1. What is the most popular festival in Kota Kinabalu?
The most popular festival in Kota Kinabalu is the Sabah Fest. 2. When does the Sabah Fest take place?
The Sabah Fest usually takes place in May.
2. How does the city celebrate major holidays such as Chinese New Year and Hari Raya?
Chinese New Year:
– During Chinese New Year, Singapore transforms into a sea of red lanterns and decorations.
– There are usually lion dance performances and firecracker displays in various parts of the city.
– Chinatown is beautifully decorated with traditional Chinese decorations and there are street markets selling festive goods.
– Many shopping malls also have special events and promotions during this time.
Hari Raya:
– Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a major celebration for the Muslim community in Singapore.
– The streets are lined with lights and bazaars selling traditional Malay delicacies.
– Families often gather for big feasts and dress up in their best traditional attire.
– There are also fireworks displays on the eve of Hari Raya.
– Mosques hold special prayers and open houses where people from all backgrounds can come together to celebrate.
3. Are there any music festivals or concerts that take place in Kota Kinabalu?
Yes, there are several music festivals and concerts that take place in Kota Kinabalu throughout the year. Some popular ones include the Kokol Hill Music Festival, Labuan International Sea Challenge and Water Festival, Sabah Fest, KK Jazz Festival, Borneo World Music Expo, KLAGFest (Kota Kinabalu Latin American and Caribbean Cultural Festival), and Rainforest World Music Festival (located about 2 hours from Kota Kinabalu). Additionally, many international artists also come to perform at venues such as the Sabah International Convention Centre and Suria Sabah Shopping Mall.
4. What are some traditional events or ceremonies that locals participate in throughout the year?
Some traditional events and ceremonies that locals may participate in throughout the year include:1. Lunar New Year (January/February): Also known as Spring Festival, this festival marks the beginning of the new year in the lunar calendar. It is celebrated with dragon and lion dances, fireworks, family gatherings, and the exchange of red envelopes.
2. Lantern Festival (15th day of the first lunar month): This festival marks the end of Lunar New Year celebrations and is known for its colorful lantern displays.
3. Qingming Festival (April 4 or 5): This festival honors ancestors by cleaning and tending to their gravesites and offering food and flowers.
4. Dragon Boat Festival (5th day of the 5th lunar month): This festival commemorates the death of a famous Chinese poet Qu Yuan with dragon boat races, zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), and other traditional activities.
5. Mid-Autumn Festival (15th day of the 8th lunar month): Also known as Mooncake Festival, this festival celebrates the harvest season with moon viewing, lanterns, and eating mooncakes.
6. National Day Golden Week (October 1-7): This week-long holiday commemorates the founding of modern China on October 1st with large-scale celebrations, parades, and cultural activities.
7. Chinese New Year’s Eve Dinner: On Chinese New Year’s Eve, families gather for a feast to celebrate together. Traditional dishes such as fish, dumplings, spring rolls, and niangao (rice cakes) are often served to symbolize prosperity and luck for the coming year.
8. Temple Fairs: These fairs often take place during traditional festivals or holidays at temples or parks where people can participate in cultural activities such as lion dances, acrobatics performances, traditional music performances, calligraphy demonstrations, and taste local snacks.
9. Ghost Festivals: In July or August, the Ghost Festival is celebrated to honor ancestors and appease wandering spirits. Activities may include burning incense and offering food as well as traditional performances.
10. Traditional Weddings: In addition to modern weddings, some couples choose to have a more traditional Chinese wedding ceremony which may involve tea ceremonies, elaborate banquets, firecrackers, and other cultural rituals.
5. Can you tell us about the local food and drinks served during festivals and events in Kota Kinabalu?
During festivals and events in Kota Kinabalu, many local food and drinks are served and are often an important part of the celebrations. Some popular dishes include:
1. Hinava – This is a traditional dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, onions, chili, and grated ginger. It’s commonly served during Kadazan-Dusun festivals.
2. Tu Karung – This is a chicken dish cooked in bamboo over an open fire. It’s usually served during Harvest Festival or Pesta Kaamatan.
3. Ambuyat – A dish made from sago flour mixed with water until it becomes a sticky paste. It’s typically accompanied by various spicy sauces and seafood dishes.
4. Ngiu Chap (Beef Noodle Soup) – A Chinese-influenced noodle soup made with beef broth, noodles, and various cuts of beef including tripe, tendon, and brisket.
