Langkawi sees many festivals pass every year, including those revisiting religious, cultural and historical events. An assortment of events and festivals for visitors pay respects to the island’s unbreakable bond with nature as well as various art and food festivals held throughout the year. Perfect for those traveling with children, a trip to Malaysia during festival season guarantees exposure to some of Malaysia’s most special ceremonies and celebrations.
Pongal Festival
Held every year in mid-January, the Pongal Festival is a Hindu celebration designed to mark the annual rice harvest. Traditionally held over four days, the festival’s name in Tamil means “to boil” and is celebrated as a way of giving thanks for the recent harvest. The first day of the festival is referred to as “Bhogi Pongal” and involved the bringing of rice and sugarcane in from the fields. The second day, “Surya Pongal” celebrates the Sun God. “Mattu Pongal” on the third day includes worship of Lord Ganesha and Parvati. The fourth and final day, “Kaanum Pongal”, celebrates new friendships. Langkawi’s largest gathering for the festival occurs at the Laman Padi Langkawi (rice garden and museum).
Address: Jalan Pantai Cenang, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Phone: +604 – 955 1118
Operating Hours:
Open Daily:
– 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission Cost:
– Free of charge
Website (not official)
Langkawi International Festival of Art
Marked at multiple times throughout each year, this arts celebration lasts for up to one week of festivities. Held across numerous venues, the festival includes artwork such as paintings, drawings, sculptures, and 3D installations that reveal local, regional and international talent. Its support is far reaching from Art Malaysia to the Langkawi Development Authority, to the Ibrahim Hussein Museum and Cultural Foundation. In addition to Malay artists, participants represent Japan, Europe, Africa and pan-Asia.
Address: Langkawi Development Authority, Kompleks LADA, Peti Surat 60, Jalan Persiaran Putra, Kedah, 07000 Langkawi
Phone: +604 – 966 7186
Operating Hours: N/A
Admission Cost: N/A
Website (not official)
Langkawi Geopark Carnival
The Langkawi Geopark Carnival is held late May and early June every year. Over several weeks, the carnival is held at the Langkawi Geopark in conjunction with the Langkawi Development Authority. The event focuses on sustainable tourism and pressing social issues. An art market and cultural performances provide most of the entertainment. Other events include endurance challenges, sustainability projects, various site cleanups and programs for children. Attended by locals and visitors alike, the carnival began as a 3-day affair but due to its popularity, has claimed the entire month of June.
Address: LADA Complex, PO Box 60, Jalan Persiaran Putra, 07000, Langkawi
Phone: +604 – 960 0600
Operating Hours: N/A
Admission Cost:
– Varies based on activities
Website
