Batik, one of Indonesia’s most iconic cultural treasures, continues to captivate the world with its unique blend of art and craftsmanship. Honoring its importance, National Batik Day is celebrated every October 2, and this year’s event was marked by the vibrant “Batik District” festival held across three historic sites: Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko Temple Tourism Parks.
The festival offered a rich cultural experience, engaging both locals and tourists in the celebration of batik as a symbol of Indonesia’s heritage. Hetty Herawati, the Commercial Director of Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko Temple Tourism Parks (TWC), highlighted the significance of the event: “Batik District is an activation event, inviting communities and tourists to celebrate batik as a cultural heritage.”
The Tempo report detailed several activities that made this celebration unique. Events like “Sareng-Sareng mBatik” invited visitors to actively participate in batik-making, allowing them to contribute to long stretches of batik cloth — 15 meters at Prambanan, 8 meters at Borobudur, and 4 meters at Ratu Boko. These batik pieces were inspired by the intricate carvings and ornamentation found on each of the temples.
Adding to the celebration, the National Batik Day at Prambanan featured the Catwalk Nusantara. Dozens of models, including Dimas Diajeng Yogyakarta City, showcased batik fashion in the shadow of the majestic Prambanan Temple, offering a stunning backdrop for the event. It was a visual feast that blended fashion and history.
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The Batik District event also brought the Pasar Klithik Batik to life. This market and exhibition space was filled with booths offering batik, traditional textiles, kebaya, and antique local furniture, giving visitors the chance to explore Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and purchase unique, high-quality pieces.
These diverse activities had a broader purpose: to educate younger generations and introduce international tourists to the history, techniques, and cultural significance of batik. The event was designed to offer a deeper understanding of this traditional art form. As Hetty noted, “We aim to preserve and celebrate batik’s legacy, ensuring that its value is passed down to future generations.”
National Batik Day is not just about showcasing a beautiful fabric; it is about recognizing a deep cultural history that continues to shape Indonesia’s identity. Through events like the Batik District, the art of batik remains vibrant, evolving with time while staying rooted in tradition.