5. Lepat Pisang – This is a dessert made by wrapping mashed bananas (or other fruits) in banana leaves before grilling them over hot coals.
In terms of drinks, some popular choices include:
1. Tapai – A fermented rice drink that is often served as a traditional alcoholic beverage during celebrations such as weddings or cultural events.
2. Teh Tarik – A milky tea popular among Malaysians, especially during breakfast or as a pick-me-up throughout the day.
3. Borneo Pearl Milk Tea – This sweet and creamy drink combines black tea with milk and pearls (tapioca balls), popularized by Taiwanese bubble tea shops in Kota Kinabalu.
4. Toddy – Another traditional alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of coconut palms, commonly served at festivals or as a refreshing drink on hot days.
5.Havea/Kinomolko – These are fermented rice-based drinks that also have alcohol content but are sweeter compared to tapai. They are typically served during celebrations or as a post-meal digestif.
6. Are there any unique or lesser-known festivals that tourists should check out when visiting Kota Kinabalu?
Some lesser-known festivals in Kota Kinabalu that tourists can attend are:– Lundayeh Cultural Festival: Celebrated by the Lundayeh tribe, this festival showcases their traditional costumes, dances, music, and food.
– Kinabalu Park International Climbathon: This annual event sees participants from all around the world attempting to conquer Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia.
– Sabah Dragon Boat Race: Held in conjunction with the Harvest Festival celebration, this event features traditional dragon boat races along with cultural performances and food stalls.
– Sandakan Stag Beetle Festival: This unique festival celebrates the stag beetle, a popular insect among collectors in Sabah. Visitors can learn about these insects and participate in various activities such as beetle catching competitions.
– Tadau Ka’amatan (Harvest Festival) at Mari-Mari Cultural Village: While the Harvest Festival is celebrated across Sabah, visiting the Mari-Mari Cultural Village during this time offers a more immersive experience as visitors can witness traditional rituals and participate in traditional games and activities.
7. How do local communities come together to celebrate festivals and events in Kota Kinabalu?
Local communities in Kota Kinabalu come together to celebrate festivals and events in different ways, depending on the specific festival or event being celebrated. Some common ways include:
1. Parade and Processions: Many festivals and events in Kota Kinabalu involve elaborate parades and processions that showcase the diverse cultures and traditions of the local communities. These often feature traditional costumes, music, dance performances, and floats decorated with colorful ornaments.
2. Traditional Rituals and Ceremonies: Many festivals and events in Kota Kinabalu have deep cultural and religious significance, which is reflected in the traditional rituals and ceremonies conducted during the celebrations. These may include prayer ceremonies, offering of traditional foods to deities or ancestors, and rituals to bring good luck for the upcoming year.
3. Street Markets: Festivals and events in Kota Kinabalu often feature street markets where locals can buy traditional handicrafts, food, clothes, and other items related to the festival celebration. These markets not only provide a platform for local artisans to showcase their products but also serve as a social gathering space for members of the community.
4. Cultural Performances: Traditional cultural performances are an integral part of many festivals in Kota Kinabalu. These may include dance performances showcasing traditional dances from different ethnic groups or musical performances featuring traditional instruments.
5. Sports Events: Along with cultural events, many festivals also feature sports competitions such as traditional games or modern sports like marathon races or tug-of-war matches.
6. Community Gatherings: Local communities also organize gatherings such as open-air dinners or picnics where people can come together to share food, drinks, stories, and laughter while celebrating the festival.
7. Charity Events: Some festivals in Kota Kinabalu also incorporate charity work as part of their celebrations where locals can donate money or goods to less fortunate members of the community.
Overall, these festivities serve as a way for local communities to showcase their culture, traditions, and values while bringing people together in a spirit of joy and unity.
8. Do different ethnic groups within Kota Kinabalu have their own specific celebrations and traditions?
Yes, there are multiple ethnic groups in Kota Kinabalu and each one has their own unique celebrations and traditions. Some of the prominent ethnic groups and their celebrations are:– Kadazandusun: The Kadazandusun community celebrates the Harvest Festival (also known as Pesta Kaamatan) in May every year, to give thanks for the harvest season and pray for a bountiful year ahead.
– Bajau: The Bajau community celebrates the Regatta Lepa Lepa festival, which showcases their traditional boatmaking skills and features colorful boat races.
