When it comes to honouring Indonesia’s cultural heritage and customs, this local luxury hospitality brand never misses a beat to show its ardour. As the Nusantara celebrates its 79th Independence Day this year, Padma Hotels gears up to join the red-white festivity with Pesta Rakyat Padma, which will be held across its five properties.
It has been a long-time tradition for Indonesians to revel in fun traditional games and relish in each of their region’s delicacies during Independence Day, widely known as Tujuh-Belasan. Drawing from this time-honoured spirit, guests and visitors of Padma Hotels are invited to join a plethora of nostalgic games and indulge in special culinary offerings during their stays at one of its properties.
Padma Resort Legian
The national flag of Indonesia is raised early at Padma Resort Legian. On 14 August, the verdant establishment will assemble plenty of celebratory events that evoke nostalgia in its domestic guests and leave international guests wanting to know more about Indonesia.
Pesta Rakyat Padma at the resort begins with Jamu Tasting, reviving the traditional herbal drink to the present day. The buffet dinner is where guests can graze from station to station to discover Indonesian and Balinese cuisines. For some hearty fun, guests are encouraged to partake in the Independence Day games such as the Penjor (Balinese decorative bamboo pole) Making competition.
Padma Resort Ubud
The Ubud haven celebrates Independence Day a day early on 16 August. At the blooming Wedding Lawn, various games are set to be held, from the classic cracker-eating contest and spoon marble race to the freshly introduced games such as cocktail competition and snail walk, where contestants are encased in sacks up to their necks and wear helmets for protection as they race against one another.
The culinary offerings during this event are not to be missed. Renowned for its rich and decadent flavours, Indonesian snacks and desserts are gracing the resort with favourites such as Kue Pukis, Bakso Cilok, Es Lilin, Es Cincau Gula Aren, and more. The arts and crafts stalls offer engaging activities such as silver making, wood carving, and painting. Heightening the occasion is an Indonesian music performance.
Padma Hotel Bandung
Celebrating Independence Day at Padma Hotel Bandung means indulging in competitive traditional games and Padma Hotel Bandung’s signature Indonesian treats while basking in the hilly air. On Independence Day, the hotel hoists the red and white flags and commences a series of games for guests to participate. Guests of all ages may vie for victories in light-hearted games such as spoon marble race, stilts race, pencil in a bottle, and balloon dance.
Afterwards, steal some time to enjoy signature treats such as Tahu Susu, Pisang Goreng, Bajigur, and more to find at the food stalls. Living up to its name, Pesta Rakyat Padma welcomes local businesses to the UMKM corner, offering guests a chance to explore traditional Indonesian toys and batik. Otherwise, immerse in the local culture by joining an interactive angklung performance.
Padma Hotel Semarang
This Semarang’s urban retreat believes that Independence Day should be celebrated longer. Running for two days on 17 and 18 August, the Independence Day celebrations occur at the hotel’s newly unveiled waterpark. Join the fun by competing in traditional Tujuh-Belasan funfair games such as cracker-eating contests, clog races, sack races, and many more.
Inspired by the Javanese culture and traditions, the iconic angkringan (Javanese street-food stalls) will present snacks commonly found in it. Savour the staples such as penyetan and gorengan (assorted fritters), Siomay and Batagor, the herb-filled jamu and the all-time favourite ginger drink, Wedang Ronde. Make time for a nostalgic trip down memory lane by watching films under the stars at the hotel’s layar tancap (open-air cinema).
Resinda Hotel Karawang
At Resinda Hotel Karawang, the celebration is steeped in traditional culinary excellence, propelling the region’s specialities. Head to The Oryza Restaurant during breakfast and find a buffet spread comprising Kerak Telor, Batagor, Seblak Coet, Kue Dongkal, and Surabi Karawang. Complement the local treats with cups of Bandrek or Bajigur to further immerse in the locality.
The Independence Day celebration is incomplete without some fun games to participate in. Excitements are sparking at Resinda Oasis Park, where games such as cracker-eating contest, spoon marble race, rubber band relay race, pencil in a bottle, and more games take place.
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