From Gawai to Lanterns: How Sarawak Celebrates Its Many Cultures

If there is one destination I always tell people they need to visit if they want to experience a place that truly knows how to throw a party, it’s Sarawak. While many travellers head to Borneo strictly for the orangutans and prehistoric rainforests, I quickly realised that the real magic happens when the communities gather to celebrate.

From massive food fairs taking over the city streets to world-class music festivals held deep in the jungle, Sarawak’s event calendar is packed with moments that turn the entire state into a buzzing cultural playground.

So, let me take you on a journey through the colourful chaos of Sarawak’s many celebrations, and trust me, you'll want to add these to your own bucket list.

Why Sarawak’s culture hits differentDuring my recent trip to Sarawak, I was completely blown away by how 34 ethnic groups live together in harmony.

 I’m talking about the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu indigenous tribes living alongside Malay, Chinese, and Melanau communities, with each group bringing their own flavours, music, and traditions to the table.

It is one of the few places in the world where I could literally witness a Chinese lion dance, an indigenous warrior dance, and a traditional Malay wedding procession all happening on the exact same street.

What really touched me was seeing how this diversity isn't just a performance for tourists; it’s genuinely baked into their daily lifestyle. You can feel how their rich history has created a social fabric that is incredibly open, welcoming, and beautifully intertwined.

Because everyone I met was so fiercely proud of their roots, they were more than happy to share their traditions with me. Being able to experience so many distinct cultures blending seamlessly in a single visit is a rare, invaluable treasure that is incredibly hard to find anywhere else in the world.

1. Chap Goh Mei Parade

Chap Goh Mei is the grand finale of Chinese New Year and a massive show of Sarawakian unity. While it celebrates Chinese traditions, the festival brings together communities from across Sarawak, making it a meaningful symbol of unity and harmony.

The streets come alive with colourful floats, rhythmic drumming, and mesmerising lion and dragon dances that weave through the cheering crowds. It’s a joyful event focused on hope and happiness for the year ahead, where everyone is invited to join the festivities. You’ll definitely want your camera ready for the vibrant costumes and the sheer energy of the performers as they light up the night.

2. Gawai Dayak

Image credit: Sarawak Tourism Board | Official Website

Happening every June, Gawai Dayak is the "Big One", the annual thanksgiving and harvest festival for Sarawak’s indigenous tribes. When I first planned my trip to Sarawak, experiencing the rich Dayak culture was at the absolute top of my list, and I quickly learned that there is no better way to witness the sheer joy and grandeur of their harvest celebration than through this grand festival. During this time, the doors of traditional longhouses are thrown wide open, inviting you to experience the famous Dayak hospitality firsthand.

You can expect plenty of tuak (traditional rice wine), ngajat dances, and the hauntingly beautiful sounds of the sape. I could see just how passionately this culture is preserved by the locals—because at the end of the day, if they don't keep these beautiful traditions alive, who will? As global travellers, I truly believe our role is to witness, remember, and deeply respect this living heritage. Don't be surprised if you're pulled into a circle to dance or offered a third serving of local delicacies; it’s all part of the unforgettable Gawai spirit!

3. Kuching Lights & Floral Festival

Image credit: Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak | Official Website

When I first watched the musical water fountain show at the Kuching Waterfront, I was already completely mesmerised by the view. But if you want something even more grand and spectacular, this festival is it. You’ll find stunning displays of flowers and creative floral arrangements, all beautifully illuminated by LED installations as evening falls.

I honestly feel like I have to return and attend this festival myself, just to bear witness to the fact that Kuching is truly a city that knows exactly how to create a vibrant, festive atmosphere. It’s a fantastic spot for a chill evening stroll, especially with the local families out enjoying the view. It’s the perfect blend of nature and modern tech, making it an absolute dream for your travel photos.

4. Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF)

Image credit: Rainforest World Music Festival | Official Website

Every year, music lovers from across the globe will descend on the Sarawak Cultural Village for this legendary event. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Santubong, the festival features everything from daytime music workshops to high-energy evening concerts.

You can learn how to play traditional instruments in the afternoon and then dance the night away to a mix of tribal rhythms and contemporary world beats. The food stalls are top-tier, and the atmosphere is incredibly inclusive, attracting everyone from backpackers to families. It’s widely considered one of the best music festivals in the world, and once you’re there, it’s easy to see why.

5. Borneo Cultural Festival

Image credit: Borneo Cultural Festival | Facebook

If you find yourself in Sibu, make sure to check out the Borneo Cultural Festival, which is basically a giant celebration, usually held every July, of everything that makes Borneo unique. The town square is divided into different cultural zones, each showcasing the music, dance, and crafts of the many communities of Sarawak.

One of the biggest draws is definitely the food, with stalls serving up authentic local dishes that you won’t easily find in restaurants. It’s a fantastic way to see the different ethnicities coming together to support local talent and share their traditions with the world. The nightly stage performances are always a hit, featuring everything from traditional martial arts to modern pop.