– Chinese: The Chinese community celebrates major festivals such as Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Mooncake Festival. They also have cultural practices like lion dances, dragon dances, and ancestor worship.
– Malay: The Malay community celebrates Hari Raya Aidilfitri (end of Ramadan) and Hari Raya Aidiladha (Feast of Sacrifice), where families gather together for feasts and exchange gifts.
Each ethnic group may also have their own unique customs and traditions associated with major life events such as weddings, funerals, birth ceremonies, etc.
9. Are there any religious festivals that are widely celebrated in the city?
Yes, Diwali and Eid are widely celebrated in the city.
10. What type of arts and crafts can visitors expect to see at cultural events in Kota Kinabalu?
Visitors to cultural events in Kota Kinabalu can expect to see a diverse range of arts and crafts, including:
1. Traditional weaving: Sabah is home to many different tribes and each has its own unique weaving technique. Visitors can see the traditional process of making woven fabrics using natural materials such as rattan, bamboo and pandanus leaves.
2. Woodcarving: Woodcarving is a popular art form in Sabah, with intricate designs featured on items such as musical instruments, household objects and decorative pieces. Visitors can observe skilled artisans at work during cultural events.
3. Beadwork: Beautiful beaded jewelry and accessories are a traditional craft in Sabah, often made using intricate patterns passed down through generations.
4. Pottery: The Dusun tribe in Kota Kinabalu is known for their pottery making skills, creating functional pieces using techniques handed down for centuries.
5. Basketry: Another traditional craft of the Dusun people, basketry uses natural materials to create baskets and containers for daily use.
6. Batik painting: Originating from Indonesia, batik painting involves using wax and dyes to create colorful patterns on fabric.
7. Traditional costumes: Visitors can also admire the intricate designs and bright colors of traditional costumes worn by different ethnic groups in Kota Kinabalu during cultural events.
8. Musical instruments: Traditional musical instruments like gongs, drums and flutes are often showcased at cultural events in Kota Kinabalu, giving visitors a taste of the local music scene.
9. Handicrafts: Handmade crafts such as carved figurines, masks, keychains and other souvenirs are also common at cultural events in Kota Kinabalu.
10. Food crafts: Visitors can also watch or participate in workshops that showcase traditional food crafts such as rice wine making and coconut grating during cultural events in Kota Kinabalu.
11. Is it easy for tourists to participate in local events and festivals, or are they more geared towards locals only?
This depends on the specific event or festival. Some events and festivals may be geared more towards locals and may require advanced knowledge or connections to participate. However, there are also many events and festivals that are open to tourists, as they can be a great way for travelers to experience local culture and traditions. It is always best to do some research beforehand or ask local organizers to see if tourists are welcome at a particular event or festival.
12. Are there any outdoor markets or bazaars set up during certain festivals or special occasions?
Yes, many festivals and special occasions in India are celebrated with outdoor markets or bazaars. Some popular examples include:– Diwali: During the Hindu festival of lights, numerous outdoor markets are set up across the country selling festive decorations, lights, fireworks, and traditional sweets.
– Holi: Around the time of the colorful spring festival of Holi, there are often open-air markets selling vibrant powders and water guns for people to play with during the festivities.
– Durga Puja: In West Bengal and other parts of Eastern India, temporary markets known as “pandal shops” are set up during the annual Durga Puja festival to sell traditional clothing, accessories, and food.
– Christmas: Many cities have Christmas markets during December where vendors sell holiday decorations, gifts, and delicious snacks.
– Kumbh Mela: This massive Hindu pilgrimage also features sprawling bazaars where pilgrims can buy everything from religious items to souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Overall, outdoor markets or bazaars are a common feature of Indian culture and can be found during various festivals, cultural events, and celebrations throughout the year.
13.Given the current pandemic situation, have virtual celebrations become a trend for local events and festivals?
Yes, virtual celebrations have become a trend for local events and festivals due to the current pandemic situation. Many organizers and event planners have shifted their focus to virtual platforms, such as live streaming or hosting online events, in order to adhere to social distancing guidelines and keep everyone safe. These virtual celebrations have allowed people to still participate in and enjoy local events and festivals from the comfort of their own homes. Furthermore, they have also allowed for a wider audience reach as people from different locations can join in on the celebrations virtually. This trend is expected to continue even after the pandemic is over, as it offers convenience and flexibility for both organizers and participants.
