Facts About Solo Batik Carnival
The Solo Batik Carnival, or SBC, is a vibrant annual event held in Solo City, Indonesia. Unlike traditional Christian pre-Lenten celebrations, this carnival is a lively festival featuring dancers adorned in elaborate batik-themed costumes. The inaugural carnival took place in 2008 on Slamet Riyadi Street. The following year, the theme was "Topeng/Mask" featuring 300 performers who incorporated masks into their acts, representing mythological figures such as kings, knights, and royal servants.
In 2010, the carnival adopted the theme "Sekar Jagad" attracting around 300 participants. The 2011 edition, themed "The Amazing Legend" spotlighted four Javanese folk legends and included winners of the Miss Indonesia beauty pageant. The event was graced by the presence of the Mayor of Solo, Joko Widodo, and Vice Mayor Hadi Rudyatmo, both of whom participated in the parade dressed in distinguished costumes.
The 2019 carnival celebrated the theme "Suvarna Bhumi: The Golden of ASEAN" with delegations from 11 Southeast Asian countries showcasing traditional outfits and artistic performances.