Indonesia is a country of incredible diversity, and this extends to its Christmas celebrations! Despite being predominantly Muslim, Indonesia’s Christian population – about 10% of the country’s 270 million people – ensures that Christmas is celebrated with unique and festive flair. Here are some fun facts about Christmas in Indonesia that will surprise and delight you.
Also read: Indonesia Christmas Celebration: Guide for Foreign Tourists
A Land of Nativity Scenes and Church Services
Indonesian Christians celebrate Christmas with devotion and creativity. Church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day often feature nativity scenes and live Nativity dramas. These performances are a highlight for many families and a beautiful way to reflect on the Christmas story.
Also read: Discover the Beauty of Indonesia Christmas Churches
Unusual Christmas Trees
While most Indonesian families use artificial Christmas trees, there are some fascinating alternatives. On Bali island, locals craft Christmas trees from chicken feathers, which are also exported internationally! For those who prefer real trees, pine trees from Puncak, West Java, are a popular choice.
Shopping Malls Turn Festive Hubs
In big cities, shopping malls are transformed into magical Christmas wonderlands in early December. Large Christmas trees adorned with vibrant decorations are a common sight. One of the most memorable displays was in 2011 when chocolatiers created a giant Christmas tree made entirely of edible chocolate!
Also read: 11 Best Places to Spend Christmas in Indonesia
Traditional Indonesian Christmas Carols
Christmas carols in Indonesia blend local and global influences. Favorites like “Malam Kudus” (Indonesia’s version of “Silent Night”) are sung during candlelight services, creating a serene and reflective atmosphere. These carols hold a special place in Christmas Eve church celebrations.
Television Specials and Nostalgic Movies
Christmas in Indonesia isn’t complete without festive TV programming. Local channels broadcast musical concerts, and the government organizes a nationally televised Christmas celebration. Hollywood classics like Home Alone remain a holiday favorite, bringing families together for movie marathons.
Also read: Discover 7 Indonesia’s Unique Christmas Traditions
Santa Claus, or Sinterklass
Santa Claus, known locally as Sinterklass, reflects Indonesia’s Dutch colonial history. Sinterklass delights children by delivering gifts and often makes appearances in malls, adding to the holiday cheer.
Delicious Christmas Cookies
Cookies are essential to Indonesian Christmas celebrations. Popular treats include:
- Nastar: Buttery cookies filled with pineapple jam.
- Kastengel: Savory cheese sticks inspired by Dutch cuisine.
- Putri Salju: Sweet butter cookies coated in powdered sugar and cheese.
These cookies are a labor of love and a must-have for holiday gatherings.
Also read:
- 10 Best Indonesian Christmas Food: Traditional Dishes to Enjoy During the Holiday Season
- 10 Indonesian Christmas Desserts: A Taste of Tropical Holiday Sweets
A Blend of Traditions and Languages
In Indonesia, Christmas is called Natal, a term derived from Portuguese. Greeting someone with “Selamat Natal” (Merry Christmas) is a wonderful way to embrace the local language and culture during the festive season.
Indonesia’s unique blend of traditions makes Christmas a magical time for everyone, whether you’re celebrating in a bustling city or a peaceful village.
If you’re planning to spend Christmas in Indonesia, ensure your travel documents are in order.
Check out the full details in our guide on Indonesia Travel and Entry Requirements 2024 and Indonesia Customs Declaration Guide.
For visa purposes, you can enter using the Indonesia visa on arrival which is valid for a 30-day stay. Meanwhile, if you want to stay longer, you can extend the Indonesian visa on arrival or apply for an Indonesia tourist visa.
For a simpler visa application, you can rely on InvestinAsia’s Indonesia Visa service. Our professional team is ready to help you through the process to the end.
Contact us today for a FREE Consultation and special package!
Selamat Natal! 🎄
