Every August 17, Indonesians celebrate and give thanks for the anniversary of Indonesia's

independence by holding a flag ceremony and usually holding various kinds of competitions, the
popular one being the areca nut climbing. In addition to waving the red and white flag, the
community also put up banners with red and white patterns along village, city and provincial roads
and decorated the environment with red and white shades as a representation of the colors of the
country's flag as a form of nationalism to celebrate Independence Day. August every year is always a
festive month in Indonesia because all citizens in various parts of Indonesia are very enthusiastic to
welcome the anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Indonesia. Not only decorating
villages and residences with various 17's knick-knacks and attributes, in some areas other traditions
are also usually held to make the celebration even more lively. Even though this year we can't hold
these traditions due to the pandemic, there's nothing wrong with knowing some of the unique
traditions that people usually do to celebrate the Indonesian Independence Day in their regions.

1. Climbing slippery pole

is one of the most anticipated signature races on August 17th. The reason is, this competition
requires the teamwork of several people who are required to climb the trunks of areca palms to get
lots of attractive prizes. However, this competition is not easy because the areca tree trunks have
been smeared with used oil or other lubricants which makes it difficult for the participants.

2. Eat Crackers

The cracker eating competition has also never been absent from the August 17 event. Even though
the tools and preparations needed were easy, namely crackers and raffia rope, the cracker eating
contest was still fun and lively. Participants are required to eat crackers that have been hung from a
rope with their arms crossed behind their backs.

3. Sack Race

As the name suggests, this competition requires participants to reach the finish line using sacks. The
sack race is very exciting because you can't run to reach the finish line, instead you have to jump
around using a sack like a pocong.

4. Balloon Dance

Another idea for the August 17 contest is balloon dancing. This competition is quite easy and
inexpensive because it only requires balloons. Paired participants must dance to the musical
accompaniment while holding a balloon that is flanked on the participant's forehead or forehead.

5. Putting a Pencil/Nail in a Bottle

Another fun August 17 contest is getting a pencil or nail into a bottle. This competition can also be
followed by children to make it more exciting. Later, a pencil or nail will be tied with a raffia string to
the participant's stomach and they will be asked to put it in a bottle.