Lebaran Betawi is an annual tradition and a moment of friendship for the Betawi people in Jakarta.

In 2023, the event was held for two days, from Saturday (20/5/2023) to Sunday (21/5/2023), at the National Monument (Monas), Central Jakarta.

Many arts were displayed during Lebaran Betawi 2023, including tanjidor performances, gambang kromong performances, Betawi keroncong music performances, and Kerontjong Toegoe.

According to Betawi culturist Yoyo Mukhtar, the tradition of Lebaran Betawi originated from the desire of Betawi elders who wanted to honor the people in Jakarta.

"Because the Betawi people are local residents in Jakarta, the idea arose to honor them (other tribes), and Lebaran Betawi exists so that it becomes a place for friendship between the Betawi people and people who live in Jakarta," Yoyo explained, as quoted from Kompas.com, Saturday (20/5/2023).

Lebaran Betawi said Yoyo always occurs during Shawwal, about 1-2 weeks after Eid al-Fitr. This is because the majority of Betawi people are Muslims and practice fasting.

"There are changes in dates every year, the important thing is that it is still Shawwal. Do not exceed the month of Shawwal, it will no longer be called Lebaran," he said.

Interestingly, during Lebaran Betawi, a hantaran tradition is always part of the event. The tradition is still going on today.

"The hantaran tradition arises from the habits of the Betawi people during Eid, containing things that their parents like, that is what is brought (delivered)," said Yoyo.

Although hantaran is often filled with various traditional dishes, one food is always included: dodol.

Source: kompas.com