Surakarta is a lovely city for enjoying Javanese art, culture, and tradition in every aspect. Home to cultural exploration, Solo International Performing Arts (SIPA) is becoming one of Surakarta’s biggest performing arts festivals, beautifully showcasing a variety of performing arts, from music and dance to more.
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SIPA is held every year in Solo and has become one of the city’s most anticipated events. The five-day festival offers a variety of art experiences from many cultural backgrounds.
Get to Know Solo International Performing Arts (SIPA)
SIPA began in 2009, started by Ir. Joko Widodo, who was the Mayor of Surakarta at the time. Solo International Performing Arts aims to establish Surakarta/Solo as a gateway to Javanese culture and enhance the city’s image as a cultural hub, bringing together countries, regions, and cultures. Solo International Performing Arts opens several art performance categories, such as:
| Dance | SIPA welcomes artists from all backgrounds to present traditional and contemporary dances that celebrate culture and artistic expression. |
| Theatre | The theatre section showcases plays exploring social and cultural themes, featuring acclaimed directors and renowned actors. |
| Music | SSIPA’s musical performances span traditional to contemporary styles, offering audiences a diverse and enriching experience. |
SIPA has become an annual festival in Surakarta, typically held between August and September. The city is easily accessible, with a range of accommodation and transportation options. Visitors can take a direct flight to Adi Soemarmo Airport or travel by train to Solo Balapan or Jebres Station, then continue their journey by online taxi or other local transportation.
While in Surakarta, take the opportunity to explore the city’s attractions and experience its local delicacies. As a relatively compact city, Surakarta is easy to explore on foot, allowing you to discover its cultural charm while enjoying the performances at SIPA 2026.
Celebrating the Solo International Performing Arts 2026
| Location | Pamedan Mangkunegaran |
| Date | 12-16 September 2026 |
| Ticket | Free Entrance |
| Theme | Kinetic Kinship: Beyond Boundaries |
Solo International Performing Arts 2026 welcomes Gondrong Gunarto as its Official Ambassador. Gondrong Gunarto is a legendary Gamelan composer who blends traditional and modern music with magical flair.
SIPA Festival 2026 brings together international collaborations, artist residencies, Urban Market, and pop-up performances throughout the city. Along with workshops, cultural exchanges, and eco-friendly campaigns, SIPA offers more than just an art celebration. It is an inclusive and sustainable creative space open to all. Explore more about Solo International Performing Arts 2026 through sipafestival.com and Instagram @sipafestival.