30/04/2026
On my buying trip to Bali last month, I was lucky enough to be there for Nyepi, Bali’s sacred day of silence (effectively Balinese New Year). On this day, the whole island is still – no noise, no lights, no movement for 24 hours. No cars, no motorbikes – even the airport is closed. It’s a day of reflection, cleansing and resetting and such a beautiful time to be in Bali.
The night before, Ogoh Ogoh parades are held across the island. Locals build huge effigies, traditionally from bamboo, paper and paint, to represent evil spirits. They then parade them through the streets with music, fire and chaos to scare away bad energy before the stillness of Nyepi.
I also got to witness a number of Melasti ceremonies - one of the most powerful and meaningful days in the Balinese calendar. Held a few days before Nyepi, Balinese take part in spectacular purification processions - carrying sacred temple objects from their villages to the sea. Such a meaningful and visually stunning part of Balinese culture.
What an incredible time to be there! 💗
