Christmas 2008 is about to arrive at our doorstep. There is no snow here in Bali. However, do not worry since Bali has a rather similar ambience, namely the cold breeze of rainy season falling intermittently since last October. Hopefully this would not dampen the merriness and solemnity of the festive season.
The Christian community in Bali definitely prepares everything for the festivity at least a week in advance. Every household has their own special food and drink intended for welcoming this holy day. Essentially it’s how to make this sacred and momentous day so meaningful and impressive. Another preparation that is no less important is decorating the Christmas tree with distinctive ornaments and colorful lights.
Meanwhile, a unique spectacle in relation to the festivity is that some churches install penjor, a popular local decorative element made of bamboo pole and embellished with young palm or coconut leaf, and circled bamboo entrance gate festooned with shredded palm leaf. Local Hindus regularly apply the penjor on temple anniversary and human life-cycle rites. The difference between these two penjors lies in the use of ritual paraphernalia like bamboo shrine, ubag-abig (festooned coconut leaf paraphernalia) and so forth used for Hindu ceremonies. Another distinctive feature is devotees of churches at suburban or rural areas usually dress in traditional Balinese attire. These indicate an adoption of local traditions and maintain close relationship of Balinese Christian to its local roots. Besides, interfaith harmony has been well maintained through the ages on this paradise island.
Visitors who would like to celebrate this momentous festivity on the island would be well advised to book their accommodation early if they do not want to be ‘homeless’ in Bali. As in previous years, hotels, villas and other accommodation are usually fully booked. Many domestic visitors also flood this island staying until the celebration of New Year. Similarly, they want to enjoy the annual moment on the paradise island known to have endless uniqueness and festivals all the year around.
During this period there is one magnificent event that would be a pity to miss, namely the Christmas Eve Dinner. Chefs of hotels and local restaurants at leading tourist resorts like Sanur, Ubud, Kuta and Nusa Dua certainly have prepared special menus for this annual celebration. On that account, enjoy each tempting splendor and delicacy while inhaling the atmosphere of festivity.
Holidaying in Bali would not be complete without exploring its culture and nature. Add some excursion on your day program. There are a wide variety of tourist objects and attractions to enjoy like the Denpasar city tour program looking closely at some monuments and daily activities at the biggest traditional market on the island; water and land adventures or island excursion with the visit beginning at the Barong and Kris Dance stage.
In short, celebrating the festive season in Bali would give you an advantage. Firstly, you could immortalize the sacred day on a peaceful island and secondly, share with family or friends an unforgettable holiday filled with various enjoyments and attractions. Merry Christmas!
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