One day, Budi and his friends were studying with Miss Siti, their English teacher. She introduced them to one of the festivals and traditions in Java. Budi and his friends were excited because they wanted to learn more about festivals and traditions. Miss Siti began by introducing Sekaten. 

“Good morning, everyone! Today, we’ll learn about festivals and traditions in Java. Are you excited?” Miss Siti asked. 

“Sure, Miss Siti!” the students replied.

“Great! In Java, we have many special festivals and traditions. One of them is Sekaten. Do you know what Sekaten is?” Miss Siti asked.

They all sat down and looked at the picture hanging at the blackboard.

Students

Miss Siti

“I’ve heard of it. I like the funfair because it's the most exciting part of Sekaten. I can enjoy cotton candy and ride the merry-go-round,” said Budi.

“It sounds interesting!  Sekaten is a festival that celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. It is held in Surakarta (also known as Solo), Central Java, and the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Have you ever visited Sekaten?” asked their teacher, Miss Siti.

“I have! I visited Sekaten last year, Miss. It was so crowded; there were so many people there. I saw the big parade, or gunungan, and heard the Gamelan music. It was so much fun!” said Maria.

Budi        Maria

Miss Siti

The term "Sekaten" is derived from the Javanese word "Sekati" which means a sacred event. It is a festival featuring prayers, cultural performances, delicious food, and exciting rides. In Surakarta (also known as Solo), two pairs of gunungan consisting of agricultural products are paraded from the Surakarta Palace to the courtyard of the Surakarta Grand Mosque. Thousands of people enthusiastically watch and snatch gunungan (cone-shaped offerings). 

“Sekaten is a fantastic combination of learning, fun, and tradition. Families and communities come together at this time to enjoy the celebrations and reflect on their deeper meaning. It's a great opportunity for children to learn about and participate in the amazing beauty of Indonesian culture in an enjoyable, exciting, and memorable way," explained Miss Siti.

“Oh, I see. It sounds like a wonderful experience to visit Sekaten, Miss!” said Aisyah.

"For primary students, Sekaten is more than just a fun activity. It's an opportunity to learn about Indonesia's rich culture, including the Javanese way of life. Children gain insight into tradition and understand the importance of preserving such festivals for future generations,” said Miss Siti.

Aisyah      

Miss Siti

"That’s wonderful! Another tradition we have in East Java is the Reog Ponorogo performing art. Do you know what Reog is?" asked Miss Siti.

“Yes! Reog has a big mask with a lion face, right? It’s really big and heavy!” said Ahmad.

“That’s right, it's so attractive! Reog Ponorogo performing art is a theatrical dance from Ponorogo. Reog has a big mask with a lion face. The mask is called Singa Barong, and it is very heavy, made from wood, and decorated with feathers. The dancers carry it on their heads.” explained Miss Siti. 

Ahmad

Miss Siti