International Folklore Festival Brings Cultures Together in Ubud

More than 250 performers from Indonesia and four other countries are gathering in Ubud for the Nusantara International Folklore Festival (NIFF) 2026. The two-day festival, featuring traditional dance, music and cultural performances, is held at Museum Puri Lukisan from September 26 to 27. The festival aims to provide audiences with a platform to experience diverse cultures and promote understanding between different nations.

One of the highlights of the festival is a Kapa Haka performance by New Zealand’s Wairea Performing Arts, showcasing Māori dance, movement and traditional songs. The Polish group Nadarzyn Orchestra also appears, presenting traditional performances with an ensemble of percussion and wind instruments. Indonesian participants come from various parts of the archipelago, presenting traditions from different regions.

NIFF Artistic Director and Co-Founder Maria Darmaningsih emphasized the significance of folklore in evolving along with the people who practice it. Festival Director and Co-Founder Sita Tyasutami noted a significant increase in participants compared to last year, with organizers receiving numerous inquiries from prospective performers, volunteers, and workshop participants.