first visit to Indonesia especially memorable.
“I am very excited. This is my first time in Indonesia, my first time in Banyuwangi, and it happens to coincide with the BEC event. I feel truly honored to be part of this major celebration for the people of Banyuwangi,” he said.
Murad, a 21-year-old participant from Pakistan, shared similar feelings. He described his involvement in BEC 2026 as an unforgettable experience that would stay with him long after returning home.
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Melissa Curtis from the United Kingdom was equally fascinated after learning the meaning behind the traditional costume she wore during the parade.
“Amazing experience. I was surprised to learn that the costume I’m wearing carries such profound philosophical meaning,” Curtis said.
The enthusiasm extended well beyond the performers. Thousands of spectators lined the nearly two-kilometer parade route around Taman Blambangan to witness the cultural spectacle.
Although the carnival officially began at 1:00 p.m. Western Indonesia Time (WIB), visitors had started arriving early in the morning to secure the best viewing spots for the event, which marked its 14th edition this year.
The carnival also continued to attract international tourists eager to experience Indonesia’s cultural traditions firsthand.
Among them was Cynthia from the Netherlands, who praised both the creativity of the participants and the historical message presented throughout the performances.
“Amazing. I truly admire the magnificent costumes. What impressed me the most is the historical story presented throughout the performance. Everything is beautiful. I’m also happy because the people here are so friendly. I will definitely come back someday,” Cynthia said.
Now in its 14th year, the Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival continues to evolve by presenting local culture through innovative performances that appeal to audiences from around the world.
By choosing Perang Bayu as this year’s central theme, the festival not only celebrated Banyuwangi’s artistic creativity but also introduced an important chapter of Indonesian history to both domestic and international visitors. The combination of cultural storytelling, elaborate costume design, and growing global participation has further strengthened BEC’s reputation as one of Indonesia’s leading cultural tourism events.
