Christmas in Bali is one of the most amazing times of the year. You can find so many ways to celebrate Christmas on the island, and they’re all awesome.
We’ve got a full round-up of what’s going on in Bali this festive season, as well as a full introduction to Xmas in Bali!
Whether you want to know if the locals will celebrate Christmas or you’re trying to find the best Christmas Brunch in Bali, we’ve got you covered. Check it out.
Do They Celebrate Christmas In Bali?
Most Balinese people are Hindus (or Buddhists), and that means that they don’t celebrate Christmas. The local Muslims don’t celebrate Christmas either.
However, there is a decent-sized Christian community in Bali, and they absolutely do celebrate Christmas.
Christians and Muslims also come together at this time of year to celebrate the traditional practice of Ngejot.
This sees people in these communities preparing meals and sharing the food with their neighbours and community members.
This is done in a sense of gratitude for the benefits that the year has brought to them and to help create friendships and relationships as well as simply to share a sense of happiness with others.
There aren’t many Christmas trees to be seen on a Balinese Christmas Eve, mind you, and that’s because they don’t grow pine trees in the tropics.
Instead, people who celebrate Christmas in Bali tend to use a “penjoy”, a long, curved bamboo ornament that has a covering of woven coconut leaves.
Most tourists will have a great Christmas in Bali, and the festive season here has a nearly endless supply of things to do, from a tasty Christmas brunch at a swanky 5-star hotel to Xmas parties and even the occasional Christmas market.
What’s The Balinese Weather Like At Xmas?
The Christmas period here falls squarely in the rainy/wet season, and while they may not sound great, it’s not so bad – it will usually rain for no more than a couple of hours a day, and it won’t rain every day.
The official figures are that it rains for an average of 20 days in December, and each day sees an average of 9 hours of sunshine!
In fact, Christmas in Bali is the most popular time of year for many people, and you will find that hotels are booked for months in advance and that prices are always high season prices.
We’d recommend packing a light rain jacket for this time of year, though, mainly because if you’re caught out in the rain, you can get pretty wet very fast, indeed.
What Can You Do At Christmas In Bali In 2023?
Party Hard
Not everyone wants a Christmas Eve Dinner or Christmas Brunch, for that matter. Many of the younger visitors to Bali are here to party and party hard.
Most of the pubs, nightclubs and, of course, FINNS Beach Club have a very active entertainment menu at this time of year.
Nothing beats dancing the day away to some of the best international music in the warmth of the Bali heat.
Enjoy A Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner Or Brunch
Some cultures celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve. There are a huge number of Christmas Eve Dinner or Brunch options in Bali to accommodate this.
We recommend opting for a Christmas Eve Dinner in a 5-star resort with a fixed price that includes all the drinks.
That’s the best way to ensure that Christmas Eve is a ton of fun without ending up with a shockingly high bill at the end of the evening.
Feast On A Christmas Dinner Or Brunch
For those who tend to prefer Christmas Day as their day of celebration, you’re in luck too – there are plenty of Christmas Day Brunch Buffet and dinner options in Bali, too.
The per-person rates in the swanky resorts are very reasonable for these activities, and they often have additional entertainment, such as Christmas carols and a visiting Santa Claus for the kids.
See A Xmas Movie In The Starlight
You’ll find that many of the rooftop bars in Bali double as cinemas on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
That means you can watch your favourite Xmas movies in the starlight and have a great time with friends and family.
Do Your Xmas Shopping
Bali is fantastic for shopping, and you can easily get everything you need for an amazing Christmas celebration in Bali.
Don’t just head to the posh shopping malls. Why not try the traditional markets such as Ubud Market or Sukawati Art Market too?
Get Involved In Christmas Activities
Nearly every hotel and resort has some Christmas Holiday activities prior to their Christmas Feast on Christmas Day.
You can easily find family workshops where you can decorate Xmas cookies or a gingerbread house and even gift wrapping exercises.
You might even find a mixology class for festive-themed cocktails that really helps you get into the festive spirit.
Experience A Sunset Cruise
You don’t have to stay on land for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, and you can always enjoy a sunset cruise on a boat and watch the world light up with a nice cold drink in your hand.
If you want to try a cruise, we recommend that you contact the Bali Res Center, the best local travel agent, to arrange passage on a boat.
They can get the most competitive pricing, and because they’re local, they can also ensure you get all the information you need to book a cruise that meets your needs.
Take Part In A Christmas Charity Event
Bali is full of really good charitable organizations, and at this time of year, they often hold events that help to raise money for children who are suffering hardships.
We can’t tell you what the 2023 program of events looks like, yet they tend to be announced very close to Christmas Day, but we can guarantee that they will take place, and you will be very welcome to join them.
Chill On The Beach
Bali is, perhaps, home to the best beaches in the world, with everything from striking white sands to volcanic black sands to choose from.
There’s nothing wrong with opting to spend most of Christmas Day on the beach soaking up some rays and enjoying yourself.
We all have quite enough stress in day-to-day life, don’t we? Just make sure to use sun lotion – you don’t want to visit the hospital burns unit on Christmas Day, either.
Visit Some Of Bali’s Rich Cultural Sites
Bali has so many great places to visit that you might as well head out and see a few before you have Christmas brunch or Christmas dinner.
Tanah Lot, the Uluwatu Temple, Bali waterfalls, etc. They’re all waiting to be discovered, and because so many people are gearing up for their Christmas celebrations on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve, even though it’s peak season, there are fewer tourists at these places on these days.
Get Into The Local Denpasar Festival
This lovely festival takes place in the festive season each year and helps to showcase the diversity of the people and their creativity.
You can enjoy live performances, art installations and more before you head to your Balinese buffet dinner.
