Traditional Torch Parade Lights Up 4-Kilometer Route in Jepara Ahead of Eid al-Adha

JEPARA — Hundreds of glowing bamboo torches lit up the streets of Bandungrejo Village, Kalinyamatan District, Jepara, Central Java, during the annual “Festival Oncor Kalinyamatan” on Tuesday (26/5) night.

Creating a spectacular cultural celebration ahead of Eid al-Adha, Wednesday (27/5).

The four-kilometer torch parade transformed the village into a sea of fire and takbir chants as thousands of residents, gathered to witness one of Jepara’s most enduring Islamic cultural traditions.

Rows of traditional oncor torches, made from bamboo and cloth, flickered throughout the procession while the sound of takbir, echoed from mosque loudspeakers and mobile sound systems carried by each participant group.

Children marched alongside their parents, while dozens of participants, carried colorful miniatures and decorative displays.

Among the most eye-catching were miniature mosques, musholla replicas, Islamic gates, Kaaba-inspired ornaments, crescent moon decorations, sacrificial animal figures, or giant torch structures shaped like mosque domes and Arabic calligraphy of the word 'Allah.'

The combination of firelight, religious chants, and creative Islamic-themed displays created a festive atmosphere that blended spirituality, local wisdom, and artistic expression.

Acting Village Head of Bandungrejo, Suryanto, said the Festival Oncor Kalinyamatan has been preserved for nearly four decades and continues to grow every year.

“In the beginning, people simply carried traditional torches around the village. Today, the festival has developed with more creativity and modern artistic elements, including mosque miniatures, decorative gates, musholla replicas, and sacrificial animal mascots,” he said.

This year, at least 15 participant groups from 13 hamlets joined the annual takbir parade. Marching together around the village in a religious procession spanning approximately four kilometers.