Festivals in Malaysia

 Welcome to mesmerising Malaysia with its alluring potpourri of fascinating cultures, languages, religions and cuisine.  Centuries of cultural and social integration and interaction between the Malays, Chinese, Indians and the indigenous  Kadazan, Dusun, Ibans and other ethnic communities, have resulted in a colourful melting pot of races living together in  harmony. There's never a dull moment as Malaysians come together to celebrate the myriad of festivals, traditions and  cultural activities throughout the year. Renowned for their hospitality, Malaysians eagerly share their festive joy with friends  and visitors alike. For an eventful time, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.

Date	Event	Description
Oct 24-Nov 22, 2006	Hari Raya Aidilfitri	The end of the fasting period or the holy month of ramadhan culminates in Hari Raya Aidilfitri which is celebrated by Muslims around the world. Malaysian Muslims begin their day with visits to the graves of loved ones, followed by prayers and the seeking of forgiveness from their elders. Relatives and friends are invited to the many 'open houses', where they are served with a generous spread of food and traditional delicacies. Venue: Throughout Malaysia
Dec 25, 2006	Christmas	Our tropical weather and the friendly nature of Malaysians guarantee that Christmas in multi-cultural Malaysia will always be a very warm affair. Like others around the world, Malaysian Christians attend church services, hold family dinners, sing carols and exchange gifts. Visitors will find the spirit of Christmas very much alive at the many Christian homes as well as the myriad shopping centres, hotels and restaurants catering for this joyous occasion. Venue: Throughout Malaysia
Feb 1, 2007	Federal Territory Day	This day of penance and thanksgiving for Hindu devotees is held in honour of Lord Muruga or Lord Subramaniam. The festival is best experienced in Kuala Lumpur where the deity's jeweled chariot is led in a mass procession through the streets of the city, culminating at the Batu Caves in Selangor. An unforgettable sight is the thousands of devotees in a trance-like state carrying body-piercing kavadis or ornate frames. Thaipusam is celebrated on a big scale in Selangor, Penang, Melaka, Johor and Perak. Venue: Selangor, Penang, Melaka, Johor and Perak
Feb 1, 2007	Thaipusam	This day of penance and thanksgiving for Hindu devotees is held in honour of Lord Muruga or Lord Subramaniam. The festival is best experienced in Kuala Lumpur where the deity's jeweled chariot is led in a mass procession through the streets of the city, culminating at the Batu Caves in Selangor. An unforgettable sight is the thousands of devotees in a trance-like state carrying body-piercing kavadis or ornate frames. Thaipusam is celebrated on a big scale in Selangor, Penang, Melaka, Johor and Perak. Venue: Selangor, Penang, Melaka, Johor and Perak
Feb 18, 2007	Chinese New Year	Chinese New Year marks the first day of the lunar calendar and is celebrated over a 15-day period. Mandarin oranges and plum blossom stalks are used as decorations in Chinese homes and shopping complexes for prosperity and good luck. Animated lion and dragon dance performances accompanied by energetic drums, gongs and cymbals add to the festive air. On Chinese New Year's eve, family members hold reunion dinners followed by 'open houses' for relatives and friends. Venue: Throughout Malaysia
May 30-31, 2007	Tadau Kaamatan	The Tadau Kaamatan or harvest festival is celebrated by Sabah's largest ethnic group, the KadazanDusun. Thanksgiving gatherings are held in honour of Bambaazon, the spirit of the paddy for a good harvest. Highlights of the celebrations include the drinking of rice wine or tuak, delicious ethnic cuisine, traditional dances, a Harvest Queen beauty pageant, buffalo racing and traditional merry-making. Venue: Sabah
June 1-2, 2007	Gawai Dayak	Gawai Dayak is celebrated by the Ibans, Orang Ulu and Bidayuh of Sarawak in early June to mark the rice-harvesting season. This enchanting festival sees traditional ceremonies and dances held in the various 'long houses' or communal homes all over Sarawak. Relatives and visitors are served rice wine or tuak and chicken cooked in bamboo as well as other traditional delicacies at the many 'open houses'. Venue: Sarawak
July 14, 2007	The Birthday of His Majesty The Yang di-Pertuan Agong	As a constitutional monarchy, are nation celebrates the official birthday of His Majesty, the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong (the King of Malaysia) on July 14, 2007. This auspicious occasion is marked by the bestowal of state honours and awards to those who have rendered exceptional service to the country. Highlights include the “Trooping of the Colours” by the armed forces and a host of cultural shows and exhibitions. Venue: Kuala Lumpur
Aug 31 , 2007	Merdeka Day Celebration	August 31, 2007 commemorates Malaysia's 50th year of independence. This historic event is celebrated in joyous mood by Malaysians from all walks of life over a one-month period. Malaysians display their love for the country by proudly flying Jalur Gemilang or the national flag. A host of activities is held in each state including parades, exhibitions of Malaysia's history and fireworks displays, culminating in a grand parade attended by their Majesties, the King and Queen, the Prime Minister, dignitaries and the public. Venue: Throughout Malaysia
Sept 12-Oct 12, 2007	Bazaar Ramadhan	The Bazaar Ramadhan is an interesting scene in Malaysia coinciding with the Muslim fasting month. During this season, numerous colourful and aromatic roadside stalls can be found in Kuala Lumpur and elsewhere offering a delightful array of traditional Malay dishes and delicacies for the breaking of the daily fast. Non-Muslims also take the opportunity to sample the variety of food available. Venue: Throughout Malaysia
Sept 25 , 2007	Mid-Autumn Festival	The Mid-Autumn Festival also known as the Moon Cake Festival had its origins during a time of war and oppression in 4th century China. Today, the event provides an opportunity for Malaysian children of all races to participate in colourful lantern competitions and processions in a spirit of unity and goodwill. Sample the variety of delicious moon cakes available during this season. Venue: Throughout Malaysia
Nov 8 , 2007	Deepavali	The triumph of good over evil is celebrated by Hindus as they observe Deepavali or the Festival of Lights in the seventh month of the Hindu calendar. Throughout the country, prayers of thanksgiving and cleansing rituals take place at temples and household altars. Venue: Throughout Malaysia
Oct 27-Nov 26, 2007	Hari Raya Aidilfitri	The end of the fasting period or the holy month of ramadhan culminates in Hari Raya Aidilfitri which is celebrated by Muslims around the world. Malaysian Muslims begin their day with visits to the graves of loved ones, followed by prayers and the seeking of forgiveness from their elders. Relatives and friends are invited to the many 'open houses', where they are served with a generous spread of food and traditional delicacies. Venue: Throughout Malaysia
Dec 25, 2007	Christmas	Our tropical weather and the friendly nature of Malaysians guarantee that Christmas in multi-cultural Malaysia will always be a very warm affair. Like others around the world, Malaysian Christians attend church services, hold family dinners, sing carols and exchange gifts. Visitors will find the spirit of Christmas very much alive at the many Christian homes as well as the myriad shopping centres, hotels and restaurants catering for this joyous occasion. Venue: Throughout Malaysia