The 80th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia will be marked with a series of official and public events across the country. Jakarta, as the capital, will host the main ceremony at the Merdeka Palace, while surrounding areas will present cultural, musical, and community activities throughout August.
Independence Day Celebration in Indonesia: Jakarta and Surrounding Areas
Deputy Minister of State Secretary (Wamenesneg) Juri Ardiantoro announced that at exactly 00:00 WIB on 17 August 2025, President Prabowo Subianto will lead a national pilgrimage and solemn reflection at the National Heroes’ Cemetery in Kalibata.
“Across Indonesia, solemn reflection ceremonies will also be held at local Heroes’ Cemeteries in provinces and regencies/cities,” Juri stated in his official announcement on Tuesday, 12 August 2025.
Celebrate Independence Day at the Merdeka Palace
The Proclamation Moment Commemoration Ceremony will take place at the Merdeka Palace on the morning of 17 August 2025, with President Prabowo Subianto serving as Ceremony Inspector.
The day will begin with a flag procession and the reading of the Proclamation Text, starting from the National Monument (Monas) and travelling to the Merdeka Palace in a golden carriage escorted by a cavalry unit. The procession will commence at 8:00 AM, followed by the ceremonial flag raising.
In the afternoon, a flag-lowering ceremony will be held. These events aim to commemorate the historic moment of 17 August 1945. Similar ceremonies will take place simultaneously in various regions, including schools, government offices, and local neighbourhoods.
Independence Day Celebration: Cultural and Community Activities in Jakarta
R-I Fest at JIExpo Kemayoran
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Ruang Indonesia Fest (R-I Fest) returns for its fourth edition from 15–17 August 2025 at the West Car Park of JIExpo Kemayoran, Jakarta. With the theme Rasa Indonesia, the festival will combine music, art, cuisine, culture, and community competitions.
The line-up includes national and local musicians such as Nadin Amizah, The Changcuters, Tulus, Hindia, Sal Priadi, The Adams, and Cokelat. There will also be a Nusantara culinary bazaar, art installations, traditional dance performances, a kebaya festival, and 17th-anniversary competitions. Tickets start at Rp80,000 for a three-day pass, with VIP and group promotions available.
Pesta Rakyat at Monas
For those unable to attend the Palace ceremony, the People’s Festival at Monas will feature competitions, entertainment stages, free food from SMEs, and an evening fireworks display.
The festivities will also include the Independence Day Carnival on the evening of 17 August, featuring decorated vehicles from ministries, agencies, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), state-owned enterprises (BUMN), and other institutions. The carnival route will begin at Monas, continuing along Jalan Thamrin to Sudirman.
Animal Parade at Taman Safari Indonesia Cisarua
Taman Safari Indonesia Cisarua in Bogor Regency, West Java, will hold The Forest Carnival on 16–17 August 2025. This educational and entertainment parade will feature animal attractions, music, and visual performances, with activities starting from parking areas A, B, C, D, and F.
Highlights include the Multicultural Orchestra, combining national anthems, traditional Nusantara music, and pop; the Wild West cowboy show; and a Jungle Fire Dance. Educational animal sessions will feature Birds of Prey, Various Animals, and Sea Lion presentations.
Kota Tua Jakarta
Kota Tua Jakarta will host the Jakarta Light Festival from 15–17 August 2025, followed by the Merdeka di Kota Tua event on 17 August. The celebration will feature competitions, cultural attractions, and live performances.
Pesta Rakyat at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
From 16–18 August 2025, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah will host the People’s Festival, including performances by NdarBoy, cultural parades, and independence-themed competitions.
At Jakarta Aquarium in Soho Mall, West Jakarta, visitors can watch a special underwater show on 17 August featuring the first mermaid to perform traditional Indonesian dances, underwater island displays, and traditional game competitions.
Jumbo Concert in Ancol
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To celebrate the success of the animated film Jumbo, the Jumbo Concert: The Magic of Music and Our Stories will be held on Sunday, 17 August 2025, at Beach City International Stadium, Ancol.
The event, produced by Visinema Studios and Antara Suara, will feature music directed by Laleilmanino, including rearranged children’s songs and the original soundtrack from Jumbo. Performers include Prince Poetiray, Quinn Salman, Ariel NOAH, BCL, RAN, Maliq & D’Essentials, Aci Resti, and the Kids Ensemble. Tickets start from Rp250,000.
Where to Celebrate the 80th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence Day
The Independence Day of Indonesia is a moment to honour the spirit of unity and the legacy of every hero who fought for freedom. Across Jakarta and beyond, participants join in various activities, from cultural parades to the iconic tug of war, all held under the proud display of the red and white flag. These events reflect not only joy and festivity but also the shared commitment to remembering the nation’s struggle for independence.
Through each performance, competition, and community gathering, the Independence Day celebration becomes a living reminder of resilience and solidarity. The diverse activities encourage every participant to carry forward the spirit of those who came before, ensuring that the sacrifices of every hero continue to inspire future generations.
