Bali hosts many ceremonies and festivals throughout the year. Below you will find some to look out for during your stay.

Galungan
Twice a year, dates vary according to the Hindu calendar
On these special dates, the Balinese celebrate the victory of good over evil.  Festivities take place in every village, with Barong creatures (mythical lion-dogs) dancing from temple to temple. The people of Bali rejoice with feasts and family gatherings.

Kuningam
Twice a year, 10 days after Galungan
The culmination of the Galungan festival, Kuningam is a time for the Balinese to thank the gods and wish them farewell as they ascend back to the heavens.

Nyepi - The Day of Silence
End of March or early April, dependent on the Hindu calendar
The start of the Balinese New Year brings a day of complete inactivity.  Lights are turned off and no one leaves their home. The aim is to trick evil spirits into believing that Bali is uninhabited.

However, the night before Nyepi the streets are alight with festivities.  Papier-mâché effigies parade the streets casting away evil spirits. These Ogoh-ogoh figures are then burned and much revelry ensues. 

Bali Arts Festival
Mid June to Mid July, Denpasar
This festival brings together all aspects of Balinese culture. Traditional dance, exhibitions of handicrafts and music all feature. The festival is the main event of the year, and competition is fierce among the dance groups who travel from all over Bali to take part. 

Kuta Karnival
Late September and early October
A week long festival including almost non-stop dancing, music and celebrations, alongside kite-flying contests and beach sport tournaments.

Ubud Writers and Readers Festival
October
Renowned writers and poets gather for stimulating discussion and poetry readings.