6. Kuching Food Festival

Image credit: Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak | Official Website (left), Sarawak Tourism Board | Official Website (right)

For the foodies, this is the main event. Running from July to August, the Kuching Food Festival features over 400 food stalls serving up every Sarawakian delicacy imaginable. As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Kuching really shows off here, with everything from local street food to crazy new food trends.

Beyond the eating, there are trade fairs, cultural concerts, and community competitions that keep the energy high every single night. It attracts over a million visitors, so expect a crowd, but the atmosphere is so electric that you won't mind the squeeze. It’s the ultimate place to see the city’s creative spirit and entrepreneurial drive in action.

7. Borneo International Kite Festival

Image credit: Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak | Official Website

Bintulu’s skies get a serious splash of colour during this international event, where kite flyers from all over the world show off their skills. You’ll see massive, oddly shaped kites performing an aerial ballet over the beach. It’s an eco-friendly festival that promotes healthy living and community spirit, making it a favourite for families.

Local entrepreneurs also get a chance to shine, with plenty of stalls selling crafts and snacks along the shoreline. It’s a peaceful yet exciting event that proves you're never too old to enjoy the simple joy of flying a kite.

8. Siniawan Country Music Festival

Image credit: Siniawan Country Music Festival 2025 | Facebook

Ever seen a cowboy in Borneo? Head to the historic Siniawan Night Market for this quirky festival where country music takes centre stage. The old wooden shophouses provide the perfect "Wild West" backdrop as local and international bands play classic country and folk tunes.

You’ll see plenty of people in hats and boots line-dancing the night away, creating a fun, laid-back vibe that’s totally unique. It’s a community-driven event that has turned this quiet heritage town into a must-visit spot for music fans. Grab some grilled meat from a street vendor, find a spot to sit, and enjoy the show.

9. WAK Festival

Image credit: @wakfestival

WAK (What About Kuching) is a month-long festival that turns the entire city into an arts hub every October. It’s driven by the community, meaning you’ll find pop-up art galleries, indie theatre, poetry slams, and secret workshops hidden in cafes and old buildings.

It’s the best time to see the city’s contemporary side and meet local artists and musicians who are shaping Sarawak’s modern identity. The festival is all about inclusivity, so most events are easy to access and very welcoming to newcomers. If you want to see what the creative youth of Kuching are up to, WAK is the place to be.

10. Kuching International Cat Festival

Image credit: Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara (DBKU) | Facebook

As a biennial event, this festival is a quirky tribute to the city’s namesake, as Kuching means “cat” in Malay. Now, as an unapologetic cat lover, I am absolutely putting this on my must-attend list for the future! I mean, seriously, when else are you going to get the chance to see cats dressed up in adorable outfits, showing off their style in a live cat parade right down the street?

Aside from the feline fashion show, you’ll find world-class cat exhibitions, expert grooming sessions, and cat-themed art scattered all around town. It’s a dream come true for animal enthusiasts and a brilliant example of how Kuching embraces its unique identity, turning it into a world-class, lighthearted tourism experience that you just can't help but smile at.

11. Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta

Image credit: Sarawak Tourism Board | Official Website

The Sarawak River becomes a high-stakes racecourse during this exciting regatta, with teams from all over the world competing for the top prize. The sound of the drums and the rhythmic splashing of the paddles create a high-energy atmosphere that draws huge crowds to the waterfront.

It’s an intense competition that showcases incredible teamwork and stamina, with various race categories to keep things interesting. Spectators can enjoy the action from the riverbank while grabbing snacks from the nearby stalls. It’s a thrilling maritime event that perfectly captures the competitive spirit and traditional roots of the region.

12. Borneo Jazz Festival

Image credit: Borneo Jazz | Facebook

Miri takes centre stage for this festival, which brings together world-class jazz musicians for a weekend of incredible fusion sounds. Organised by the Sarawak Tourism Board, it’s not just about standard jazz. You’ll hear a mix of reggae, tribal beats, and world music that keeps the crowd moving.

The festival has a great reputation for empowering the local community and providing a stage for home-grown Malaysian talent to shine alongside international stars. The coastal setting in Miri adds a relaxed, breezy vibe to the event, making it the perfect weekend getaway for music lovers. It’s a sophisticated yet fun celebration of musical innovation and cultural diversity.

13. New Year Countdown

Image credit: Jobert Enamno | Canva Pro

If you’re lucky enough to be in Sarawak at the end of the year, the New Year Countdown is the ultimate way to wrap up the year. The day is filled with community activities and family-friendly fun, leading up to a massive, star-studded concert right on the waterfront. As midnight approaches, the sky is illuminated by a breathtaking fireworks display that reflects beautifully off the Sarawak River.

I know everyone has different travel dreams and bucket lists, but because I have completely fallen head over heels in love with Kuching, I am officially making this countdown event a top item on my personal travel wishlist.

Whether you're there to drum along with the tribes at Gawai or to get lost in the enchanting sounds of the rainforest, you’ll find that the state's true beauty lies in how it brings people together.

These festivals also act as an open invitation to experience a culture that is as diverse as it is welcoming. So, if you’re ready for an adventure that’s as engaging as it is authentic, come join the party in Sarawak. We guarantee you’ll leave with a full stomach and even better stories!