If you are in Bali right now, you’ve undoubtedly seen the magic starting to line the streets. The island is transforming, one beautiful, towering bamboo pole at a time. For our Rimbun Farm family and all our friends on the island, this is one of the most vibrant times to be. This isn’t just decoration; it’s the beginning of Bali’s most important religious celebration: Galungan Day.
The air is filled with a unique sense of excitement and peace. But what does it all mean, and how can you respectfully observe it? Here’s our guide to understanding the upcoming Galungan 2025 celebrations.
What is the Meaning of Galungan Day?
At its core, Galungan celebrates the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil).
It’s a time when the Balinese Hindus believe the ancestral spirits and gods descend to Earth to visit their families. The entire 10-day period is filled with prayers, family gatherings, and intricate offerings.
The most iconic symbol you’ll see is the Penjor—the tall, gracefully curved bamboo pole decorated with coconut leaves, fruits, and flowers that adorns the entrance of every Balinese home. Each one is a work of art and an offering of gratitude.
When is Galungan 2025? The Key Dates
The Balinese Pawukon calendar is 210 days long, which is why Galungan and Kuningan happen twice a year. For this cycle, the dates are right around the corner.
Mark your calendars for these two key dates:
- Galungan Day: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
- Kuningan Day: Saturday, November 29, 2025
Galungan Day (November 19) is the main event, marking the beginning of the celebration. Ten days later, Kuningan Day (November 29) concludes the festival, as the spirits and ancestors are bid a fond farewell and return to the heavens.
How to Experience the Galungan Ceremony as an Expat
As residents of Bali, we have the unique privilege of observing this sacred time. Here is what you can see and how you can respectfully participate.
The Day Before: Penampahan Galungan (Nov 18)
The day before Galungan is a busy one. You’ll smell the delicious aroma of babi guling (suckling pig) and lawar (a traditional mixed vegetable and meat dish) being prepared. Families are busy making the final offerings. The Penjor are also erected on this day, so it’s a fantastic time to take a drive or walk through local villages and see them all go up.
The Main Event: Galungan Day (Nov 19)
On Galungan Day, the island is alive with devotion.
What you’ll see: Balinese families, dressed in their finest kebaya and saput, will be traveling to their family temples and other major temples (like Pura Desa) to pray.
Where to go: While many family temples are private, you can witness the beautiful atmosphere in public areas and near major village temples. Areas like Ubud, or even the villages surrounding Canggu and Pererenan, will be bustling with beautifully dressed devotees.
What to do: Simply observe. The streets are a beautiful procession. Be mindful of traffic, as many roads may be closed for ceremonies.
The 10-Day Festival
The days between Galungan and Kuningan are for visiting extended family, enjoying the festivities, and visiting other temples. You may see children performing the Barong Ngelawang—a small, energetic Barong dance that goes from house to house to cleanse the village of bad spirits.
The Closing: Kuningan Day (Nov 29)
Kuningan is the final and equally important day. The feeling is slightly different—it’s a celebration of purification. Special offerings, particularly of yellow rice (nasi kuning), are made. After this day, the celebrations draw to a close.
A Quick Note on Etiquette
This is a sacred time for the Balinese. Here are a few tips to show respect:
- Be Patient with Traffic: Many roads will be closed or diverted for a Galungan ceremony. Plan extra time and remember that a ceremony always has the right of way.
- Dress Appropriately: If you are invited to a temple or wish to observe from the outside, always wear a sarong and a sash (selendang). Be modest and cover your shoulders.
- Ask Before You Photograph: Don’t just point your camera, especially at people who are praying. A respectful smile and a simple gesture asking for permission go a long way.
- Say the Right Thing: The official greeting is “Rahajeng Rahina Galungan lan Kuningan.” (Happy Galungan and Kuningan Day). You will make any Balinese person smile if you greet them with this.
A Time for Gratitude
From all of us at Rimbun Farm, we hope this guide helps you better understand the Galungan Bali 2025 festivities. It is a powerful and beautiful reminder of the island’s unique spirit. We wish all our Balinese friends, staff, and neighbours peace and joy during this sacred time.
Rahajeng Rahina Galungan lan Kuningan!