Christmas in Indonesia is a heartwarming celebration that combines global hits with locally cherished hymns. For foreign tourists looking to experience the festive season here, music is an integral part of the celebration, offering a unique perspective on how Indonesians embrace this joyous occasion. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular Indonesia Christmas songs you’ll hear during your holiday.
All I Want For Christmas Is You
This global Christmas anthem, originally sung by Mariah Carey in 1994, remains a favorite across Indonesia. Indonesian artists have given it new life through memorable renditions.
Anneth Delliecia’s 2019 version, shared widely on YouTube, captivated local audiences. Lyodra, one of Indonesia’s top vocalists, brought her own emotional take to the song during a television performance.
The song was also featured in the 2016 RCTI Christmas Special Concert, with powerful performances by Once Mekel, GAC, and other top names in the Indonesian music scene.
Also read: Discover the Beauty of Indonesia Christmas Churches
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
This classic song, written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane in 1943, expresses heartfelt wishes for joy and a hopeful new year.
In Indonesia, it’s a staple during Christmas concerts. David Bayu’s rendition, accompanied by Vega Antares and Erikson Jayanto, captured the festive spirit beautifully. Sidney Mohede, with Dewa Budjana’s guitar accompaniment, offered a soulful and modern version.
Other popular singers like Ardhito Pramono, Ziva Magnolya, and Eva Celia have also performed it, adding a touch of Indonesian warmth to this timeless melody.
Grown-Up Christmas List
First performed in 1989 by David Foster and Natalie Cole, this song resonates with its heartfelt prayers for peace, love, and truth.
In Indonesia, the song gained popularity through Trie Utami’s moving performance with the Twilite Orchestra in 1992. Franky Sihombing and his wife Feby Febiola recorded a deeply personal rendition during her battle with cancer, touching the hearts of listeners.
This song’s universal message makes it a meaningful addition to Indonesia’s Christmas celebrations.
Also read: Discover 7 Indonesia’s Unique Christmas Traditions
White Christmas
Written by Irving Berlin in 1942, this dreamy classic about snowy Christmases has been embraced warmly in Indonesia.
Glenn Fredly included it in his 2006 Christmas album Terang, infusing it with Indonesian soul. The song is also a favorite during Christmas specials and concerts, with notable performances by Mike Mohede, Eva Celia, and Regina Ivanova.
Despite Indonesia’s tropical climate, this song’s imagery captures the universal longing for a peaceful holiday season.
We Wish You A Merry Christmas
This universally loved Christmas tune has found a special place in Indonesia’s festive traditions. Indonesian singers such as Ruth Sahanaya, Ari Lasso, and Once Mekel have reimagined the song with Indonesian lyrics while preserving its joyful melody.
Its simplicity and celebratory spirit make it a perfect finale for Christmas events, especially in community gatherings and church services.
Also read: Indonesian Christmas Decorations: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Festivity
Dia Lahir Untuk Kami
This Indonesian hymn, performed by Victor Hutabarat, celebrates the birth of Christ with reverence and gratitude. Its spiritual depth makes it a cornerstone of Christmas worship in Indonesia, offering foreign visitors a glimpse into the country’s strong religious traditions.
Hai Mari Berhimpun
Known internationally as O Come, All Ye Faithful, this hymn is a beloved favorite in Indonesia. Delon Thamrin’s soothing rendition is particularly cherished, bringing peace and harmony to Christmas services and gatherings.
Also read: 11 Best Places to Spend Christmas in Indonesia
Gita Sorga Bergema
This traditional hymn, found in Indonesian hymnals like Kidung Jemaat and Puji Syukur, is a must-sing during Christmas church services. It celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with joy and triumph, uniting congregations in song during the holiday season.
Seribu Lilin Nyalakan
This Indonesian Christmas song, performed by Herlin Pirena and Natashia Nikita in 2014, symbolizes hope and the light of Christ. Its uplifting message and melodious arrangement make it a memorable addition to Christmas celebrations, reflecting the warmth of the Indonesian holiday spirit.
While enjoying Indonesia’s rich musical traditions during Christmas, it’s essential to plan your trip accordingly. Celebrating Christmas in Indonesia offers foreign tourists a unique opportunity to experience the blend of faith, culture, and festivities. From attending local concerts to joining Christmas services, there’s much to explore and enjoy during your visit.
If you plan to celebrate Christmas in Indonesia, ensure your trip complies with local immigration regulations.
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.
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