TULUNGAGUNG – World Dance Day 2026 in Tulungagung brought vibrant cultural celebrations to the city as 30 dance studios joined the “Bumi Ngrowo Mataya” festival at the Zero Kilometer Point of Tulungagung Square.
The event took place on Saturday, April 25, and was organized by the Tulungagung Culture and Tourism Office (Disbudpar). It ran from 2 p.m. until 11 p.m. and became a major stage for local artists to express and preserve traditional dance.
The theme “Bumi Ngrowo Mataya” reflected the spirit of the community in protecting local culture while continuing to develop artistic creativity. The word “Mataya” means dancing and symbolizes the ability to adapt to changing times without leaving behind cultural values.
Throughout the afternoon, dozens of dance groups performed traditional and contemporary routines. Performances included Tari Praben Prekas, Tari Laksmi, Tari Bumi Langit, and Tari Boran, which attracted strong attention from the audience.
As night came, the stage became even more lively with traditional performances such as jaranan, tayub, and the dance drama “Bentenging Katresnan,” which served as the highlight of the celebration.
Thousands of residents filled the Zero Kilometer area to watch the performances. The strong public response showed how deeply traditional arts remain connected to daily life in Tulungagung.
Acting Regent Ahmad Baharudin praised artists, organizers, and all communities that supported the event. He said dance is not only physical movement but also a lesson about harmony, teamwork, and respect.
“Dance is not only body movement, but harmony between music, movement, and the soul behind it. From there, we learn about life, togetherness, and mutual respect,” he said.
He added that the philosophy of dance reflects social life, where people must work together, support one another, and respect different roles to create a peaceful and united society.
Furthermore, the Tulungagung government plans to provide more space and facilities for young people to develop their artistic talents. This effort also honors dance teachers and parents who continue guiding children in cultural activities.
“We hope events like this can continue every year as part of preserving Javanese culture while also entertaining the public,” he added.
Meanwhile, Head of the Culture and Tourism Office M. Ardian Candra explained the deeper meaning behind the theme.
According to him, society must be able to “dance” with changing times. However, people must stay connected to nature and local wisdom.
He said dance remains an important part of Tulungagung’s cultural identity. Therefore, World Dance Day is a key moment to strengthen public awareness.
This year’s celebration involved around 30 dance studios. Participants ranged from kindergarten children to teenagers.
Their involvement also became a form of education and regeneration for future dance artists.
Officials believe regular training in local dance studios helps keep traditional performing arts alive for future generations.
“Through this event, we want to encourage Tulungagung people to become more cultured, progressive, prosperous, and happy,” Ardian said.
Notably, this year marked the first official World Dance Day celebration in Tulungagung.
The local government hopes it can grow into an annual cultural event. Officials also want it to attract more tourists in the future.
Besides supporting artists, the festival is expected to strengthen the local creative economy through cultural tourism and performances.
Through World Dance Day 2026, the Tulungagung administration invited all residents to protect and preserve dance as part of regional identity.
“We hope dance from Tulungagung will continue to thrive and become more widely known, not only nationally but also internationally,” he concluded.