RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta- Gorontalo Governor Gusnar Ismail described the 2026 Tumbilotohe Mulolo Festival as a symbol of collaboration and cultural preservation, highlighting its deep roots in the community’s Islamic traditions.

Speaking in Gorontalo on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, Gusnar emphasized that Tumbilotohe -- popularly known as the “night of lighting lamps” -- is observed annually on the 27th night of Ramadan. “The festival is not merely a seasonal ceremony, but a symbol of Gorontalo’s cultural preservation grounded in Islamic values,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

The tradition has evolved over time. In earlier days, residents used kerosene lamps, and even before that, damar resin to keep lights burning through the night. Today, electric lamps dominate urban settings, yet the governor stressed that the essence of Tumbilotohe must remain intact.

The shimmering displays carry strong religious meaning, serving as reminders for Muslims to pay zakat fitrah and illuminating paths to mosques for evening prayers.

This year, coinciding with Ramadan 1447 Hijri, the provincial government is staging the Tumbilotohe Mulolo Festival with 7,500 bottle lamps arranged to create a striking visual spectacle. The program also features torch parades, religious art competitions, and stalls offering traditional Gorontalo delicacies.

The event reflects broad collaboration, involving the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda), local government agencies, businesses, banks, community leaders, and cultural practitioners. “We hope Gorontalo will continue to uphold the Tumbilotohe tradition without losing its religious values. The provincial government will keep supporting larger and more vibrant festivals in the future,” Gusnar affirmed. ***