Rembang Sea Thanksgiving Festival: Coastal Communities Tradition

Rembang has an annual tradition festival which is held a week after Eid al Fitr called Sedekah Laut (Sea Thanksgiving). In previous years various events were held. Sadly, in 2020 some events couldn't be held due to government appeal to avoid crowds in this current pandemic situation.

           One of the events that are still being held is the Larung Sesaji. Of course, it was different unlike how the event in previous years used to be held. Although it was held briefly, locals were still enthusiastically watching. Also the snacks and toys sellers who were still selling their merchants.

The Larung Sesaji was held from 8:00 am until 9:00 am. First, ritual offerings placed on a miniature boat then carried to the sea by the locals.

           After the Larung Sesaji event ended, locals left the location. In the coastal area of ​​Tasikagung Village, two areas for climbing the greasy pole have been set up. At the top also hang the clothes which are usually used as a prize, but the greasy pole climbing event wasn't actually carried out, it's set up only for symbols.

           Sea Thanksgiving was held by implementing health protocols. The day before Sea Thanksgiving, there was another event that was being held which is also part of the Sea Thanksgiving festival series, the Barongan. It was only accompanied by a few community leaders. The Barongan circled around to the local area. Meanwhile, yesterday's Sea Thanksgiving was only a thanksgiving followed by the Larung Sesaji.

The head of the Association, Mina Barokah Kadromi conveyed that this year's activities were not as busy as last year's, because they only carried out traditional activities which were considered hereditary tradition. She said the community itself could not unhold the event. This tradition has become a belief of residents.

           Beside the Larung Sesaji, Rembang also has another event that is also held after Eid al Fitr namely the Gebyar Syawalan. Usually, it is held at the Kartini Beach Recreation Park, Rembang. The agenda preparations usually have been prepared since the beginning of the fast (Ramadhan). Starting from rides, merchants mapping, all have been prepared. Last year, 200 seasonal merchandise sellers registered to occupy the TRPK. The event also will liven up with live music performances so that visitors enjoy the whole Gebyar Syawalan.

For entrance tickets, tourists only need to spend Rp. 10.000 for a visit from 7.00 am to 6.00 pm. Meanwhile, in the evening from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm, the ticket price is only Rp. 3.000. At the opening ceremony of the Gebyar Syawalan event last year, art and cultural performance were held. 

(Vachri)