6 Unique Christmas Traditions in Indonesia, from Marbinda to Bakar Batu

In Manado, Christmas is celebrated with Kunci Taon, which means “closing the year.” People attend church services and visit the graves of family members to honor them. They place decorative lights on the graves as a symbol of hope and prayer.

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6. Stone Cooking in Papua

Stone cooking, Christmas tradition in Papua, Indonesia--https://bobo.grid.id/

The Bakar Batu or Stone Cooking tradition is a special way of celebrating Christmas in Papua. After the church service, people cook together using hot stones in a hole in the ground. This activity brings the whole community together, creating a warm and meaningful moment.

Apart from these traditions, Christmas in Indonesia is also a time to strengthen friendships and share love. People from different religions often join their friends or neighbors to celebrate Christmas. This shows the spirit of unity and tolerance in diversity.

Christmas trees decorated with beautiful ornaments and colorful lights are also an important symbol. Every family has their own way of decorating, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.

Christmas in Indonesia is a unique mix of religion and culture. With these special traditions, Christians in Indonesia celebrate Christmas with joy, togetherness, and deep meaning.

These traditions not only bring people closer but also show the beauty of diversity in Indonesia. Merry Christmas! (*)

*) Mahasiswa magang dari jurusan Bahasa dan Sastra Inggris Universitas Airlangga

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