Pole Climbing for Independence
In many ways, Indonesia’s celebration of independence (held every year on the 17th of August) is much like other festivals worldwide: people take a day off work, dress up, eat good food, and partake in cultural performances. Oh, and they also slather grease onto huge palm trees, stick prizes at the top, and then compete to see who can climb up and claim the goodies!
The game is called Panjat Pinang, and it’s actually practiced year round in Indonesia. And, since visitors are welcome to take part, if you happen upon a group of youngsters trying to climb a slippery trunk during your travels around Indo, ask to give it a bash. Be warned though, it’s just as hard as it looks!
