Festival Perahu Bidar Tradisional

The Palembang Traditional Bidar Boat Festival is an iconic event celebrating Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day. Held on the Musi River, it features an exciting rowing competition using traditional bidar boats up to 30 meters long, powered by 57 paddlers along a 1.8 km course past Palembang’s landmarks. Thousands of spectators watch from the riverbanks and boats. The festival also includes a decorated motorboat parade, cultural entertainment, and educational activities about the increasingly rare bidar tradition. This event uniquely blends sport, cultural heritage, and river tourism into one spectacular celebration.