14. How do young people participate in and contribute to organizing local events and festivals in Kota Kinabalu?
Young people in Kota Kinabalu participate in and contribute to organizing local events and festivals in various ways:
1. Joining event organizing committees: Many young people actively join event organizing committees, such as those for music festivals, food fairs, and cultural events. They offer their time, energy, and skills to help plan, promote, and execute the event.
2. Performing or showcasing their talent: Young people with talents in music, dance, art, or other forms of performance often participate in local events by performing on stage or showcasing their artwork. This not only adds to the variety and entertainment value of the event but also gives these young individuals a platform to showcase their skills.
3. Volunteering: Another way young people contribute to local events is by volunteering their time and services. This could include tasks such as set-up and clean-up for the event venue, assisting with registration or ticketing, helping with decorations or props, etc.
4. Providing logistics support: Young people may also assist in providing logistics support for local events by helping with transportation arrangements for participants or performers, setting up sound systems and equipment, ensuring adequate security measures are in place, etc.
5. Promoting the event on social media: The younger generation is well-versed in the use of social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. They often leverage these platforms to promote local events and festivals to their networks of friends and followers.
6. Collaborating with local businesses: Some young entrepreneurs may collaborate with event organizers by setting up booths or stalls at the event to sell their products or services. This not only benefits them financially but also adds diversity to the event experience for attendees.
7. Bringing fresh ideas and creativity: With a fresh perspective on trends and interests among young people, they can bring new ideas and creativity that can enhance the appeal of local events. They may suggest incorporating new activities or themes that cater specifically to younger audiences.
Overall, young people play a significant role in contributing their time, energy, and creativity to organizing local events and festivals in Kota Kinabalu. Their involvement not only helps make the event a success but also builds their skills and provides them with valuable experiences.
15.Do hotels or other accommodations offer special packages during peak festival seasons like Christmas or New Year’s Eve?
Yes, hotels and other accommodations may offer special packages during peak festival seasons like Christmas or New Year’s Eve. These packages may include special amenities, activities, or events for guests to enjoy during their stay. Some examples of these packages could be a holiday-themed buffet dinner, complimentary champagne toast at midnight on New Year’s Eve, or discounted rates for families traveling with children during Christmas. These packages are often promoted and advertised in advance to attract guests to choose their hotel or accommodation for the festive season.
16.What sports events take place in Kota Kinabalu, such as marathons, races, etc.?
There are several sports events that take place in Kota Kinabalu, including:
1. Borneo International Marathon – a full marathon distance race held annually in May or June.
2. Sabah Adventure Challenge – an adventure race covering various outdoor activities like running, kayaking, and mountain biking.
3. Borneo Ultra-Trail Marathon – a trail running event with different distances ranging from 12km to 100km.
4. Borneo Open Golf Tournament – an annual golf tournament held at Sutera Harbour Resort, attracting professional and novice golfers.
5. North Borneo Beach Run – a beach run event with different distances and routes along the beautiful beaches of Kota Kinabalu.
6. Sabah Dragons Fun-A-Thon Race – a charity fun run organized by the local dragon boat team to raise funds for charitable causes.
7. KK City Day Fun Run – an annual event held on Kota Kinabalu City Day (February 2nd), featuring both competitive and non-competitive categories.
8. Sabah Charity Polo Cup – an annual charity polo event raising funds for various humanitarian causes in Sabah.
9. Kota Kinabalu Urbanathon – a urban obstacle course challenge featuring running, climbing, crawling over man-made obstacles around the city streets of Kota Kinabalu.
10. Sandakan Colour Adventure Run – a colorful fun run through sand and obstacles, held in Sandakan but popular among participants from Kota Kinabalu as well.
17. What type of traditional dances are performed at cultural festivals in Kota Kinabalu?
Some of the traditional dances that are performed at cultural festivals in Kota Kinabalu include:
1. Sumazau – This is a popular traditional dance of the Kadazandusun ethnic group. It is usually performed during harvest celebrations and involves movements that mimic the graceful movements of birds.
2. Magunatip – Also known as “Bamboo Dance”, this dance is typically performed by the Murut community. It involves dancers moving between bamboo poles held by two people, who rhythmically hit them together to create music.
3. Daling-Daling – This dance originated from the Bajau community and is often performed at weddings or other celebratory events. It involves graceful movements and imitates the swaying motion of waves.
4. Joget Lambak – A popular dance among the Bruneian Malays in Sabah, this dance involves couples dancing gracefully to upbeat music with simple footwork.
