RRI.CO.ID, Jepara - The coastal town of Jepara, Central Java, has introduced a unique cultural highlight to its annual Lomban Syawalan festivities with the return of the Kirab Kerbau Bule (Albino Buffalo Parade). Lomban is a traditional sea festival which was held on Friday, March 27, 2026.

The parade is designed to serve as a major tourist magnet, aimed at revitalizing the local economy and preserving maritime identity and covered a distance of over one kilometer, starting from the Jobokuto Fish Auction Site (TPI) and ending at the Jepara Slaughterhouse (RPH). The event was attended by top local officials, including Jepara Regent Witiarso Utomo and Vice Regent M. Ibnu Hajar, signaling the administration's high-level support for cultural tourism.

The albino buffalo was last paraded in 2019, making its 2026 return a highly anticipated moment for thousands of residents who lined the streets. Beyond the spectacle, Regent Witiarso Utomo noted that the kerbau bule carries deep philosophical meaning, representing a "new spirit" and "extraordinary strength" for the community.

Significantly, the parade serves to clarify and provide transparency for the public regarding the ritual sacrifice. "This parade is not just a procession, but also a symbol of transparency, showing that the buffalo to be offered is whole," the Regent explained, as qupted by Antara.

The regional administration plans to maximize the potential of the Lomban tradition to increase Local Resource Income (PAD) in the coming years. By positioning the Kirab Kerbau Bule as a signature attraction, Jepara expressed hope to draw more domestic and international visitors to its shores during the post-Lebaran week.

For residents like Retno (40), who waited since early morning to see the majestic animal, the parade is a source of local pride. "I heard there would be an albino buffalo procession and didn't want to miss it," she shared.

The parade serves as the prelude to the grand climax of the 2026 Lomban Syawalan, which will take place on Saturday, March 28. During this final event, a buffalo head will be ritually cast into the Jepara sea (larung sesaji), accompanied by thousands of fishing boats.

This tradition is a profound expression of gratitude to God for the ocean's bounty and a collective prayer for the safety and prosperity of Jepara's fishing community throughout the year. ***