Slidetober Fest is back, bringing together the creative communities that have made Deus Ex Machina an icon in Bali's surf and motorcycle scene. Running from 23–25 October 2026, the festival blends surfing, custom motorcycles, contemporary art, live music and Balinese culture into one immersive weekend of events across Canggu and Bali's west coast.

Whether you're a surfer, rider, artist or simply looking for one of the best Bali events in October 2026, Slidetober Fest offers an experience that goes well beyond competition.

What Is Slidetober Fest 2026?

Created by Deus Ex Machina, Slidetober Fest celebrates the intersection of surf, motorcycles, music, art and community that has defined the brand's culture in Bali for years. Rather than focusing purely on competition, the festival embraces creativity, participation and connection through a packed three-day program featuring surf contests, motorcycle rallies, art installations, performances and community gatherings.

This year's edition introduces new artistic collaborations, immersive exhibitions, live music performances and interactive experiences while retaining fan-favourite events like the Surf Competition, Dress-Up Drag Race and Swank Rally.

Slidetober Fest 2026: What to Expect

Day 1: Surf, Culture and Community

The festival opens at Pererenan Beach with four-person surf heats, followed by a 30-minute final, while DJs and MCs keep the energy going along the shoreline.

As the sun sets, the focus shifts to Deus Temple for an evening centred around Bali's creative community. Expect a community dinner curated by FORK, contemporary instrumental performances inspired by Balinese culture, and the Surf, Culture & Community talk featuring surfers, creatives and sustainability advocates exploring how surfing influences lifestyle, fashion, music and community.

Day 2: Dress-Up Drag Race, Art and Live Music

Saturday brings one of the festival's most entertaining traditions — the Dress-Up Beach Drag Race at Pasut Beach.

Participants compete in elaborate costumes while spectators enjoy live commentary, People's Choice voting, photo booths and the legendary Hall of Shame showcasing unforgettable moments from previous years.

Back at Deus Temple, the evening comes alive with:

• Andre Yoga's solo exhibition, showcasing the artist behind this year's Slidetoberfest artwork.

• Live vinyl DJs

• Interactive live tote bag printing

• Projection mapping installations

• Community bike rides

• Live performances from some of Bali's independent music acts

It's a celebration of creativity just as much as motorcycle culture.

Day 3: Swank Rally and Motorcycle Culture

The weekend's motorcycle action continues with the iconic Deus Swank Rally at Pantai Panggung Tibah, near Ciputra Beach Resort. Expert and Beginner riders compete across FFA 4T and FFA 2T classes, bringing vintage-inspired motorcycle racing to the black sand.

The rally retains its signature format while adding enhanced spectator experiences, including live DJs, food trucks, shaded viewing areas and custom trophies celebrating the event's champions.

Visitors can also explore:

• Vintage Enduro Custom Showcase

• Hand pinstriping and helmet customisation

• Custom motorcycle displays

• Hall of Fame installation

• Live bands

• Festival after-party at Deus Temple

The celebrations wrap up on Sunday, 25 October, at Deus Pits, where winners receive their trophies before Indonesian surf-rock favourites The Panturas take the stage for the festival's closing performance.

The Art, Music and Culture of Slidetober Fest

Beyond surfing and motorcycles, Slidetober Fest has become a showcase for Bali's creative scene.

Balinese artist Andre Yoga created this year's visual identity, blending surf culture, motorcycles, mythology, and Balinese symbolism into a striking festival aesthetic. His exhibition is one of the weekend’s centrepieces.

The music programme also reflects Bali's creative diversity, featuring experimental musicians, indie bands, vinyl DJs and audiovisual artists who blur the lines between traditional Balinese influences and contemporary sound.

Rather than simply attending an event, visitors become part of a wider creative community where surf, art, music and motorcycle culture naturally overlap.

If you're planning your Bali holiday around major events, don't miss our guide to Bali's Biggest Festivals and Events in 2026

Surfers can also explore our guide to Bali's Best Surf Spots

Looking for more unforgettable experiences? Read our guide to Must-Do Things in Bali

FAQ

What is Slidetober Fest 2026?

Slidetober Fest 2026 is a three-day festival by Deus Ex Machina celebrating surf, motorcycles, art, music and Balinese culture through competitions, exhibitions, live performances and community events.

When is Slidetober Fest 2026?

Slidetober Fest takes place from 23–25 October 2026.

Where is Slidetober Fest 2026 held?

Events take place across multiple locations, including Pererenan Beach, Pasut Beach, Pakung Tibah, and Deus Ex Machina Temple in Canggu.