The Proclamation of Indonesian's independence was read at 10:00 am on Friday, August 17, 1945. This marked the start of the diplomatic and armed-resistance of the Indonesian National Revolution, fighting against the forces of the Netherlands until they officially acknowledged Indonesian's independence in 1949. It wasn't until 2005 that the Netherlands officially accepted August 17, 1945 as Indonesia's independence date.
In celebration, local businesses are draped with
the red and white colors of the flag and various games and contests are held. One of the most popular games is the Panjat Pinang. A trunk of the Areca palm tree is erected in a public area and is greased up with a mixture of clay and oil. At the top are various prizes like bikes and TVs. Whoever makes it to the top wins the prize. In the end, there are a lot of muddy slippery kids and grownups alike. A good time is had by all,
especially by the crowd watching.
Included are some photos of local businesses draped in the patriotic colors red and white, as well as roadside stands and vendors selling them.
