Article by Viory
Thousands of spectators gathered at the Hotel Indonesia (HI) Roundabout in Jakarta to celebrate Chinese New Year, marking the first time the Lunar New Year festivities were held in the heart of the Indonesian capital.
Footage from Monday shows an iconic area transformed into a sea of red with lanterns, featuring a lion dance performance as the main attraction, capturing the attention of thousands of spectators.
“This is the first time I’ve been here to join the Chinese New Year in Indonesia. But it is great. So many people here are celebrating. I’m very happy; I’m very glad I am over here to enjoy the Chinese New Year,” said Lee, a tourist from China.
The Jakarta Lunar New Year Festival, which will run until February 17, will feature 3D lanterns representing the 12 Chinese zodiac animals, a lantern walk, an LED pagoda, dance performances, and laser shows.
“In my opinion, this is really good – very cool, really cool. It’s a balance between Indonesian culture and Chinese culture, which basically reflects the principle of ‘Bineka Tunggal Ika’ (unity in diversity), different but still one,” said Deslion Pratama, a Jakarta resident.
According to Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung, the 2026 Lunar New Year Festival reflects the Jakarta Government’s commitment to fostering diversity and strengthening tolerance among religious communities in the capital.
Article by Viory
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