From coastal cultural celebrations to major industry gatherings, we preview the key events arriving this season.
Bali International Film Festival 2026
1-7 June 2026
The upcoming 19th edition of Balinale, otherwise known as the Bali International Film Festival, is set to take place from 1–7 June 2026, with ICON Bali Mall serving as its central hub. Over nearly two decades, Balinale has grown into a formidable force within both the national and international film landscape. In 2024, it was officially recognised as Indonesia’s first and only Academy Award® Qualifying Festival, cementing its role as a gateway for local filmmakers to achieve international recognition through both fictional and documentary works.
Following years of continued growth, the 2026 programme will showcase 100 films from 35 countries, including 20 world premieres, 10 international premieres, and 26 Asian premieres. These screenings span categories such as Short Narrative, Narrative Feature, Short Documentary, Documentary Feature, and Short Animation. Beyond the screenings, the festival’s expansive line-up includes the Bali Film Forum at The Meru Sanur, an OceanX screening hosted by Bali Ocean Days, Awards Night celebrations, and an Open Air Closing Event. Through this dynamic programme, Balinale continues to champion cinematic arts by fostering conversation, international exchange, and shared public experiences.
Tanah Lot Art and Food Festival
August 2026
Held in the culturally rich region of Tabanan, the Tanah Lot Art and Food Festival is a lively celebration of Balinese heritage, combining traditional arts with a diverse culinary showcase. Centred around the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, the festival attracts both locals and visitors eager to experience the island’s cultural depth. A wide array of food stalls offers regional specialities, street food favourites, and contemporary interpretations of Indonesian cuisine, reflecting the diversity of local flavours.
Beyond gastronomy, the event features traditional dance performances, music, and artisan displays, providing insight into Bali’s longstanding artistic traditions. The festival atmosphere is both festive and educational, encouraging engagement with local customs and craftsmanship. As a cultural highlight in Bali’s annual calendar, the event presents an experience shaped by heritage, with a clear focus on local identity and cultural continuity.
IG: @tanahlotid
Nusantara Food & Hotel 2026
9–12 July 2026
Nusantara Food & Hotel (NFH) Series 2026 is a premier trade event designed to accelerate the growth of Indonesia’s hospitality and F&B sectors. Following the success of the 2025 expo, which drew over 20,000 visitors, this series acts as a critical bridge between industry innovation and commercial networking. It provides a comprehensive platform for brands to showcase products, explore emerging trends, and secure strategic partnerships. The 2026 edition expands its reach through a dual-city format.
The first event takes place at ICE BSD City from 9–12 July 2026, followed by a second instalment at Grand City Convex in Surabaya from 17–20 September 2026. This expansion targets the burgeoning market in East Indonesia, where the demand for hotel and restaurant services continues to rise. Beyond the exhibition, the series hosts elite programmes like the Nusantara Culinary Challenge and the Indonesia Coffee Competition. These collaborations with ACP and SCAI allow professionals to demonstrate technical mastery in culinary arts and barista skills.
(nusantarafoodhotel.com)
IG: @nusantarafoodhotel
Indonesia Seafood Expo 2026
17-21 June 2026
Highlighting Indonesia’s standing as a global leader in marine biodiversity and sustainable fisheries, the Indonesia Seafood Expo 2026 showcases a sector supported by over 46 accredited laboratories. These facilities ensure strict food safety standards, cementing a global reputation for premium quality. The event serves as a platform for the “Indonesia Gives You More” initiative, positioning the country as a leader for both raw and value-added fishery products.
The exhibition reflects a “Naturally Diverse” character, ranging from fresh catches to unique traditional recipes. Producers operate under the “Safe and Sustainable” principle, balancing high-volume output with resource conservation and worker welfare. This ensures the industry remains a reliable pillar for global nutrition, fulfilling the mission to feed the nation and the world.
For international buyers and local professionals, the expo provides a “One Stop Shopping” destination. It offers direct access to a trusted network of suppliers dedicated to responsible sourcing. By uniting traditional expertise with modern innovation, the event strengthens Indonesia’s role in the global seafood supply chain.
Exquisite Taste Volume 51
