Wayang Universe Festival: Classic Puppeteers' Unique Collaboration with Modern Comedians

For two days, November 7-8, 2025, the legendary Simpang Lima area of Semarang City was transformed into a giant stage for the Festival Wayang Semesta. This year's festival wasn't just about watching wayang, but also about participation and civic pride.

The Mayor of Semarang, Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti, will even take the stage in the wayang performance on the second day.

"I want to experience what it's like to be part of a story that teaches wisdom and courage. Through wayang, we learn to lead with heart and maintain harmony," she said.

With the theme "Semarang Greater, Wayang Global," this festival serves as a collaborative space across generations.

From classical wayang artists to modern comedians like Nunung and Cak Lontong, all unite to bring laughter and meaning amidst the city's pulse.

Performances by Wayang Orang Ngesti Pandawa, Wayang Sriwedari, and Teater Lingkar Semarang add to the rich variety of arts to be enjoyed.

Besides being a cultural event, this festival also brings economic blessings for local MSMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) and artists.

Dozens of stalls featuring Semarang's culinary delights, crafts, and fashion will enliven the Simpang Lima area, making it a complete package cultural and culinary tourism destination.

"What's important is that the people come, enjoy, and feel a sense of pride in their culture. That's the spirit of the Festival Wayang Semesta," Agustina said.

For tourists, this festival is the best time to experience the true face of Semarang—a city not only known for its lumpia (spring rolls), but also for its soul that loves culture.

From dusk until midnight, the glow of lights, aroma of food, and melodies of gamelan will blend to create an unforgettable experience.

Traffic Engineering

The Semarang City Government through the Transportation Agency (Dishub) has prepared traffic engineering measures to ensure this cultural celebration runs smoothly.

"For activities at Simpang Lima, the traffic diversion will be situational, so we will see what the 'traffic' is like later. The standard procedures will be implemented with the Traffic Police (Satlantas) situationally," said Danang Kurniawan, Secretary of Semarang City Dishub, in Semarang.

Residents and tourists who want to enjoy the festival need not worry about parking. Dishub has prepared several strategic parking areas.

"VIP parking is on the inner west side ring of Simpang Lima. Invited guests and the general public can park at the former E-Plaza, SMK 7, or Baiturrahman. We are also providing golf carts for guest mobility," Danang said.

If all are full, areas around the mall or Jalan Pahlawan can also be alternatives. This step ensures the cultural art activities remain orderly without disturbing the activities of surrounding residents. Danang urged the public to arrive early and follow the instructions of officers in the field. (Antara)