The celebration of a quarter century of the Lima Gunung Festival (FLG) in 2026 brings new enthusiasm to the people in the slope area of Mount Merbabu. Warangan Hamlet, Muneng Warangan Village, Magelang Regency, is now more accessible with upgraded road infrastructure, welcoming thousands of visitors who will witness the grand event on July 10–12, 2026.
Initiated by cultural figure Sutanto Mendut in 1997, the festival has become a symbol of the resilience of mountain farming communities. Since 2010, the community, which embraces residents from five mountains—Merapi, Merbabu, Andong, Sumbing, and Menoreh—has strengthened its commitment to organizing the festival independently. The "Oath of the Land" (Sumpah Tanah) decision, made during the eruption phase of Mount Merapi at the time, serves as proof that inner strength and mutual cooperation (gotong royong) are far more valuable than depending on third-party sponsors.
This year, a total of 85 art groups with 1,274 personnel will enliven the main stage. Through a strict curation process, performers will present a variety of arts ranging from dance and music to exhibitions of art installations made from natural materials. The peak of the event will also feature the presentation of the "Lima Gunung Award" to senior artist Sukitri for her long dedication to the world of traditional arts.
Carrying the provocative theme "Makin Goblok Bareng" (Becoming More Foolish Together), the community wishes to emphasize the philosophy of humility and the spirit of lifelong learning. Sutanto Mendut stressed that the festival's 25-year continuity is not merely a celebration of tradition, but an inner bond between residents that cannot be measured by material wealth. Despite being deeply rooted, they still reject the label of 'tradition', which they believe could limit the space for creativity and the community spirit (keguyuban) that they have voluntarily maintained.
The success of this festival is tangible proof that village civilization can grow and remain relevant amidst modernization without losing its identity. Through collaboration based on mutual respect and collective consciousness, the Lima Gunung Festival continues to survive as the most honest space of expression for the mountain community of Magelang.
