RRI.CO.ID, Klaten – Thousands of people crowded the Bukit Sidoguro area in Klaten, Central Java, to celebrate the Grebeg Syawal tradition on Saturday, March 28, 2026. According to a written press release from the Klaten Regency Secretariat, locals enthusiastically participated in a series of events rich in cultural value and a sense of community starting early in the morning.

The organizing committee prepared 1,000 servings of ready-to-eat ketupat and 18 towering stacks of ketupat for visitors. These towering stacks became the main attraction most eagerly awaited and fiercely competed for by the local community.

Interim Head of the Klaten Culture Office, Purwanto, described this event as a means of fostering direct social bonds. The local government aims to build a stronger connection with the community through this annual event.

The government hopes this long-standing tradition remains well-preserved amidst modernization. This initiative is taken to ensure the region’s cultural identity is not lost to the ever-changing times.

“This tradition serves as a moment for mutual forgiveness while also acting as a form of cultural preservation that has lived and thrived within the community since ancient times,” he said.

Through this event, locals can meet one another and reconnect after the Eid al-Fitr holiday. A strong sense of family is palpable as the community gathers in this picturesque hilly area.

The Regent of Klaten, Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo, stated that Grebeg Syawal is not merely entertainment for the public. This tradition holds a profound philosophical meaning for everyone who celebrates it.

He explained that the ketupat is a symbol of acknowledging one’s mistakes, or in Javanese, “ngaku lepat.” A pure heart after forgiveness is symbolized by the pure white filling of the ketupat.

“Through Grebeg Syawal, we are reminded to forgive one another and strengthen our bonds of kinship. This is a special moment because we can gather together, share happiness, and at the same time preserve the culture passed down by our ancestors,” said Hamenang.

In addition to the traditional procession, residents also enjoyed musical entertainment from the Orkes Melayu Lorenza at the venue. The melodies of this traditional music added to the festive atmosphere in the Bukit Sidoguro Klaten tourist area.

The Klaten Regency Government is committed to continuing to preserve Grebeg Syawal as a unique local identity. Moving forward, this event is expected to strengthen the value of social compassion among all segments of society.