A Guide to the Erau International Folklore and Art Festival

Introduction

A Guide to the Erau International Folklore and Art Festival is a window into the unparalleled cultural splendor of East Kalimantan. Held in Tenggarong, Kutai Kartanegara Regency, this festival is not merely an annual celebration but a living manifestation of the long history of the Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura Sultanate, the oldest sultanate in Indonesia. The word "Erau" itself originates from the local word "Eroh," meaning a lively, bustling, and joyous atmosphere. This atmosphere reflects the collective joy of the people in giving thanks to God's blessings and honoring their ancestors.

As one of the largest cultural festivals in the Nusantara, Erau has transformed into an international event that brings together local traditions with global arts through the International Folklore and Art Festival (EIFAF). Visitors will be treated to a magical blend of sacred rituals performed within the palace (Sultan's Palace) and vibrant contemporary art performances on the city streets. For cultural travelers, attending Erau is a rare opportunity to witness how an ancient tradition remains relevant and is preserved with great honor amidst the currents of modernization. Here, every dance, every drumbeat, and every garment worn carries a deep philosophical meaning, making Tenggarong the center of cultural gravity during the festival.

History & Background

The historical roots of Erau date back to the reign of the first Sultan of Kutai, Aji Batara Agung Dewa Sakti, around the 13th century. Initially, Erau was held as part of the Tijak Tanah (earth-stepping ceremony) and Mandi ke Tepian (cleansing by the river) ceremonies when the Sultan reached adulthood or during a royal coronation. This festival served as a form of power legitimization and a means for the Sultan to interact directly with his people. For centuries, this tradition was maintained despite the shifting centers of government, eventually settling in Tenggarong.

Historically, Erau was an exclusive right of the Sultanate. However, with the changing times and the integration of the Sultanate into the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, the implementation of Erau is now managed through cooperation between the Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura Sultanate and the Kutai Kartanegara Regency Government. In 2013, the festival ascended to the global stage by partnering with the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts (CIOFF), an organization under the auspices of UNESCO.

This addition of international elements has not diluted Erau's original value. Instead, it has enriched the cultural perspective, with delegations from various countries such as Russia, Turkey, South Korea, and Thailand coming to Tenggarong to exchange traditions. However, the core of Erau remains the traditional rituals led by the Sultan's family. The presence of Museum Mulawarman, which was once the Sultan's residence, stands as a silent witness to how this long history continues to breathe. This strong historical background is what sets Erau apart from ordinary art festivals; it is a sacred ritual wrapped in the festivity of a people's celebration.

Main Attractions

The allure of Erau lies in its exotic series of rituals and dynamic international participation. Here are some of the main elements that are a must-see:

1. Beluluh and Menjamu Benua Ceremonies

Before the festival officially begins for the public, the Beluluh ritual is performed, which is a purification process for the Sultan from evil elements. After that, Menjamu Benua is conducted, where traditional elders offer sacrifices at three points in Tenggarong city (Head of the Continent, Middle of the Continent, and Tail of the Continent) as a form of requesting permission from spirits and ancestors for the event to proceed smoothly without obstacles.

2. Mendirikan Ayu Procession

This marks the official commencement of Erau. Ayu is a type of wooden pole wrapped in yellow cloth and adorned with palm leaves and eggs. The Sultan himself leads this procession within the palace. A mystical atmosphere is palpable as the distinctive Kutai gamelan music begins to play, signaling that the "gate" of the celebration has been opened.

3. International Art Performances (EIFAF)

On the main stage, you will witness a beautiful contrast. At one moment, Dayak dancers with magnificent hornbill feather costumes will perform captivatingly, and at the next, a delegation from Eastern Europe might present their energetic folk dances. This diversity creates a powerful intercultural dialogue in open fields or local stadiums.

4. Mengulur Naga and Belimbur Traditions

The climax of the entire Erau series is the Mengulur Naga (Releasing the Dragon) ritual. Two giant dragon replicas made of rattan and cloth are carried down the Mahakam River towards Kutai Lama. After the dragon's head is "launched" or released into the river, the Belimbur tradition begins. This is a moment where all city residents, from officials to tourists, splash each other with water from the Mahakam River. Belimbur symbolizes self-purification from bad traits and misfortune. The streets of Tenggarong will transform into a water war arena filled with laughter and brotherhood.

5. Beseprah (Communal Meal)

One of the warmest moments is Beseprah, where the Sultan sits with his people on a long spread of cloth to eat together. Thousands of types of traditional dishes are served, and anyone can participate. This is a symbol of equality and the closeness of leaders with their community, without caste distinctions.

Travel Tips & Logistics

Attending Erau requires careful planning as Tenggarong city will be very crowded during the festival.

• Event Schedule: Erau is usually held between July and September. Be sure to monitor the official event calendar from the Kutai Kartanegara Tourism Office or the Sultanate's social media, as the exact dates follow the traditional calendar calculations and coordination with CIOFF.
• Transportation: The nearest airports are Aji Pangeran Tumenggung (APT) Pranoto International Airport in Samarinda or Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan Airport in Balikpapan. From Samarinda, Tenggarong can be reached within a 1-1.5 hour drive. Options include travel services, online taxis, or private car rentals.
• Accommodation: Tenggarong has several hotels and guesthouses, but capacity is limited during the festival. It is highly recommended to book accommodation at least 2 months in advance. If fully booked, you can stay in Samarinda and commute daily.
• Etiquette and Dress Code: As many rituals are sacred, dress modestly. When entering the palace area or Museum Mulawarman, wear covered clothing. During the Belimbur event, prepare a change of clothes and protect your electronic devices with a waterproof bag (dry bag), as you will definitely get soaked.
• Essentials: The weather in East Kalimantan tends to be hot and humid. Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and carry enough drinking water. Don't forget to bring a camera with ample memory, as every corner of this festival is very photogenic.

Cuisine & Local Experience

Cuisine is an inseparable part of the Erau experience. During the festival, there will be many pop-up markets and food stalls serving Kutai specialties rarely found elsewhere.

One must-try is Nasi Bekepor. This is savory rice cooked with spices, salted fish, and served with sambal raja (king's chili paste) and Kutai sour vegetable soup. Its rich, spicy flavor reflects a strong coastal cultural influence. Additionally, try Gence Ruan, which is grilled snakehead fish coated with a distinctive spicy and fresh fried chili paste.

For sweet snacks, look for Roti Gelap or the local version of Kue Terang Bulan (moonlight cake). Also, don't miss the opportunity to taste exotic Kalimantan fruits if they are in season, such as lai durian (orange-colored durian) or elai.

Beyond food, the most memorable local experience is interacting with local artisans. Around the festival area, you can find artisans of Sulam Tumpar (traditional Dayak embroidery) or bead makers. Purchasing their products not only gets you unique souvenirs but also helps support the local creative economy. Spending an afternoon sitting by the Mahakam River while enjoying the iconic view of the Kutai Kartanegara bridge will complete your experience in Tenggarong.

Conclusion

The Erau International Folklore and Art Festival is more than just a spectacle; it is a profound spiritual and cultural journey. Here, the boundaries between past and present, and between local and global, merge into a beautiful harmony. Through the purifying Belimbur ritual and the festivity of international dances, Erau teaches us the importance of preserving our traditional roots while remaining open to the outside world. Visiting Tenggarong during Erau will give you a new perspective on Indonesia's true richness—a nation great because of its diverse cultures, preserved with pride and honor.