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Bali is an incredible destination. This tiny province offers everything you could ask for in a travel destination…and then some.

Indonesia, as a nation, is home to a wealth of travel opportunities, and leaders are looking to connect Bali tourists with the neighbouring province of East Java. Here at The Bali Sun, we are huge supporters of this…we wanna see and do everything!

East Java is home to some exceptional cultural landmarks and natural wonders. Mount Ijen, the active volcano that spits blue flames, is perhaps the most famous landmark of East Java, but honestly, this is only the start.

For more than three years, leaders in Bali and East Java have been working together to improve connectivity between the two regions to make it easier for tourists to explore. 

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The gateway to East Java from Bali is a place called Banyuwangi. This is one of the most culturally rich and underrated destinations in all of Java.

For tourists and travellers seeking something a little different from their upcoming vacation in Indonesia, we here at The Bali Sun highly recommend creating a multi-stop itinerary that starts in West Bali before hopping over to East Java, via a fast boat or ferry from Bali’s Gilimanuk to Banyuwangi.

If you’re planning a two week vacation in Bali, we highly recommend spending 3 days in a Bali beach resort like Uluwatu, Nusa Dua or Sanur, followed by a few days in the cultural capital of Ubud before traveling to West Bali and staying either in West Bali National Park or in nearby Sumberkima or Pemuteran, before hopping on the ferry to East Java to spend the final days of the vacation exploring volcano peaks, waterfalls and cultural gems in Surabaya or Malang.

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The Banyuwangi Tourism Office has just confirmed that there will be a whopping 86 events and attractions in the calendar in 2026. These include Barong Ider Bumi, Tumpeng Sewu, Seblang, and Kebo-Keboan, which are all powerful symbols of local traditions.

Speaking to reporters, the Regent of Banyuwangi, Ipuk Fiestiandani, explained that the Banyuwangi Attractions List is one way the regional government is working to strengthen and promote local identity and serves as a platform for community collaboration.

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He explained, “This aligns with President Prabowo’s Indonesia ASRI (Safe, Healthy, Clean, Beautiful) program. ASRI mandates that each region strengthen regional arts and culture to enrich the national culture.“

He added, “Banyuwangi is known as a region rich in traditions and cultural performing arts. However, culture cannot simply be passed down. It must be nurtured, performed, and celebrated.” Noting “These events aren’t just spectacles, but a space for expression for local artists, the younger generation, and creative economy players.”

There is a huge range of different attractions, events, and festivals taking place in Banyuwangi in 2026, ranging from cultural ceremonies to sports events, music festivals to community gatherings.

Bali tourists are openly invited to East Java and to dive deeper into what Indonesia has to offer.

One of the super cool things about visiting both West Bali and East Java is the scope to compare and contrast these neighboring regions.

While markedly similar in so many ways, it is the district differences between these two provinces that help open travelers’ minds and leave them genuinely inspired. 

The Acting Head of the Banyuwangi Culture and Tourism Office, Hartono, explained that the Banyuwangi Attractions List is not just a tourism event, but part of a regional development strategy. “This attraction strengthens culture, stimulates the economy, builds a positive image of the region, and strengthens collaboration between the government, the community, and businesses.”

He concluded, “We believe that when culture is preserved, sports are promoted, and the environment is cared for, development will be more sustainable and inclusive.”

Top picks on the Banyuwangi event calendar for 2026 include cultural events like the Seblang Olehsari, which will be held on 23rd- 29th March, the Kebo-Keboan Alasmalang, which will be held on 28th June, and the Petik Laut Muncar on 20th July.

In terms of sporting events, adrenaline-fuelled adventures will also be hosted across the East Java region, with the Banyuwangi BMX Super Cross event on 27th June and the Banyuwangi Ijen Geopark Downhill on 19th-20th  September.

The Ijen Green Trail Run 2026 will be held on 12th September. Event details can be found at the Banyuwangi Tourism Office Instagram account.  

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