SEAToday.com, Jakarta - On November 10, 2024, Boston Commons transformed into a vibrant cultural hub with the annual  New England Indonesian Festival (NEIF).

Organized by PERMIAS Massachusetts, the Indonesian Student Association of Massachusetts, this year’s festival welcomed over 5,000 attendees, cementing its status as the largest Indonesian festival in the United States. The event has mix of both Indonesian and local American attendees.

This milestone event not only celebrated Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage but also highlighted the impact of the Indonesian diaspora in fostering cultural pride and  unity abroad. This year’s festival had the presence of an honourable guest speaker, Pak Winanto Adi, the Consul General of Indonesia in New York. Pak Winanto’s speech inspired attendees with messages of unity, and the importance of the Indonesian culture in the United States.

“NEIF 2024 was a tremendous success, I am so proud of our team putting this amazing event together and humbled by the show-out from the Boston community. I am so thankful we get the chance to share Indonesian culture to Massachusetts.”, said Oliver Tedja, Executive-Board Member at PERMIAS Massachusetts.

The annual festival had a change of venue this year, from the original location in Copley Square to Boston Common. This upgrade of location allows more attendants with the increase of venue space, and foot traffic.

The bustling venue attracted visitors from various backgrounds, uniting Indonesians, Americans, and international attendees. NEIF had over 10 Indonesian food stalls offering all the most famous Indonesian food to share with the community in Boston. Food vendors from across the United States served up traditional dishes like chicken satay, Rendang, Indonesian fried rice, and Es Cendol.

Beyond the food, the festival immersed visitors in Indonesian traditions through performances like Batik-fashion show, and sharing Indonesian music. Live music performances added energy and excitement, with dancers and musicians showcasing Indonesian classic hits live on stage.

NEIF had performers come in from all over the United States performing a mix of classic Indonesian hits like  “Anak Sekolah”, and local American music. The success of NEIF is a testament to the hard work and dedication of PERMIAS Massachusetts, along with the support of sponsors, community partners, and volunteers.

Coordinating an event of this scale is no small feat, and the collaborative spirit among all involved ensures that NEIF continues to thrive. Sponsors and partners provided crucial financial and logistical support, enabling the festival to operate. Their contributions not only make the event possible but also highlight the importance of  investing in cultural initiatives that build bridges between communities. 

NEIF is more than just a festival; it is a testament to the strength and influence of the Indonesian  culture worldwide. For thousands of Indonesians living abroad, the festival provides a vital connection to home, reinforcing their sense of identity while offering an opportunity to share their heritage with  the broader community.

PERMIAS Massachusetts looks forward to building on the success of this  year’s event, expanding its reach and look forward to NEIF 2025.