In 2022, Balis governor, Wayan Koster, designated January 29 as Arak Day, a celebration of the islands traditional palm liquor. This year, the official event will be held at GWK Park, where the Arak Berem Bali for the World exhibition will take place starting January 27.
The organizers emphasize that Arak Day in Bali is not an excuse for excessive drinking but rather an expression of gratitude to the gods. Arak is more than just a traditional alcoholic beverage it is used in sacred offerings to Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa. The celebration of Arak Day should be seen as a temple festival marked by prayer and respect, not indulgence.
Professor Wirasuta, head of the Bali Arak Association, explained that arak holds deep philosophical meaning in Balinese tradition. Every drop of this handcrafted spirit carries spiritual significance. Arak is a symbol of offerings to the gods for a bountiful harvest and serves as a form of gratitude.
He further stressed that Arak Day is about preserving culture, not encouraging alcohol consumption. To support the promotion of arak as a unique Balinese product, the Bali Arak Association has called on hotels and restaurants across the island to feature arak-based cocktails more prominently. This initiative is expected to boost the local economy and ultimately bring Balinese arak to the international market.
The association includes Governor Koster himself, who has repeatedly highlighted the cultural importance of arak and encouraged its responsible consumption.
On the island, arak is widely available ranging from inexpensive versions sold in roadside stalls in small, unmarked plastic bottles to premium arak in elegant clay bottles with excise stamps, available in larger retail stores. While the licensed version is considered safer, the drinks unique taste is divisive: some love it, others not so much, but it will undoubtedly leave an impression.
If you've ever wanted to try traditional Balinese liquor, theres no better time than Arak Day!
Traditional arak has an alcohol content ranging from 30% to 50%. According to Balinese custom, it is meant to be shared from a single glass, passed around in a circle, with each person taking their portion in one quick shot. Holding the glass for too long is considered bad form.
Sources: nusabali
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