Every year on the 17th of August, Indonesia commemorates the day it gained independence from the Netherlands. Indonesia considers the day it achieved liberty from foreign rule as its national day. Hence, it celebrates Indonesian Independence Day every year on August 17th.

Here is everything you need to know about the National Day (Independence Day) in Indonesia.

Table of Contents

• Is Independence Day in Indonesia a public holiday?
• History of Independence Day in Indonesia
• Important Indonesia Independence Day Symbols
• Indonesia Independence Day Activities and Celebrations
• Past and Future Observances of Independence Day in India

Is Independence Day in Indonesia a public holiday?

The National Day or Independence Day in Indonesia is considered a public holiday. Thus, schools, government business, and most businesses are closed. It is a time for employees from both public and private institutions to take a break  from work and participate in activities to remember a significant day in their country’s history.

History of Independence Day in Indonesia

For more than 300 years, Indonesia was a Dutch colony, until a group of revolutionaries declared that Indonesia is no longer tied to the Netherlands. This took place on the 17th of August in 1945. However, it still took several years before Indonesia was formally granted independence by the Queen of Netherlands. In fact, it was only in 2005 that the Netherlands officially declared that they are accepting August 17, 1945 as the day when Indonesia got its independence.

Important Indonesia Independence Day Symbols

The most important symbol of the Indonesian Independence Day is the country’s national flag, which is colored in red and white horizontal stripes. Called the “Sang Saka Merah-Putih” (or “the sacred red and white”), the Indonesian flag was first hoisted on August 17, 1945. Red symbolizes courage, while white represents purity.

Indonesia Independence Day Activities and Celebrations

The Indonesian Independence Day is celebrated through parades, performing arts and cultural shows, sports competitions, and community gatherings. There is an official celebration at the Presidential Palace where the Declaration of Independence will be read out at 10:00 a.m. and the national flag will be hoisted in a perfectly choreographed manner. In some regions, locals try to raise the flag on the highest peak of a mountain or a volcano. Others try to dive underwater and pitch the flag under the ocean. One of the best activities during this day is a traditional game which involves eating Indonesian crackers or “krupuk” and climbing a tree to reach the prize. There are also other games hosted by local communities featuring the traditions of Indonesia. Moreover, some people choose to spend the day doing charitable works, such as donating blood, joining medical missions, or visiting orphanages. Generally, the Indonesian Independence Day is a celebration of joy, patriotism, and unity in the country.

Past and Future Observances of Independence Day in Indonesia

Below are the past and future observances of the Independence Day in India over a span of ten years: