RRI.CO.ID, Banyuwangi - Tourist arrivals to Banyuwangi have increased ahead of the Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival (BEC) 2026, reflecting growing interest in one of Indonesia's leading cultural festivals. The update was announced in Banyuwangi on Thursday, July 16, 2026, two days before the event opens.

General Manager of Banyuwangi Airport, Mohamad Holik Muardi, said demand for flights to Banyuwangi has risen in recent days. He noted that seat occupancy on the Jakarta–Banyuwangi route has reached around 90 percent.

Holik said the growing number of visitors indicates the increasing popularity of the annual cultural event. He expects passenger arrivals to continue rising until the carnival begins.

"Ahead of the Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival, we have recorded higher demand for air travel. Seat occupancy on the Jakarta–Banyuwangi route has reached around 90 percent," Holik said.

Airport data showed 176 passengers arrived from Jakarta on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Another 167 passengers arrived on Thursday, July 16, 2026, with more travelers expected before the festival.

This year's carnival features ethnic costume parades under the theme "Perang Bayu", inspired by the heroic resistance of the people of Banyuwangi against Dutch colonial forces in the eighteenth century. The story commemorates the historical origins of Banyuwangi and its enduring cultural identity.

The BEC Week celebration runs from July 16 to 19, featuring cultural performances and community events. The main carnival parade will take place on Saturday, July 18, 2026, beginning at 1:00 p.m.