Asmat is one of the most popular tribes from the land of Papua. In fact, their popularity is not only on the national level, but has reached the international one. There are many art lovers from all over the world who know the Asmat Tribe. So, no wonder many people are curious about the Asmat Cultural Festival.
This is because the culture and traditions of the Asmat Tribe are indeed very interesting. Therefore, many people come all the way to Asmat Regency just to enjoy this festival. Then, when the Asmat Cultural Festival is being held? The answer is from October 6 to 13, 2022.
Overview of the Cultural Festival of Asmat
The cultural festival of Asmat is one of the annual cultural festivals in South Papua Province. This festival has been held since 1980. This means, until 2022, it has been almost 32 years since this festival has been going on.
Originally, this was a drawing and carving competition for Asmat children. The organizers were missionaries from Europe. Then, the government gave support to make this an annual festival. It happened in the 1990s.
There are many things that you can enjoy at this cultural festival. Here are some of them!
- Woodcraft Exhibition Festival
When talking about the Asmat Tribe, then woodcrafting may be the first thing that pops into your head. This is because Asmat is one of the native tribes of Papua which is famous for its unique artworks. They carve their art on the wood. What makes it more interesting is the way they carve it with feeling.
They did not draw the design first, but immediately made the woodcraft. It is one of the factors which made Asmat woodcrafting famous. Besides having a very high artistic value, the woodcrafting also has a religious meaning. Because, in fact, the Asmat Tribe do not just carve only for aesthetics.
The Asmat artworks are also a symbolism for so many things. It is their pride, as well as a way to pay respect to their ancestors. So, seeing them do woodcrafting is one of the interesting experiences that you should not miss.
Besides, you can also learn how to woodcraft directly from the Asmat Tribe in this festival. However, you might need to pay for it. Then, you can also buy the artworks that they made by negotiating with them.
- Traditional Dances Festival
Aside from enjoying the woodcraft exhibition, you could also enjoy the various traditional dances of Papua, to be precise the Asmat Tribe. The atmosphere will be very lovely and lively. The music that accompanies the dance too is still traditional. You could see many traditional musical instruments of Papua.
- Weaving and Rowing Race Festival
Another thing you should not miss at this cultural festival is watching the weaving and rowing race. Because, basically this is one of the traditions that have existed in the land of Papua since ancient times. But of course, with an atmosphere that is more festive.
You will watch locals competing to be the best weaver and rower in the town. The boat they use is also unusual. Also, some of them decorate their boats to make it more festive.
- Fireworks Festival
Usually, at the end of the festival, there will be a fireworks festival that you can watch. It is the cherry on top that makes this cultural festival even more interesting. So, no wonder that more and more visitors come to this cultural festival every year. Because, there are so many things you could enjoy here.
You can also come to the Asmat Cultural Festival when visiting Papua, especially South Papua Regency. At this festival, you can learn about the various cultures and traditions of the Asmat Tribe. Plus, you can even take home woodcraft made by the Asmat Tribe if you are lucky enough.
