cirebon natural tourism Kalikoa Village is located in Kedawung District, Cirebon Regency, West Java Province. Known for its linguistic and socio-cultural diversity, Kalikoa village also maintains a number of traditional practices that continue to this day.
Kalikoa Village: Sedekah Bumi
One of the most important traditions in Kalikoa is Sedekah Bumi, a thanksgiving ceremony that shows gratitude to God for the harvest and natural blessings. During this event, villagers parade agricultural products around the village. This vibrant procession is accompanied by music, dances, and other creative expressions from the local community.
Moreover, this tradition provides a space where different generations work together to prepare and participate. It strengthens the bond among residents and fosters a strong sense of cultural pride.
Kalikoa Village Cultural Festivities: Tumpeng and Ogoh-Ogoh Competitions
An integral part of Sedekah Bumi is the tumpeng competition. A tumpeng is a cone-shaped rice dish surrounded by various side dishes. Villagers prepare elaborate tumpeng and bring them to the pendopo. Villagers prepare beautifully decorated tumpeng and bring them to the pendopo (a traditional Javanese pavilion for communal events). The village head selects the best one. After the judging, the food is joyfully shared among everyone.
Another creative expression during the event is the making of ogoh-ogoh. These are large, colorful statues made from bamboo, foam, and paper, inspired by Balinese culture. In Kalikoa, the youth reinterpret this tradition in their own unique way, displaying their imagination and craftsmanship.
Haul Ki Gede Kalikoa and the Tax Festival
The Sedekah Bumi celebration coincides with Haul Ki Gede Kalikoa, a memorial event honoring the village’s founder. Every December, this two-day celebration brings people together in meaningful ways. On the first day, residents attend morning rituals. Later in the afternoon, the Tax Festival takes place.
Unlike formal approaches to taxation, this festival encourages tax awareness through fun activities, including games and prize lotteries. It transforms a civic duty into a joyful communal experience.
At night, everyone gathers at the tomb of Ki Gede Kalikoa to perform tahlilan (a communal Islamic prayer for the deceased), sholawat (recitations of praise for the Prophet Muhammad), and remembrance prayers. Although the prayers take place at the grave, the goal is to connect spiritually with God and the Prophet, not to seek blessings from the tomb itself.
To conclude the event, villagers distribute the agricultural offerings equally, symbolizing the principle: “from the people, for the people.”
Nujuh Bulanan: Prayers and Coin Scattering Ritual
Another meaningful tradition is Nujuh Bulanan, a celebration held in the seventh month of pregnancy. It usually includes a siraman (ritual bathing) and group prayers. A unique highlight of the ceremony is curak, a coin-scattering ritual where people scramble to collect coins. This joyful activity symbolizes blessings for the unborn child and encourages generosity within the community.
Although the event is not mandatory, many families still perform it regularly as a way to preserve ancestral customs and bring joy to their neighbors.
Tahlilan Kifayah: A Form of Solidarity After Death
Another enduring tradition is Tahlilan Kifayah, a communal prayer held in honor of a deceased community member. These prayers are held for seven consecutive nights, followed by additional recitations on the 40th and 100th days after the person’s passing. This practice fosters empathy, solidarity, and provides emotional support to grieving families.
Tifaran: Cemetery Cleaning Before Ramadan
Before the holy month of Ramadan, the people of Kalikoa take part in Tifaran, a tradition where the community collectively cleans the cemetery. Everyone participates, including officials, elders, and children. This act shows respect for ancestors and prepares the area for the sacred month.
Tifaran not only reflects religious values, but also strengthens family ties and togetherness among the villagers.
Through Sedekah Bumi, Haul Ki Gede Kalikoa, Tifaran, and Tahlilan, the people of Kalikoa Village maintain strong cultural values. These traditions foster unity and solidarity. Their continued practice ensures that cultural heritage is preserved and passed on to future generations.
Writer: Anggie Diana Putri
