Ubud, ULTIMOPARADISO.COM – PALESTIVAL 2024 was successfully held on Saturday, 28 September 2024, at the Museum Puri Lukisan in Ubud. The event attracted hundreds of enthusiastic visitors who enjoyed a vibrant celebration of Palestinian culture through music, dance, art, film, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Organized by Stay Human Collective, the festival aimed to enhance understanding and appreciation of Palestinian culture while promoting the values of peace and humanity.
One of the main attractions of PALESTIVAL was the live music performances that highlighted the richness of Palestinian traditions. Local musicians collaborated with Palestinian artists in performances that combined traditional Middle Eastern instruments, such as the rebana, with modern styles. The festival also featured Dabke performances, while audiences were treated to a unique collaboration between Bali’s traditional Kecak dance and Palestinian music, uniting two cultures on one stage.
Visitors also had the opportunity to watch documentaries such as Gaza Surf Club, Bye Bye Tiberias, One More Jump and It Must Be Heaven which showcased the spirit and resilience of the Palestinian people in the face of challenges. These film screenings offered a different perspective on life in Palestine, encouraging viewers to reflect on the struggles and creativity emerging from conflict zones.
Throughout the day, the festival was filled with workshops that engaged participants of all ages. Dabke dance workshops, darbouka lessons, and a children’s peace-themed drawing competition created an educational yet festive atmosphere. All activities were offered for free to promote inclusion and togetherness among participants.
In the culinary area, visitors were treated to authentic Palestinian dishes, ranging from hummus to baklava, prepared by local restaurants. A Majlis-style Tea Salon offered traditional Middle Eastern tea and coffee, adding an authentic touch to the festival experience. Additionally, a cultural marketplace featured handmade products inspired by Palestinian traditions, giving attendees the chance to get closer to Middle Eastern culture.
The event was opened with remarks from key figures, including Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati, Pelingsir of Puri Ubud, who expressed his hope that the festival would bring significant change for Palestine. “From Ubud, we pray that Palestine may be granted peace in carrying out daily life,” said Tjokorda Oka.
The Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia, Zuhair Al-Shun, also emphasized the importance of international support for Palestine. “Palestinian culture is always about spreading messages, whether about culture, folklore, or the land. This festival shows that the Palestinian people have a rich history and culture that must be appreciated,” he said.
Tariq Ansari, representative for Stay Human Collective, highlighted that PALESTIVAL was held to celebrate Palestine, not as a political movement, but to introduce Palestine as a nation with a rich culture. “The mission of this festival is to show that Palestinian people are real, with a real culture, and that they are here,” he stated.
With few hundred attendees, PALESTIVAL 2024 successfully brought together various communities to celebrate the peace, diversity, and creativity of the Palestinian people. This festival is hoped to be a small but meaningful step in promoting a deeper understanding of Palestinian culture and identity in Indonesia and around the world.***
About Author
