Thousands of People Crowd Jakarta's 498th Anniversary Celebration in Kota Tua
Reported by Aldi Geri Lumban Tobing | Translated by Nugroho Adibrata
The Jakarta's 498th anniversary celebration titled 'One City, Many Worlds' at Fatahillah Park, in the Kota Tua area, went lively on Saturday night (6/21).
The atmosphere is lively, but orderly, and the music is really exciting
Thousands of visitors flocked to the location since the afternoon, enjoying the melodies from performers of various genres, ranging from pop, koplo, to traditional music that blended on one grand stage.
The atmosphere became more vibrant as night falls. Colorful stage lights illuminate the classic architecture of Jakarta History Museum, creating a stunning visual combination.
Dewa 19 Pulls Nostalgic Heart Strings in Jakarta E-Prix Race EventAs the music echoed, the visitors danced, cheered, and captured the moment with their phones. This celebration became a fun alternative weekend getaway for Jakartans, as well as a means to strengthen their love for their city.
For two consecutive nights, visitors were treated to performances by renowned artists, namely Fajar Noor, Feel Koplo, Asteriska, The Cottons, Rio Hijau Daun (DrummerUnic), Tabuhan Nusantara, Bang Kojek, Om PMS, Wulan KDI, and a collaboration between Gambang Kromong with Kicuy Aduy & Benang Kenur.
They will perform in turns to bring the atmosphere of the Kota Tua to life with a dynamic rhythm that invites applause and shouts from the audience.
One of the visitors from Cipulir, Kebayoran Lama, South Jakarta, Faisal (29) admitted, he enjoyed the event. The Kota Tua felt more alive at night.
"The atmosphere is lively, but orderly, and the music is really exciting. I'm very happy to watch a music performance from various genres on one stage. This shouldn't be missed for Jakarta people," he expressed, at the location.
He hoped that Jakarta, at its 498 year, would become more humane, greener, and that its public facilities would continue to improve.
"It doesn't feel like it's almost 500 years. I hope the celebration can be more magnificent and advanced, and reach all layers of Jakarta people," he added.
Previously, Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Agency (Parekraf) Head, Andhika Permata, stated that this event is presented as a form of open entertainment for Jakartans and its surroundings to celebrate the spirit of togetherness and cultural diversity that is the identity of the city of Jakarta.
He explained, the historic area of Kota Tua had been transformed into a vibrant public space featuring a series of Jakarta Art installations, showcasing a blend of visual arts and music performances across genres.
"With the concept of 'One City, Many Worlds', this event depicts Jakarta as a city that accommodates various worlds in one space; the worlds of music, art, culture, and the diverse expressions of urban society that remain united," he expressed.
Besides entertainment, this attraction serves as a moment to celebrate Jakarta's long journey with the community that plays an important role in every step of its development.
"Through art, music, and cultural performances, this celebration becomes a lively space for expression and celebration, reflecting the spirit of a dynamic, diverse, and inclusive city," he said.