Independence day celebration

17 August 2014

The most solemn ceremony is the flag hoisting at the National Palace, televised live. Full of pomp and circumstance and conducted basically the same way each year, it is a spectacle of the greatest respect and honor for the flag and the Republic. The ceremonies are led by the President and Vice President, and attended by the cabinet, military brass, family members of the current and preceding president, diplomatic corps and honored guests. 

High School students from throughout the archipelago are chosen for their marching skills and put on a show of intricate steps and turns to hoist the flag. The military is out with all its brass in high shine, standing smartly at attention in their dress uniforms.

While the solemn ceremonies are taking place, neighborhoods gear up for fun and games for the kids. Krupuk (shrimp chips) eating contests, bike decorating, games, races and lots of fun fill the day. The women are busy in cooking contests to see who can make the biggest krupuk or the most delicious nasi tumpeng.

One of the most popular games is the Panjat Pinang. An Areca palm trunk is erected in a public area and well greased with a mixture of clay and oil. At the top are hung various prizes like bikes and TVs. Whoever makes it to the top wins the prize. Needless to say there are a lot of slippery, muddy kids and grownups alike climbing over each other and struggling to reach the goal. A good time is had by all, especially the crowd watching the gaiety.

Mini Glossary

Dirgahayu RI	Long live Indonesia!
Kerja bakti	Volunteer work conducted for the good of the community
Krupuk	Shrimp chips
Monas	Area surrounding Monumen Nasional (National Monument), called “Monas” or Merdeka Square.
Nasi tumpeng	Cone of yellow rice, with various dishes, served at ceremonies
Panjat Pinang	Game commonly held on Indonesian Independence Day
RT	Neighborhood head, neighborhood unit - Rukun Tetangga