229 cannons light up Pontianak’s riverbanks in unique Eid tradition
Pontianak, Thekabarnews.com—People in Pontianak participated in a long-standing cultural custom that celebrated the conclusion of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr. The thundering sounds of...
Pontianak, Thekabarnews.com—People in Pontianak participated in a long-standing cultural custom that celebrated the conclusion of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr. The thundering sounds of carbide cannons flooded the shores of the Kapuas River once more.
Organizers fired seven carbide cannons on Thursday night, March 19, 2026, to mark the opening of the Carbide Cannon Exhibition in Southeast Pontianak. People come from far and wide to observe the big explosions. These explosions constantly happen at neighborhood parties.
Muslims exhibit their happiness and thanks as they prepare to celebrate Eid. This holiday has been important in villages near the Kapuas River for a long time.
The Pontianak mayor, Edi Rusdi Kamtono, said that this year’s event was crucial. However, there were disagreements on when 1 Shawwal 1447 Hijri should occur.
“We are delighted to welcome the return of the Carbide Cannon Exhibition tonight. The sound of these guns going off reflects how joyful our community is to greet the day of victory,” he said.
The carbide cannon tradition is more than simply a spectacle. In 2016, Indonesia’s Ministry of Education and Culture formally classified it as “intangible cultural heritage.”
The mayor noted that the custom is a positive example of how people in the neighborhood can get along and work together.
“This custom is all about assisting each other and being together. Groups may compete with each other, but they still value kinship and togetherness,” Edi Kamtono added.
Along the banks of the river this year, there were 229 carbide cannons of varying sizes. Some of the guns are more than 80 centimeters broad. Craftsmen built them from carefully selected wood. Additionally, to keep in good shape, they need a lot of attention.
The local administration wants the custom to be a giant draw for tourists from all around the world. Officials think that the unique combination of cultural history, community involvement, and sensory overload makes it an ideal site for cultural tourism.
People from other parts of Indonesia have already started to notice the occurrence. Many are expressing interest in attending and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere firsthand. A content producer from Tanjung Pinang said they enjoyed the event.
“This occasion is the first time I have seen it in person. The atmosphere is fantastic—it is not just the music but also the strong sense of community,” the visitor added.
The carbide cannon tradition clearly shows how local culture brings people together and attracts wider interest. Pontianak wants to keep the tradition going and let people know about it.
No Comment! Be the first one.