Key traditions of Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia

hartono · Mar 21, 2026

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Aerial photo: Muslims perform the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri prayer at Baiturrahman Grand Mosque, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Saturday (March 21, 2026). (ANTARA FOTO/AKRAMUL MUSLIM)

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Eid al-Fitr, known locally as Lebaran, is one of Indonesia’s most anticipated celebrations.

Beyond marking the end of Ramadan fasting, the holiday is steeped in traditions that have been passed down for generations and remain central to the nation’s cultural identity.

Mudik (homecoming travel)

Vehicles are seen stuck in heavy traffic on the Jakarta–Cikampek Toll Road in Karawang, West Java, Wednesday (March 18, 2026). ANTARA FOTO/Darryl Ramadhan/foc.

In the days before Eid, millions of Indonesians leave major cities to return to their hometowns.

Despite long and tiring journeys, families reunite to celebrate together. The annual travel, known as mudik, is among the largest in the world, prompting months of government preparation with extra transport services and security measures.

The Ministry of Transportation estimates 143.9 million trips will take place this year.

Takbiran

Residents carry a mosque-dome-shaped ornament during the Torch Parade and Takbiran procession in Bonggoeya, Kendari City, Southeast Sulawesi, Friday (March 20, 2026). ANTARA FOTO/Andry Denisah/agr

On the eve of Eid, mosques resound with prayers while streets fill with parades, drum performances, and fireworks. This tradition, called takbiran, symbolizes joy and gratitude at the close of Ramadan.

Eid prayer

Muslims perform the Eid al-Fitr prayer at Sunda Kelapa Port, Jakarta, Saturday (April 22, 2023). (ANTARA FOTO/FAUZAN)

On Eid morning, Muslims gather in mosques and public squares for the Shalat Idul Fitri. In Jakarta, the Istiqlal Mosque—Indonesia’s largest—can accommodate up to 200,000 worshippers.

Halal bihalal

Disaster survivors shake hands after performing the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri prayer in Agusen Village, Blangkejeren, Gayo Lues, Aceh, Saturday (March 21, 2026). ANTARA FOTO/Muhammad Adimaja/nym.

One of the most cherished traditions is halal bihalal, when families and communities exchange greetings, shake hands, and seek forgiveness.

The phrase "Mohon maaf lahir dan batin” (“I seek forgiveness from the heart and soul”) is widely shared, reinforcing reconciliation and social harmony.

Festive dishes

A trader sells ketupat (rice cake) wrappers at a traditional market in Lhokseumawe, Aceh, Thursday (March 19, 2026). ANTARA FOTO/Rahmad/wsj. (ANTARA FOTO/RAHMAD)

Food plays a central role in Eid. Ketupat (rice cakes wrapped in coconut leaves) is served with dishes such as opor ayam (chicken in coconut milk) and rendang.

Preparing these meals together is a moment of family bonding, while ketupat itself symbolizes gratitude and forgiveness.

THR (Eid allowance)

Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR) is a special allowance given by employers and family members. Children eagerly await envelopes filled with new banknotes, often decorated to make the moment festive.

New clothes and shopping

Buying new outfits is another hallmark of Eid. With Lebaran discounts across malls and bazaars, shopping becomes part of the celebration. Traditional attire includes baju koko for men and gamis for women, often in pastel shades and coordinated family sets.

Grave visits

Residents perform grave visits during Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri at Wanasari Muslim Cemetery, Denpasar, Bali, Saturday (March 21, 2026). (ANTARA FOTO/FIKRI YUSUF)

Many Indonesians also visit the graves of ancestors before or after Eid, cleaning the sites, scattering flower petals, and offering prayers. This tradition reflects remembrance and respect for those who came before.

Lebaran in Indonesia is more than a religious observance—it is a cultural and social phenomenon.

Celebrated with enthusiasm across the archipelago, it embodies renewal, joy, and unity. As millions gather in mosques, share meals, and journey home, Lebaran remains a powerful testament to Indonesia’s enduring faith, family ties, and communal spirit.