In many parts of the world, new year celebration is regarded as a festive celebration. Like other citizens of many countries in the world, Indonesians too party at the turn of every year.

In the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta, the most extravagant event is usually held in front of Government Center.  A variety of performances and traditional arts will be showcased, such as puppet, lenong, traditional music or popular bands for the public to see. Although Jakarta hosts many New Year’s events, the celebration at the Government Center is the biggest and most celebrated as it is opened to all people from all walks of life and all economic classes.

The second biggest new year festival is held at Taman Impian Jaya Ancol, the largest theme park in Indonesia. All night long, park visitors will be entertained by live music from the top local bands and singers. In addition to the live music, Ancol often captivates the audiences with grand fireworks in three different locations in the park, i.e. the Beach Pool, Carnival beach and the Mermaid Resort ,when midnight strikes. The spectacular firework show  usually lasts for about 15 minutes.

Since the city does not sleep on New Year’s Eve, Jakarta’s traffic police must work doubly hard, especially when the traffic volume increases drastically. To ensure a smooth traffic and prevent road accident, The Department of Transportation put a number of officers at points of congestion in the city. These officers are deployed to assist the Metro Traffic Polices who are stationed near to the locations of big parties.

However, Indonesia is a unique country made up by so many people from different ethnicities and beliefs. In Jakarta, New Year may be celebrated with cheers and sparkles. Yet in more remote provinces, such as Maluku islands or in many rural areas in Kalimantan or Java, Indonesians celebrate New Year with a reflection while watching the first sunrise on the top of a mountain, a high hill or the ruins of the ancient palaces and temples. These humble celebrations can be equally breathtaking as the parties in the capital. Imagine closing the year in tranquility with the view of twinkling lights from the villages downhill. Welcoming the first day of the year with the warmth of golden rays on your face as the sun rises from the horizon, it is an experience worth trying, indeed.

souce: http://www.globalindonesianvoices.com/