Indonesia is the country with the largest Muslim population in the world. About 87% of the total population is registered as Muslims. And that's why maybe you've thought about what Christmas in Indonesia looks like.
Does Indonesia celebrate Christmas?
The answer is yes. Christmas is a religious commemoration which is designated as a national holiday, as a Christmas holiday. And in several cities, the celebration of Christmas in Indonesia is quite obvious. If you ever wish to experience the sensation of an exotic Christmas without snow, Indonesia is an amazing option.
Is it worth visiting Lombok in December?
December is a holiday month. Not only in general, but also in Indonesia. So, it's definitely worth it to visit Lombok in December. The island is prepared for a surge in tourists with more flights and extras for cruise ships.
Often you will find special promotions like discounts, tour packages, and additional facilities. You can check out the social media accounts like Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on these promotions.
Religion in Indonesia
Even though the majority of the population is Muslim, other religions can still be found all over Indonesia. But this distribution is not even. As you might know, Bali is a Hindu island, Papua has a Christian majority and there’s more.
Christmas celebrations in Indonesia
As a celebration of Christmas in Indonesia, several regions have unique traditions. In Yogyakarta, you can see the story of Jesus' birth, played by wayang kulit (shadow puppet). The priests who lead the worship will wear a typical Yogyakarta traditional costume.
Or in North Sumatra, the Batak tribe of people hold Marbinda. It is a celebration of eating together with family and neighbours. The celebration starts with buying a cow, buffalo or pig, slaughtering it and then cooking it together.
Or in Papua, Indonesia's Christmas island, which has a tradition of stone burning. It’s a tradition of cooking using stones that are heated by burning them. They are piled up around the meat to cook it.
Christmas in Lombok
Celebrating Christmas in Lombok is a great idea too. Although the majority religion on the island is Islam. Lombok has a community of foreigners who live on the island and hold celebrations that you can join.
For example, in 2017, a tree planting was held to celebrate Christmas. Furthermore, various hotels and restaurants have special Christmas packages and events.
For those of you who celebrate Christmas by going to church, don’t worry. Lombok has lots of churches for Protestants, Christians and Catholics. Christmas Eve Mass and Christmas Morning Mass will be strictly guarded with police officers to secure and discipline the mass.
Last year, several resorts, hotels, restaurants and even bars in Lombok had many events for celebrating Christmas in Indonesia.
- Gift exchange events,
- Making and decorating Christmas trees,
- Special package bundles,
- Special Christmas seasonal dishes.
How to celebrate Christmas 2023 in Lombok?
This year, you can celebrate Christmas thanks to several events. These are the 5 festivities that we recommend. No matter if you believe it or not.
1. Local festivals
Every year the government organises several events to enliven the month of December. It's simply perfect to enjoy Christmas in Indonesia by uniting with other cultures. To find out updates about local festivals or events, you can search on social media with the keywords: Lombok Event or Explore Lombok.
2. Watch local church drama
Several large Catholic churches in Lombok every year present 'birth dramas' as well as the crucifixion of Jesus. It sounds classic, but the touch of Indonesian culture will add to your exotic Christmas.
3. Take a Christmas family photo
You can go to one of the self photo studios. Or try something that is more anti-mainstream. Go to a tourist village, rent traditional Lombok clothes there and take photos in a traditional house. You have unique pictures, plus you learn more about Lombok while doing it.
4. Opt for a holiday game night
If there is no event you want to go to, make one yourself! When you stay at Amazing Lombok Resort, for instance in the superior room, you can ask us about our board game collection. We’ll gladly organise a special game night with Christmas prizes.
5. Shop for exotic Christmas gifts
You can go to an art market or tourist village and shop for Christmas gifts. Don’t forget to wrap them in paper or add postcards for Indonesian nuances that your family at home will surely enjoy.
And these are just some of the Indonesian Christmas activities you can choose from. Some of them can only be done in Lombok. Pretty sure they will make your friends and family jealous when they see you enjoy an exotic Christmas here in Lombok.
Choose to relax for Christmas
However, if you want to spend a slightly quieter Indonesian Christmas, just with your partner, family, or friends, this is also a great choice. You can opt for a staycation. For example at Amazing Lombok Resort, you can spend your Christmas in Indonesia by the pool.
Or just relax on the beach which is 5 minutes away. You also don't need to go anywhere to eat because we have a restaurant with an international menu. You can even try new dishes and desserts every day of your Christmas holiday in Indonesia.
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Last updated on: 08 May 2026