For 10 days between Galungan and Kuningan days, Balinese Hindus will be celebrating the victory of good over evil. These celebrations are the most important in the Pakuwon calendar.
This time of year is a chance to see this beautiful island at its prettiest. All house compounds and entrance gates are decorated with Penjor, the long, over-hanging bamboo poles decorated with elaborate creations carved and woven from leaves and natural fibers. Schools close and commerce ceases, as attention focuses solely on the devotional activities associated with this special holiday.
During Galungan, it is believed that the deified ancestors of the family descend to their former homes where they must be entertained and given offerings. Offerings are also made at the gravesides of those awaiting cremation and their final release into the world of spirits.
The days before Galungan is called Penyekeban day, the day on which to cover up fermented cakes. Green bananas are sealed in large clay pots and covered with coconut husk in order to ripen them quickly: huge quantities of bananas are required for Galungan offerings.
Likewise, Penyajaan day, which devoted to making many coloured cakes of fried rice dough. These are much loved by the Balinese and are used as offerings in numerous ceremonies. Mountains of these cakes can be seen in markets, as a busy housewife will often not have time to make them herself.
A day before Galungan is called Penampahan day, when many pigs are slaughtered for the traditional Galungan morning feast. An essential feature of the menu is the traditional lawar, a spicey hash made of finely chopped pork and dozens of spices. Five different conds of hash are prepared to make dozens of sticks of the traditional Balinese satay.
The following day of Galungan is Umanis Galungan, when the devotional duties and feasting are over and families take to the road to visit families and friends and really get into the holiday spirit. It's a great time to be in Bali!