Plan Your Trip Around Bali's Biggest Festivals and Events in 2026

Bali's calendar is packed with events that celebrate everything from art and design to food, music, literature and sport. While the island is a year-round destination, timing your visit around one of its signature festivals can add a whole new dimension to your trip.

From internationally recognised creative gatherings to community-led cultural celebrations, here are the biggest annual events in Bali still to come in 2026, along with a few highlights that have already made this year's calendar unforgettable.

Why Bali's Annual Events Are Worth Planning Your Trip Around

One week, Bali might welcome world-class designers and collectors; the next it could host thousands of marathon runners or transform its beaches into immersive music experiences. These events offer a chance to experience the island beyond its beaches, connecting visitors with Bali's creative community, local culture and vibrant hospitality scene.

Still to Come in 2026

JIA CURATED (13–17 August)

One of Southeast Asia's leading celebrations of craft, design and culture, JIA CURATED returns to Bali with its biggest edition yet. Set against the natural backdrop of Pengembak Beach in Sanur, this year's event brings together more than 250 local and international brands, alongside immersive installations, architecture, talks and live performances. Guided by the theme Nature Weave, the festival explores the connection between people, design and the natural world, making it one of the island's most inspiring events for creatives, collectors and curious travellers alike.

KU DE TA White Party (15 August)

One of Bali's most iconic nightlife events returns with Atlantis: The Lost Kingdom of Light. This year's KU DE TA White Party transforms the Seminyak beachfront into an immersive underwater world with large-scale production, theatrical performances and headline act CHAMBORD, alongside KU DE TA's resident DJs. Dress in white and expect one of the island's biggest nights of the year.

Maybank Marathon Bali (21-23 August)

One of Bali’s biggest sporting events returns this August for its 15th edition, bringing runners from Indonesia and around the world to Gianyar for a weekend of racing, community and island energy. Taking place from 21–23 August 2026 at the Bali United Training Center in Gianyar, Maybank Marathon offers three race categories, Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21.1 km) and 10K, making it accessible to both serious distance runners and those looking to experience Bali through sport.

More than just a race, Maybank Marathon has become an important part of Bali’s annual sporting calendar and a draw for international runners planning their trips around the event. It is also Indonesia’s only World Athletics Elite Label Road Race, adding international recognition to an event that brings together elite athletes, amateur runners and the wider community. For travellers visiting Bali in August, it offers a different way to experience the island, combining the challenge of the course with the atmosphere, scenery and hospitality that make Bali such a popular destination.

Mereren Fest (22–24 August)

One of Bali's newest cultural festivals, Mereren Fest celebrates the creative spirit of Pererenan through music, art, food and the island's iconic kite traditions. Across three days, visitors can experience live performances, photography exhibitions, colourful kite parades and competitions, cultural performances, and local culinary pop-ups, all while marking the opening of Noema Resort Pererenan. Blending community, creativity and Balinese heritage, it's a fresh addition to Bali's annual events calendar.

Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (21–25 October)

Returning for its 23rd edition, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival remains one of Asia's leading literary events. This year's theme, Samarasā: Awareness. Empathy. Action., inspires a five-day programme of author talks, panel discussions, workshops, live performances and cultural experiences across Ubud. Bringing together acclaimed Indonesian and international writers, artists and thinkers, it's an unmissable event for anyone with a love of books, storytelling and ideas.

Sanur Village Festival (November)

Celebrating the culture and coastal spirit of Bali's east coast, the Sanur Village Festival returns this November with a vibrant programme of live music, traditional performances, local cuisine and community events. Held along the Sanur beachfront, the festival brings together art exhibitions, culinary showcases, sporting activities, environmental initiatives and family-friendly entertainment, offering visitors a relaxed way to experience one of Bali's most beloved annual celebrations.

Earlier Highlights from Bali's 2026 Event Calendar

The first half of 2026 also delivered a packed calendar of standout events, including the Ubud Village Jazz Festival, Ubud Food Festival, Bali Wedding Fair at The Meru & Bali Beach Hotel, and Solaris at Savaya, each attracting local and international audiences.

Planning Your Bali Trip Around Festival Season

August remains one of the busiest and most exciting months on the island, with multiple festivals, sporting events and creative gatherings taking place across Bali. If you're planning to visit during this period, it's worth booking accommodation and event tickets well in advance.

No matter when you visit, Bali's annual events offer a unique way to experience the island beyond its beaches, connecting travellers with its creativity, culture and community.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bali for festivals?
August is one of the busiest months, with major design, music, cultural and sporting events taking place across the island.

Which Bali events are suitable for families?
Sanur Village Festival, Mereren Fest, Ubud Food Festival and many sessions at the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival are all suitable for families and visitors of different ages.