Jakarta Fair

The Jakarta Fair, held annually at the Jakarta International Expo Kemayoran in Indonesia, is a vibrant event that typically takes place in June and July. This lively fair is brimming with a variety of activities, including exhibitions, trade promotions, shopping, music performances, shows, amusement rides, and a food festival. It serves as a central part of the festivities celebrating Jakarta’s anniversary on June 22.

Visitors can explore a diverse selection of goods and products, ranging from specialty foods to traditional crafts, showcased by exhibitors from across the country. The fair also features live entertainment, including music, dance, and cultural performances, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The origins of the Jakarta Fair date back to the colonial era in Batavia (now Jakarta) during the Dutch East Indies period. Originally known as "Pasar Gambir" it combined trade exhibitions with entertainment. In the 1950s, the fair evolved into Pekan Raya Indonesia, focusing on boosting the economy by promoting exports and introducing new technology and products. The modern Jakarta Fair began in 1968 and moved to the Jakarta International Expo at Kemayoran in 1992 due to an increasing number of participants.

In recent years, the Jakarta Fair has become a bustling hub of trade, with billions of rupiah in transactions and millions of visitors. It continues to attract numerous companies and attendees, significantly contributing to the local economy. The legacy of the Jakarta Fair has even inspired similar events, such as the Pasar Malam Besar in The Hague, Netherlands, reflecting the tradition of colonial-era fairs.

References:

- Merrillees, Scott (2015). Jakarta: Portraits of a Capital 1950-1980. Jakarta: Equinox Publishing. ISBN 9786028397308.