RRI.CO.ID, Gorontalo City - The streets of Gorontalo City transformed into a vibrant river of light and sound on Thursday, February 19, 2026, as thousands gathered to celebrate Koko’o, a traditional "predawn wake-up call" for Sahur. This year’s event marked a significant escalation in scale, blending ancestral customs with modern spectacle to usher in the holy month of Ramadan 1447 Hijri year

As reported by Antara, participants marched through main thoroughfares wielding traditional bamboo percussion. They were accompanied by decorated trucks outfitted with professional sound systems and synchronized light displays.

The cultural showcase has evolved far beyond its humble origins of simple wooden knocking. Organizers have intentionally modernized the presentation to capture the imagination of the public while keeping the core ritual intact.

"Every year we keep updating the concept for Koko'o Gorontalo. We play with stage designs and add more elements to be renewed annually," explained Fiqram Idrus, Chairperson of Koko’o Gorontalo.

He noted that participation has surged compared to previous years, with a "booming" turnout of nearly 2,000 people congregating at the starting point alone.

Beyond the festivities, the initiative serves as a deliberate cultural safeguard. By utilizing traditional wooden instruments, the organizers aim to ensure that Gorontalo’s local identity remains vibrant for the younger generation.

"We continue to build that tradition from young children to adults. They must know what Gorontalo’s traditions are like," added Fiqram.

The event received official backing from the Gorontalo City Administration and was formally inaugurated by Deputy Mayor Indra Gobel, signaling the state's recognition of the tradition's social importance.

The sheer scale of the parade even caught the attention of newcomers to the region. Sri Desni Anjani Laia, a visitor from Nias, North Sumatra, expressed her amazement at the local fervor.

"It is my first time seeing Koko'o. I was quite surprised because so many people were enthusiastic in watching and participating," she said.

However, she also offered a note of constructive feedback regarding the security and order of such a massive gathering. "Perhaps the public could be more orderly in terms of safety and the coordination between pedestrians and motorcyclists," added Desni. ***