No matter what time of year visitors come to Malaysia, they’ll be able to take part in a number of colorful celebrations. Since the exact dates of these festivals vary, access http://travel.tourism.gov.my to get the latest schedule information.
Following are some of the festivals that are not to be missed:
Hari Raya Aidilfitri
A big event for Muslims, this day marks the end of the annual month-long fasting period. The festivities start with special prayers at mosques and continue with feasts shared with family and friends. The king and prime minister of Malaysia host a celebration at the Palace in Kuala Lumpur and at the Prime Minister's Official Residence in Putrajaya, where locals as well as visitors are welcome.
Chinese New Year
Although the big day includes lion or dragon dance performances and parades, the evening before the New Year celebrations is more of a family-style event that includes a reunion dinner. The days that follow include the exchanging of gifts with visiting relatives and friends. Children receive red packets containing lucky money. Chinese New Year happens in February.
Deepavali
This is the Hindu festival of lights that commemorates the victory of good over evil. During this time, oil lamps and decorative lanterns are placed in front of houses. A floral design made of colored rice, called a kolam, is placed on the ground to invoke blessings. The government organizes traditional Indian dances in honor of this holiday. This festival usually falls around late October and November.
Christmas and New Year's Eve
With year-round warm temperatures, visitors can choose to celebrate Christmas in the sun. Beach resorts organize special dinners and parties to ring in the New Year. For those who want to go out and enjoy the nighttime festivities of New Year’s Eve, check out the street parties in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Genting Highlands.
Gawai
Marking the end of the rice harvest, Gawai is an important event in Sarawak’s tribal community. Ibans, Bidayuhs and Orang Ulu people wear traditional costumes and celebrate with their guests over a huge dinner and toasts of rice wine. For the Bidayuh community, this is also the time for single young people to look for their life partners. Gawai usually takes place in June.
Ka'amatan
This harvest festival usually takes place in May in Sabah. The Kadazandusun people organize a thanksgiving ceremony to honor the rice spirit, Bambaazon, for another bountiful year. The festivities include a pageant to choose a Harvest Queen, musical competitions, cultural performances, finger wrestling (yes, finger wrestling!), buffalo races, and dancing.
Merdeka Celebrations
On Aug. 31, the entire country celebrates the independence of Malaysia. The festivities include a Merdeka launch party in mid-August, a Merdeka Day Parade complete with floats and marching bands, and a closing party in mid-September.
