About Indonesia Independence Day
Indonesia Independence Day, known locally as HUT RI or simply Tujuhbelasan ("the Seventeenth"), is celebrated every August 17. It commemorates 1945, when Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta proclaimed the Republic of Indonesia free from Dutch colonial rule, reading the short Proclamation of Independence in Jakarta on the morning of August 17. It is the most important national holiday for the world's fourth most populous country.
The day begins with a solemn flag-hoisting ceremony at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, broadcast nationwide, where the historic red-and-white Sang Saka flag is honoured. But what makes the celebration unmistakable are the neighbourhood games: panjat pinang, in which teams scramble up a greased areca-palm pole to reach prizes at the top, along with sack races, krupuk-eating contests and tug-of-war. Streets are decorated in red and white, and communities everywhere join the fun.
Independence Day always falls on August 17. The proclamation was hastily declared after Japan's surrender in World War II, when youth activists pressed Sukarno and Hatta to act, and it launched years of struggle before independence was fully recognised. Add HUT RI to your own countdown page to see exactly how many days, hours and minutes remain until Indonesia celebrates again.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Monday, August 17, 2026next |
| 2027 | Tuesday, August 17, 2027 |
| 2028 | Thursday, August 17, 2028 |
| 2029 | Friday, August 17, 2029 |
| 2030 | Saturday, August 17, 2030 |
FAQ
When is Indonesia Independence Day?
Indonesia Independence Day is held every year on August 17. The live counter above shows the time remaining until the next celebration.
Why is Indonesia Independence Day important?
It marks August 17, 1945, when Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta proclaimed Indonesia's independence from Dutch colonial rule, founding the Republic of Indonesia.
How is Indonesia Independence Day celebrated?
With a national flag-hoisting ceremony at the Merdeka Palace and lively neighbourhood games — especially panjat pinang, the greased-pole climb — plus sack races, contests and red-and-white decorations.
What is panjat pinang?
Panjat pinang is a traditional Independence Day game in which teams work together to climb a slippery, greased areca-palm pole to reach prizes at the top — its teamwork symbolising the communal spirit of the day.