August has always been the most anticipated month for all Indonesian people. Not only because of the historic moment on August 17, 1945, but also because of various traditions and August 17th activities. Usually, every village throughout Indonesia competes to prepare festive and enjoyable events.
This event can consist of flag ceremonies, art performances, and unique and exciting competitions. Over time, August 17th competitions have continued to develop, creating innovations in new games. However, this time we will discuss what competitions have become traditions and are always held every year.
The Tradition of Commemorating August 17th, Indonesia’s Independence Day
The celebration of Indonesia’s Independence Day on August 17th is not just a solemn flag ceremony. This tradition of celebrating independence has evolved into a moment of togetherness filled with joy.
Symbolizing the spirit of cooperation and togetherness, the existence of the August 17th competitions has become a medium to strengthen relationships among communities, eventually becoming a tradition.
This tradition of commemorating August 17th has also undergone evolution. If in the past, August 17th competitions were only held at the neighborhood and community levels, now various institutions, companies, and even shopping centers participate in organizing independence competitions.
Even social media has become a new platform for holding virtual competitions that anyone can participate in.
Read more: Get to Know R.A. Kartini and How She Fought for Education
August 17th Competitions That Are Always Held Every Year
Every time August 17th approaches, various independence competitions begin to be prepared throughout Indonesia. These competitions have become hereditary traditions that are always anticipated.
1. Sack Race (Balap Karung)
Sack racing has become the most iconic August 17th competition and is always present at every Independence Day celebration.
Participants must jump from the starting line to the finish while inside a rice sack or burlap bag. This competition teaches balance, coordination, and perseverance.
What makes it even more exciting is the cheerful laughter of participants and spectators when someone falls and gets back up again.
2. Cracker Eating Contest (Lomba Makan Kerupuk)
Who doesn’t know the cracker-eating contest? Participants must finish crackers that are hung without using their hands.
This competition always brings laughter because of the expressions of participants trying to bite the crackers while jumping around. Besides crackers, other variations often used are bread or traditional cakes.
3. Marble Racing (Balap Kelereng)
Marble racing uses a spoon or other simple tools to carry marbles from start to finish without dropping them. This simple game trains concentration and precision while remaining fun.
4. Greased Pole Climbing (Panjat Pinang)
Greased pole climbing is the most challenging and spectacular August 17th competition. A betel nut pole that has been greased with oil or soap must be climbed in groups to reach the prizes at the top.
This competition requires teamwork, strategy, and persistence. Often it takes several attempts to successfully reach the top.
The philosophy of greased pole climbing is very deep: independence is not something easily achieved. It requires struggle, cooperation, and perseverance to reach the goal. The prize at the top of the pole symbolizes sweet independence after a long struggle.
5. Tug of War (Tarik Tambang)
Tug of war requires strength and solid team coordination. Two groups face each other to pull the rope toward their respective sides.
This competition teaches the importance of teamwork and strategy in achieving victory. Usually divided by age category or gender to ensure fair competition.
6. Clog Racing (Lomba Balap Bakiak)
Clog racing or wooden sandal racing requires perfect coordination between team members. Usually consisting of 3-5 people whose feet are tied to one wooden board, then run together toward the finish line. This competition relies heavily on communication and movement synchronization.
#MerahPutihinFrame Photography Competition with @america
In commemoration of August 17th, @america presents a photography competition with an independence theme. This competition invites all Indonesian people to capture independence moments through your beloved camera lens.
With the spirit of Indonesia’s Independence Day, @america invites SOBATamerica to participate in #MerahPutihinFrame with the theme “Independence by SOBATamerica”!
Terms and Conditions:
- Follow Instagram and X accounts @atamerica
- Register as a member on the @america website
- Upload original photo works themed “Independence by SOBATamerica” on Instagram or X no later than August 9, 2025. Tag @atamerica, 3 of your friends, and use hashtag #MerahPutihinFrame
- Not permitted to use AI (Artificial Intelligence)
- Write the meaning of Indonesia’s Independence Day behind your photo in 2-4 sentences
- Make sure your account is open to the public
- Submitted photos have never been entered in any competition before
- @america is not responsible for anything regarding submitted photos if there are claims of ownership or copyright over submitted works and other matters that cause losses with or without value to participants or other parties
- Upload your photo work in the following Google form: atam.tv/MerahPutihinFrame
Competition Timeline:
| August 9, 2025 | Final deadline for photo submission |
| August 13, 2025 | #MerahPutihinFrame winner announcement |
| August 16, 2025 | Winners invited to Indonesia’s Independence Day celebration at @america along with prize presentation |
Join the competition and win a Kodak Digital Camera along with exclusive merchandise from @america!
