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Hey there! If you’re thinking of visiting Bali, March is a fantastic time to dive into the island’s vibrant culture. Bali has so many exciting events and ceremonies happening, and we’ve gathered some of the best ones for you below. Take a look!

Overview of March 2023 Events

• Univlox TGIF : 4 March 2023, in Nusa Dua
• Joyland Festival Bali 2023 : 17~19 March 2023, in Nusa Dua
• Melasti : 19 March 2023
• Ngerupuk : 21 March 2023
• Nyepi : 22 March 2023
• Ngembak Geni (Omed-Omedan) : 23 March 2023

Music Events

Univlox TGIF 2023 (4 March 2023)

Music event happening in Nusa Dua on March 4, 2023. It’s going to be an amazing opportunity to enjoy great music, dance, and connect with other music lovers. So you know it’s going to be a night to remember full of fun and entertainment. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Univlox TGIF is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Bali’s vibrant music scene. You can check the performer list or purchase tickets from their website.

So why not come early, grab a drink, and get ready to dance the night away? Can’t wait to see you there!

Joyland Festival Bali 2023 (17~19 March 2023)

Yo, music lovers! Check out the Joyland Festival Bali happening in Nusa Dua from March 17-19, 2023.

But wait, there’s more! The festival also boasts a magical ambiance with three different stages, outdoor film screenings, stand-up comedy, workshops and family activities, as well as local community markets are still present as the main components.

Cultural Events

One of the most important events in March is Nyepi, also known as the Day of Silence. If you’re interested in experiencing this unique cultural event, you can participate in a few different ways.

Melasti (19 March 2023)

The “melasti/mekiyis/melis” ceremony is an important part of the lead-up to Nyepi and takes place a few days before Nyepi in Bali. During this event, Balinese Hindus perform a ritual of cleansing and purification on the beach. This ceremony is a part of self-purification and is used to purify sacred objects or all religious tools, known as “Pratima“. Balinese women carry offerings made from cake, fruits, and flowers, while men carry the Pratima and a particular umbrella called a “Tedung” and head to rivers, lakes, or beaches.

As a tourist, you have the opportunity to be part of the procession. That said, we kindly ask you to be mindful and respectful of the activities taking place during the service. Remember, this event holds significant meaning for the Balinese people. Enjoy the ceremony!

Pengerupukan (21 March 2023)

The day before Nyepi, March 21, is a lively and colorful day in Bali. It is called Ngerupuk, and it is a day when Balinese people hold a parade with big, colorful effigies called ogoh-ogoh.

In the afternoon, all villagers participate in a ceremony to cleanse their homes from evil spirits and keep them away from their lives. You can hear the loud sound of wooden bells or the smell of a torch being burned around the house.

After completion, the statue parade (Ogoh-ogoh) will begin between 7 and 9 at night, and a large crowd can be seen on the main road. During this time, most roads will be impassable. These effigies are paraded through the streets, and their loud music and noise are meant to scare off evil spirits. This is supposed to expel Batara Kala or Demon.

This is a fun and festive time to be in Bali, as the streets come alive with music, dance, and celebration.

Nyepi (22 March 2023)

Also known as the Day of Silence, this is a Hindu celebration based on Caka calendar.

This is a time for personal reflection and introspection, be aware that the island will be completely silent and empty. The streets are empty, no cars or motorbikes will be allowed on the roads, and the airports and seaports are closed.

For 24 hours starting at 06.00 this morning until 06.00 the following morning, the Balinese carry out Catur Berata Penyepian. It’s a surreal experience to witness such a bustling island come to a complete standstill and many Balinese Hindus use this day to meditate or perform acts of self-improvement. It is also believed to be a time when the time is cleansed and renewed.

Nyepi is a unique and unforgettable experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. It’s a chance to witness Balinese culture at its most introspective and contemplative, and to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s rich heritage. On the day of Nyepi itself, you can participate in the local customs by staying indoors, keeping quiet, and avoiding any kind of light or noise.

Some hotels and resorts offer special Nyepi packages, where you can stay on their premises and participate in the day’s activities. You can check our Nyepi packages here.

Omed-omedan (23 March 2023)

Finally, on March 23, the day after Nyepi, people gather in the village of Banjar Kaja, Sesetan, Denpasar for a playful water fight known as Omed-Omedan. Couples take turns kissing in the street while getting doused with water. But the real fun begins when the young men try to catch the young women and give them a kiss on the cheek! This is a fun and light-hearted event that celebrates the beginning of a new year.

The event has several functions, including a show of respect of the ancestors and also bringing the community together.

As a visitor, you can watch the event from a safe distance and soak up the lively atmosphere. It’s a great way to experience a different side of Balinese culture and see the fun-loving and affectionate side of the locals. Just remember to keep it PG and enjoy the festivities!

Overall, March is a fantastic time to visit Bali if you’re interested in experiencing Balinese culture and tradition. These events offer a unique opportunity to witness the island’s rich history and customs firsthand.