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Gawai Dayak

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant and colorful celebrations of Gawai Dayak, a festival that celebrates the indigenous culture and heritage of Sarawak!

Tuesday

June 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJune 1

OBSERVED INIndonesia

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYIndigenous

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready for a vibrant and cultural celebration on June 1 with Gawai Dayak! This day is a festival celebrated by the Dayak people in Sarawak, Malaysia, to honor their rice farming traditions and give thanks for a bountiful harvest. It's also known as the Harvest Festival and involves traditional rituals, dancing, music, and feasting. The festivities typically last for two days and are a time of joy and unity among the Dayak community. So grab your traditional costumes and join in on this colorful celebration of culture and gratitude!

TIMELINE

Gawai Dayak Timeline

Inception of Gawai Dayak

In the mid-1800s, the ancestors of today's Dayak community first start celebrating their traditions of rice farming and harvest, which forms the basis of what we now know as Gawai Dayak.

Recognition as Public Holiday

Gawai Dayak was officially recognized as a public holiday in Sarawak following Malaysia's independence and the formation of the Malaysian Federation.

First Muai Antu Raja Ceremony

In this year, the Muai Antu Raja ceremony to appease the spirits was first introduced as a part of official Gawai Dayak events, allowing participants to honor the ancestors in a communal setting.

Inaugural World Harvest Festival

The first World Harvest Festival was held, which is now regarded as one of the grandest celebrations of Gawai Dayak and has significantly increased its prominence worldwide.

Gawai Dayak goes Digital

For the first time ever, Gawai Dayak festivities are shared worldwide through live streamings and social media platforms, expanding its reach to a global audience.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Gawai Dayak

Attend a Gawai Dayak festival

Immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the Dayak people by attending a Gawai Dayak festival. Experience traditional dances, music, food, and rituals.

LEARN

Learn about Dayak culture

Take the time to learn about the history, customs, and beliefs of the Dayak people. This will deepen your understanding and appreciation for Gawai Dayak.

COOK

Cook a traditional Dayak dish

Get in touch with your culinary skills and prepare a traditional Dayak dish to celebrate Gawai Dayak. You can find recipes online or ask a Dayak friend for their family recipe.

CREATE

Create Dayak-inspired crafts

Get crafty and make some Dayak-inspired decorations or artwork to display in your home. This is a great way to honor the culture and add some unique pieces to your decor.

Share Gawai Dayak with friends

Invite friends over and introduce them to Gawai Dayak. Share the history and traditions behind the holiday, and maybe even cook a traditional dish together.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Gawai Dayak

It's a fun and festive celebration

Gawai Dayak is known for its lively atmosphere and colorful festivities. There are traditional dances, music performances, and games that add to the excitement of the holiday. It's a time for joy and celebration, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

It celebrates the culture and traditions of the Dayak people

Gawai Dayak is a festival celebrated by the indigenous Dayak people in Borneo, Malaysia. It is a time to honor their customs, beliefs, and way of life. This holiday allows us to learn more about this unique culture and appreciate its rich history.

It promotes unity and harmony

Gawai Dayak is a time for family and community bonding. People come together to celebrate, share traditional food, and participate in cultural activities. This holiday promotes unity and harmony among the Dayak people and helps to preserve their cultural identity.