Indonesia Umbrella Festival: Where Umbrellas Become Art

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The 13th Indonesia Umbrella Festival (Festival Payung Indonesia - FESPIN) returns to Solo, Central Java from September 4 to 6, 2026, bringing together tradition, creativity, and contemporary art. Held annually since 2014 by MATaYA Arts & Heritage, the festival brings traditional umbrella artisans together with artists and creative communities.

As quoted from indonesia.travel, through this year’s theme “Catra Padi – Sepayung Dewi Sri,” FESPIN uses the symbolism of umbrellas to explore rice, cultural heritage, and food security. Catra Padi invites people to view rice not merely as food, but as a symbol of life and a reminder of the importance of food security, sustainability, and solidarity.

Through installations, exhibitions, workshops, and performances, FESPIN presents traditional umbrellas from various Indonesian regions and countries. The festival offers visitors an immersive cultural experience where traditional umbrella artisans meet contemporary artists through creative collaborations.

The festival also maintains a sister-festival partnership with Borsang Umbrella Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand, strengthening international cultural exchange. This partnership connects umbrella traditions across countries while providing opportunities for communities to share creativity, heritage, and artistic perspectives.

Held in Solo, it is not merely a place where the festival takes place. It is a living space for art, tradition, and culture that continues to grow and be passed down through generations.

As quoted from the Instagram account @festivalpayung_indonesia, in the city, traditions blend with everyday life, from the royal palace and local communities to performing arts and various cultural practices that remain alive and continue to evolve. In the festival, people can enjoy art performances, art installations, exhibitions, fashion shows and workshops.

FESPIN encourages participation from creative economy, environmental, social, and cultural communities throughout the festival. Its activities transform umbrellas from everyday objects into cultural expressions that connect heritage, art, agriculture, and contemporary life.

As a living and evolving celebration, FESPIN preserves Indonesian cultural heritage while embracing contemporary ideas and creative collaborations. The festival invites visitors to experience how traditional craftsmanship can meet innovation while keeping cultural heritage relevant for future generations.