Indonesia Promotes Borobudur to Labuan Bajo at Asia Pacific New Year Celebration 2026.

At least 47 Asia-Pacific countries participated in The Asia Pacific New Year Celebration 2026. Indonesia utilized this event to promote premier tourism destinations through an immersive experience.

Under the iconic vast dome of Tacoma Dome in Washington state, the pulse of Asia-Pacific beat through colors, sounds, and aromas, showcasing cultural diversity in a unified celebration.

Indonesia's participation went beyond being a mere participant, serving as a narrator introducing the stories of the archipelago. 

Before over 15 thousand visitors, mostly United States citizens, Indonesia presented arts and traditions—blending dance performances, traditional cuisine, and promotion of premier tourism destinations into one immersive experience.

Indonesia's involvement was realized through collaboration between the Consulate General of Indonesia in San Francisco, Indonesian Cultural Association Tacoma, and Seattle-Surabaya Sister City Association.

“Culture isn't just preserved in museums, but shared through music, movement, flavors, stories, and direct encounters as neighbors, friends, and a community," stated Consul General of Indonesia in San Francisco Yohpy Ichsan Wardana in the KJRI San Francisco press release on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

From Warm Bajigur to Five Priority Destinations

At culinary booths, the aroma of West Java’s signature wedang bajigur steamed through Tacoma’s winter air. The warm drink introduced visitors to the Indang and Baralek Gadang dances from West Sumatra, and Bajidor Kahot from West Java.

At tourism booths, KJRI San Francisco partnered with Singapore Airlines and Majestic Vacations to promote five priority destinations: Borobudur, Lake Toba, Mandalika, Labuan Bajo, and Likupang.

These locations were presented not as points on a map, but as experiences: witnessing sunrise among Borobudur’s stupas, traversing Lake Toba’s ancient caldera, enjoying Mandalika’s coastlines, sailing through Labuan Bajo’s island clusters, and discovering Likupang’s marine charm.

"In an increasingly divided world, such events are vital to build understanding, foster trust, and remind us that diversity isn’t a challenge to manage—but a strength to celebrate," said Yohpy.

At the event’s conclusion, Indonesia was named host of the 29th Asia Pacific New Year Celebration in 2027. 

This designation marks a milestone for strengthening diaspora roles and Indonesian Cultural diplomacy in the western United States.

The event is a flagship program by the Asia Pacific Cultural Center, now in its 28th year, uniting Asia-Pacific communities through cross-cultural friendship and mutual understanding.