17th August is the day where every Indonesian regardless of their religion or culture is filled with joy and will be busy in festivities and celebrations. Yes 17th August 1945 was the day when Indonesia declared independence from Netherlands. Even though Dutch didn't accept this Independence until 2005.
You will see the preparations for this day take place in advance before the festivities. Whole cities, villages and small towns will be found decorated, decorations hung around covering the whole Presidential palace in the glorious red and white. People will gather community groups to perform cleaning services for the roads, residential areas and the markets. Special activities, competitions arranged for the kids and even prizes are sponsored to motivate them to do more. The themes of TV/Radio commercials will be changed accordingly with special promotions.
Tv programs showing the struggle and commemorations for the Independence through documentaries and small tele films or dramas. The Independence day begins with the Flag hoisting ceremony at Presidential Palace which is covered by the local television channels as well. This ceremony is accompanied by various high school students chosen across the country. The parades of marching bands is held by government on the sunday after the Independence day. Foreigners are always welcome to join them.
Not just the locals but the expats and other nationalities living in Indonesia participate fully and whole heartily in the Independence day celebrations. What makes this celebration unique is that the ceremonies are arranged simultaneously in every region involving schools, government offices, army, veterans and everyone in the public.