One of the highlights of Bali in July is the Bali Arts Festival, the island’s longest-running celebration of art, music and tradition. Held in Denpasar, this annual festival brings together performers and artisans from across Bali, filling the stages with traditional dance performances, gamelan orchestras and parades. You can also join workshops, try local Balinese dishes and buy handcrafted works, offering a meaningful glimpse into the island’s cultural identity and creativity. The festivities are primarily held in Taman Werdhi Budaya Art Centre, which is a 40-minutes drive away from Risata Bali Resort & Spa. 

For a more intimate cultural experience, the Penglipuran Village Festival invites visitors to discover one of Bali’s best-preserved traditional villages. Nestled in the highlands of Bangli, Penglipuran is celebrated for its beautifully maintained streets, bamboo forests and timeless architecture. During the festival, the village comes alive with traditional dances, local culinary specialties, craft exhibitions and community celebrations. It’s a rewarding day trip for those looking to venture beyond the beaches of Kuta and explore another side of the island.

While these two festivals celebrate long-standing, traditional arts and crafts, this month also welcomes the Bali Jani Arts Festival, a celebration of contemporary Balinese creativity through visual art, theatre, music, film and innovative performances that offer a fresh perspective on the island’s cultural landscape. Further north, the Lovina Festival showcases the charm of Bali’s coastal communities with traditional performances and more unique experiences like a traditional fishing tournament, dolphin ecosystem awareness and beach cleanup initiatives.