One of the major events that take place in the tourist destination of Bali is the Galungan. This is basically a feast event which is celebrated in commemorating the victory of good over evil and is the most important event in the Balinese Hindu calendar. At this event, the Ida Sang Hyang Widi, the creator of the universe is honoured and symbolizes the victory of Dharma over Adharma.

It is also an event whereby the local Balinese people are encouraged and educated to show their gratitude to Ida Sang Hyang Widi and their ancestors. It takes place on the 210th day of the Balinese calendar where it is believed that this is the time when the spirits of the ancestors would return to visit them. The rituals are performed as a form of welcoming them back as well as entertainment for them during their ‘visit’.

Balinese families will make offerings to the spirits by placing food and lowers on their compounds while some are also offered to the local temples. Penjors, which are tall bamboo poles are put out around the island. These poles are placed with flowers, fruits and coconut leaves and then placed around the front gate of the homes.

As this is a major event around the island, preparations are very intense and it starts a few days before the actual day. The Penyekeban is when huge clay pots are used to cover green bananas to expedite their ripening. This takes place 3 days before the Galungan. And then comes Penyajahan when the Jaja cakes are made which will be eaten during the feast.

Penampahan takes place a day before the Galungan where sacrificial animals are slaughtered and then offered to the temples. On the actual day, the locals will head out to the temples where they will make offerings and pray to the spirits. There will be local food almost at every juncture of the island and the day after that, it is time for fellowship where they visit their friends and families. The Kuningan takes place 10 days after the vent where yellow rice is offered. This is the day that is believed where the spirits return to heaven. The next Galungan is expected to take place on 1 to 11 February, 2012.