The city of Malacca is home to festivals that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Malaysia. Visitors will find markers of local artistry, the Buddhist calendar, Portuguese heritage and more. Malacca is proud of its heritage and celebrates for many reasons with events and festivals in the calendar, such as holidays from its past: colonial rule to modern day.
River Lights Melaka
Once polluted by trade, transport and toxic waste, the Malacca River rose from the dead after a serious cleanup. Now a valued part of the healthy ecosystem that filtrates the city and its surroundings, its life force is illuminated at River Lights Melaka. Held yearly, the festival features artistic light displays along the banks of the Melaka River. Art installations include everything from sculptures to weaving displays, various lighted fixtures, and stage performances. Contemporary displays include those by artists from around Malaysia and the Malacca region. The event regularly attracts large crowds including locals and tourists, especially on weekends. Visitors can enjoy an unusual theme each year, with new displays and attractions.
Address: Melaka River
Phone: N/A
Operating Hours:
– Daily: 7:30pm – 10:30 (during event dates)
Admission Cost:
– Free of charge
Website
Wesak Day
Considered one of the most important days in the Buddhist calendar, Wesak Day commemorates three significant days in Gautama Buddha’s life including his birthday, enlightenment and passing. Widely celebrated in the city of Malacca, the observance begins at dawn with Buddhists gathering in temples to meditate. The many Buddhist temples in Malacca will observe this holiday, with the Seck Kia Eenh Temple being the most famous. A candle procession is observed yearly, as is a parade that lasts for several hours featuring participants carrying flowers and candles amongst moving floats.
Address: Seck Kia Eenh Temple & Jonker Street
Operating Hours: N/A
Admission Cost: N/A
Website: N/A
Festa of San Pedro
Celebrated every June in the city of Malacca, the Festa San Pedro is also referred to as the Feast of Saint Peter or the Feast of Fishermen. Held in the Portuguese quarter of the city, the event begins with a religious mass that is held at the seafront followed by a procession of blessings for the fishermen’s boats. Many competing boats are decorated for the contest, where they are judged for originality, creativity and religious tones. The festival exudes a carnival-like atmosphere, including traditional games, food, beverage and live music running into the evening.
Address: Portuguese Settlement, Ujong Pasir
Phone: N/A
Operating Hours: N/A
Admission Cost:
– Free of charge
Website
