Top 5 Most Famous Festivals in Brunei
Traditional festivals are a unique type of culture, a spiritual product of Bruneian culture, passed down from generation to generation. The following are the ... read more...most famous festivals in Brunei that you can refer to. They are also events to commemorate and express the people's gratitude to the national gods and heroes who have contributed to the community and the country. Let's discover together now!
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Every year on the 17th of Ramadhan, Brunei celebrates Nuzul Al-Quran. The holiday was revealed to Muhammad during the month of Ramadan. This is why Muslims believe Ramadan to be the holiest month of the year. Muslims commemorate the day by reciting passages from the Quran, visiting the mosque, and praying in public. In Brunei, as in other Muslim countries, it is a serious and reflective time. This is one of the most famous festivals in Brunei.
The first words of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) during one of his isolated retreats to the Cave of Hira', and they were the first five lines of Surah Al-'Alaq from Chapter 96 of the Qur'an, and they were the first five lines of Surah Al-'Alaq from Chapter 96 of the Quran. Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) continued to hear Quranic verses for another 23 years after this day. Nuzul Al-Quran is a day of seriousness and thought for Muslims, who observe it by going to mosques for prayers and reciting the Quran.
Date: 17th Ramadhan
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Brunei commemorates the day it gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1984 on February 23rd. It is Brunei's National or Independence Day. Brunei was a British protectorate for more than two decades before gaining full independence from colonial administration. The day is significant to all Bruneians, who utilize it as an occasion to demonstrate their patriotism. On Brunei's National, massive celebrations are held in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei, with the Sultan of Brunei marching in the festivities.
Thousands of people would assemble in the nation's capital every year to commemorate this day with coordinated marches and large performances involving individuals from all walks of life. If you enjoy fireworks, the celebration usually ends in a great display of colors at night, when dazzling pyrotechnics take to the skies, bringing a fitting finale to a memorable day.
Date: February 23rd
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Hassanal Bolkiah, the eldest son of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and Raja Isteri (Queen) Pengiran Anak Damit, was born on July 15, 1946. Following his father's resignation on October 5th 1967, he became Crown Prince in 1961 and succeeded to the throne as Sultan of Brunei. On August 1, 1968, His Majesty the Sultan was crowned with pomp and splendor in keeping with Brunei's historic customs and traditions. He is Brunei's 29th Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan, continuing a nearly uninterrupted succession that dates back to the 14th century. He also serves as Prime Minister of Brunei, making him one of the few absolute monarchs in the world.
The Sultan's Birthday - one of the most famous festivals in Brunei, is usually followed by two weeks of outdoor food bazaars that line the capital's streets and parking lots, along with traditional dances and local music performances. It's a pleasant experience that shouldn't be missed in a city that generally turns silent at night. This Sultan's Birthday is observed all around the country, with the day commencing with mass prayers. After that, His Majesty the Sultan gives a royal address, followed by an investiture ceremony at the Istana Nurul Iman. Then there are gatherings in each of the four districts, where His Majesty greets and congregates with his subjects.
Date: July 15th
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Muslims all throughout the world celebrate Hari Raya AidilFitri, an Islamic festival. It is Brunei's most wholesome holiday of the year, with most stores and restaurants closing for the first three days of the month-long celebration, allowing residents to spend undisturbed quality time with their families and friends. Bring a stylish modest outfit that covers your arms, shoes that cover your toes, and a hijab if you plan on going during this time (first three days) (for ladies). This is one of the few times His Majesty's great palace, Istana Nurul Iman, is open to the public, and you'll get the opportunity to meet members of the Royal Family.
On Hari Raya AidilFitri, there is a long line to enter, but if you've ever wanted to see what His Majesty's palace looks like, now is your opportunity. Men, including the Sultan, will be allowed to meet and greet male members of the Royal Family, while ladies will meet and greet female members of the family, including the Queen.
Date: May 2nd
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The Harvest Festival is a celebration observed by a variety of ethnic groups in Brunei, including the Dusun and Murut. This is one of the most famous festivals in Brunei. It's known as Adau Gayoh in Dusun tradition, and it's held every year on May 1st, with the padi farmer with the most abundant harvest hosting the event, which includes traditional games like the Uwod Yompok (spinning top) and symbolic dances like the Ancayau, as well as traditional food and drinks made from the rice harvest. The Harvest Festival is known as Gawai in Ibanese culture and is held every year on June 1st.
In honor of the cultural celebration, Ibanese households produce and give amounts of handmade rice wine to their neighbors and guests during this unique time. If each family's rice wine is drunk before the end of Gawai, it is considered a lucky sign. Indeed, these are the ingredients for a long, joyous night.
Date: June 1st