5. Mongigol Sumundai – This is a harvest dance of the Rungus community, where dancers perform in a circular formation while holding brass gongs.
6. Randai – An energetic dance originating from Indonesia, it has been adapted by the Minangkabau community in Sabah and often includes stories from their culture and heritage.
7. Tarian Adai-Adai – This dance originates from the Chinese communities in Kota Kinabalu and features dancers wearing intricate costumes while moving gracefully to traditional Chinese music.
8. Ulang-Ulang – A traditional dance performed by the Tuaran community during various ceremonies and celebrations, featuring slow and graceful movements accompanied by hand-held fans or handkerchiefs.
9. Daling-Dalingen – A lively traditional dance native to Sabah, it showcases energetic movements resembling birds taking flight and can be danced solo or in pairs.
10.Dansa Timpani/Tiban-Tiban – This ancient warrior’s battle dance originated from Sulu, and is often performed at cultural festivals in Sabah to display traditional martial arts moves.
18.How do street vendors participate in festivities and what types of items do they sell during these events?
Street vendors play a significant role in the festivities by providing a wide variety of products and services. They often set up their stalls or carts near the event area to attract customers. Some of the items they sell during these events include traditional decorations, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, toys, face paint, balloons, and other festive items.
During cultural and religious festivals, street vendors may also offer traditional clothing and accessories. For example, during Diwali in India, street vendors sell colorful clothes and decorative items like diyas (lamps) and rangolis (colored patterns made on the floor).
In music festivals or concerts, street vendors often sell food and beverages such as hot dogs, burgers, popcorn, cotton candy, sodas, and water. They may also offer merchandise related to the event like t-shirts, hats, and posters.
Throughout the year-end holiday season (Christmas markets), street vendors sell handmade gifts such as ornaments and crafts. In some countries with winter festivals like Christmas markets or ice festivals held on frozen lakes or rivers in Europe or Asia respectively have a variety of foods from different nations reigning over local foods including roti sellers selling Indian rotis.
Overall, street vendors provide easy access to affordable products that enhance the festive atmosphere for everyone attending. They also add a unique charm to these events by offering a mix of traditional items alongside modern consumer goods.
19.What is the most scenic location to watch fireworks displays on major holidays or festivals in Kota Kinabalu?
The most scenic location to watch fireworks displays on major holidays or festivals in Kota Kinabalu is the Signal Hill Observatory Platform. This elevated spot offers a panoramic view of the city skyline and the ocean, providing an amazing backdrop for any fireworks show. Another popular spot to watch fireworks is at the Sutera Harbour Marina, where you can see the vibrant displays reflected on the water.
20.Are there any environmental or conservation events/festivals in Kota Kinabalu that promote sustainability and eco-tourism?
Yes, there are several environmental and conservation events/festivals in Kota Kinabalu that promote sustainability and eco-tourism. Some of these include:
1. Sabah Earth Day: This annual event is held on April 22nd and aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices.
2. Borneo Eco Film Festival: This festival showcases films and documentaries related to environmental conservation, sustainability, and indigenous communities in Borneo.
3. Kota Kinabalu International Bike Week: This event promotes eco-friendly transportation through cycling and also raises funds for various environmental projects.
4. Borneo Bird Festival: Held annually in Sandakan, this festival celebrates the rich bird diversity of Borneo and raises awareness about conservation efforts.
5. Sabah Fest: This cultural festival highlights Sabah’s unique indigenous cultures and traditions while also promoting environmentally-friendly practices like using traditional materials for crafts.
6. Kota Kinabalu Nature Festival: This festival showcases Sabah’s natural attractions and promotes sustainable tourism practices.
7. Green Semporna Day: Organized by local NGOs, this event aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the coral reefs in Semporna through various activities like beach clean-ups and tree planting.
8. World Ocean Day Celebration: Held on June 8th every year, this event encourages the public to take action towards protecting our oceans through educational talks, beach clean-ups, and other activities.
9. Borneo Rhythms of Rimba (BORR) Wildlife Festival: This festival promotes wildlife conservation in Sabah through music, dance, workshops, and informative talks about endangered species in Borneo.
10. Tour de Tambunan Eco-Cycling Challenge: An annual cycling event that takes place in Tambunan, this challenge promotes eco-tourism while also highlighting the importance of preserving Tambunan’s natural heritage.