Just like any country, Indonesia has a number of official holidays recognised by the government. These are known as public holidays in Indonesia, and because they are marked in red on calendars, locals often refer to them as “red dates”.
In 2026, there are 17 national public holidays in Indonesia. For travellers, these dates are important as they often create peak travel periods, especially in popular destinations like Lombok.
School holidays and peak travel periods
Indonesia has two main school holiday periods each year, and these often overlap with major celebrations.
The first holiday period usually coincides with Eid al-Fitr (Idul Fitri), one of the most important celebrations in Indonesia. During this time, many Indonesians take part in “pulang kampung”, meaning they return to their hometowns.
This results in:
- Busy domestic flights
- Heavy traffic on major roads
- Increased demand for accommodation
The second major holiday period takes place around Christmas and New Year in Lombok, when both domestic and international tourism peaks in Lombok and Bali.
Islamic holidays in Lombok
Lombok is often called the “island of a thousand mosques” and has a predominantly Muslim population. Because of this, Islamic holidays are widely celebrated, even when they are not all official public holidays.
Important dates in 2026 include:
- Isra Mi’raj
- Start of Ramadan
- Eid al-Fitr
- Eid al-Adha
- Islamic New Year
- Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad
During these periods, you may experience:
- Cultural events and local celebrations
- Special food markets before sunset during Ramadan
- Quieter beaches and tourist areas during fasting hours
Overview of Indonesian public holidays 2026
Here is a general overview of the main Indonesia public holidays in 2026 (dates may vary slightly depending on lunar calendars):
- 1 January: New Year’s Day
- Isra Mi’raj of the Prophet Muhammad
- Chinese New Year
- Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence)
- Good Friday
- Easter Sunday
- Eid al-Fitr
- International Workers’ Day
- Ascension Day
- Vesak Day
- Pancasila Day
- Eid al-Adha
- Islamic New Year
- Indonesian Independence Day (17 August)
- Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad
- Christmas Day
These public holidays often create long weekends, making them popular travel periods within Indonesia.
Best time to visit Lombok
Understanding Indonesia public holidays helps you decide the best time to visit Lombok.
Dry season (March to October)
- Sunny weather
- Ideal for beach days and island hopping
- Best for sailing and snorkelling
Wet season (November to May)
- Lush green landscapes
- Fewer tourists
- Best conditions for surfing
If you want to see Lombok at its most vibrant and green, consider visiting at the start or end of the rainy season.
Visiting Lombok during holidays
Travelling during public holidays can be a unique experience.
For example:
- During Ramadan, Lombok feels more cultural and relaxed
- During Christmas and New Year, the island becomes lively and festive
- During Eid al-Fitr, you can experience traditional celebrations and local customs
While these periods can be busier, they also offer a deeper insight into Indonesian culture.
You can visit Lombok all year round
Lombok is a destination that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Each season offers something different, whether it is surfing, nature, or cultural experiences. Be it Christmas in Lombok or Idul Fitri. The main thing to consider is availability. During peak periods such as public holidays, it can be more difficult to find last-minute accommodation.
For a more relaxed and comfortable stay, booking in advance at Amazing Lombok Resort is highly recommended. The resort offers a peaceful setting close to nature, making it ideal both during busy seasons and quieter periods.
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Last updated on: 08 June 2026