42 Specific Events For Christmas 2023 In Bali: Celebrate Christmas Your Way
FINNS Recreation Club – Bali’s Best Family Christmas Celebration
FINNS Recreation Club is pulling out all stops this year to being a Winter Wonderland experience to tropical Bali. Guests will feel like they have been transported to the North Pole.
Tickets include a traditional gourmet buffet available for either Brunch (10 – 1 p.m.) or Lunch (2 p.m. – 5 p.m.), and regardless of which option is chosen, guests receive all-day access to the Splash Water Park.
Expect mouthwatering turkey, stunning seafood, decadent desserts, and much more.
Nowhere else in Bali will give you this kind of experience with a Xmas theme bringing together gourmet food, live music, a Xmas market, carnival games, and a day of water park fun!
It’s just 1,100,000 IDR for adults, 550,000 IDR for children, and there’s a big discount for FINNS Members.
After the day’s fun at Splash, there will be live music from 5 pm to 9 pm, too. This is going to be a really good time, so don’t miss out on creating cherished memories with your loved ones.
Where Is It? Jl. Pantai Berawa No.15, Canggu, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: FINNS Rec Club
Other Potential Christmas Day Spots
FINNS Beach Club, Canggu: The Greatest Xmas Party Of Them All
FINNS will be having one of the biggest days of the year, and there will be some serious partying on display.
The party starts at 10 a.m. and is scheduled to run all the way through to midnight.
We recommend that you book in advance as this event can easily sell out before Christmas Day.
Where Is It? Jl. Pantai Berawa No.99, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: FINNS
Sofitel Bali, Nusa Dua: Celebrate Christmas In Style
Sofitel’s Kwee Zeen has a Christmas Eve Buffet with packages that start at 499,000++ IDR and then another 449,000++ for basic alcohol and 1,599,000 ++ IDR for their premium package.
Cucina has a fine dining Christmas Eve experience with the basic package starting at 699,000 ++ IDR and alcohol packages available, too.
On Christmas Day, both restaurants are back in business with live entertainment, a magician, and a visit from Santa Caus.
The Christmas brunch is 899,000++ in Cucina, and the Christmas dinner is 499,000++ in Kwee Zeen, with alcohol packages costing a bit more on top.
Where Is It? Lot N5 Itdc Tourism Complex, Nusa Dua, Nusa Dua, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80363, Indonesia
Online: Sofitel
The Westin Resort Nusa Dua: Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner And More
If you venture into the Westin Resort Nusa Dua on Christmas Eve, they have carols in the lobby, as well as Santa Claus.
Then there’s a poolside Christmas Eve Dinner, which is 899,000 IDR per guest and includes a glass of wine and free-flow soft drinks.
There is also a Hamabe Brunch and an Italian Christmas Eve feast starting at 650,000 IDR and 1,290,000 IDR each.
Christmas Day sees in-house guests being treated to a Christmas breakfast with a ton of entertainment included at 300,000 IDR per person.
Then, you can choose between Christmas brunch at Prego (650,000 IDR per person) and the Beach Garden for some amazing Christmas seafood at 485,000 per person.
Where Is It? Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua, BTDC Lot N-3, Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort: Feel The Joy Of The Festive Season
If you stay for 2 nights at the Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua, you get free breakfast for the family and either your Christmas Eve dinner or Christmas Day Brunch for free.
Otherwise, you can join the Christmas Eve celebrations at Backstage Food for 600,000 IDR per person (with discounts for children).
Backstage Food Theatre also has an awesome Christmas Day buffet dinner that starts at 700,000 IDR per person, with an alcohol package starting at 200,000 IDR.
Where Is It? Kawasan Pariwisata Lot SW 4 & 5, Jl. Nusa Dua, Bali, 80363, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
Courtyard Bali Nusa Dua Resort: A Seriously Tropical Christmas Celebration
If you feel like a Christmas Eve buffet dinner with carols from local orphans, then the Courtyard Bali is there for you.
The cost is 650,000++ IDR per person, and Santa, along with his elves, will put in an appearance at your table as you eat.
Then there’s a Christmas brunch buffet to enjoy on Christmas Day, which costs 650,000++ IDR and will have food that includes fresh seafood from Jimbaran to sushi and sashimi!
Where Is It? Kawasan Pariwisata, Jl. Nusa Dua, Benoa, South Kuta, Bali, 80363, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
St. Regis Bali Resort: Celebrate Christmas In Luxury
The St. Regis has a pair of brunch offerings – the first is the Boneka Christmas Brunch, which will have both carols and a live jazz band.
This is an international buffet dinner with an excellent selection of foods, including their world-famous lobster omelettes. Prices start at 1,250,000++ IDR per person, and alcohol packages are available on top.
Their second brunch is the Astor Christmas Brunch, which starts at 1,750,000++, and alcohol packages are on top.
In addition, Boneka has a Christmas Buffet Dinner for 1,750,000++, and the ultimate treat is Kayuputi’s Degustation Dinner, which is 2,100,000++ per person. There are no alcohol packages available for the dinner slots.
Where Is It? St. Regis Bali Resort, Kawasan Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
The Laguna Resort & Spa: A Joyful Festive Season Experience
The Banyubiru Restaurant is hosting a Joyous Christmas Feast on the 24th and the 25th.
This will have Balinese Roasted Turkey Guling as well as an Oyster Bar. The price of the feast is 800,000++ IDR per person, and alcohol packages start at 900,000++ IDR. Under 12s eat free.
The Arwana Restaurant has a Timeless Christmas Celebration with a 5-course menu on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Prices are from 960,000++ IDR per person.
Where Is It? Kawasan Pariwisata, Jl. Nusa Dua No.2, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80363, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
Grand Hyatt Bali: Christmas Carols And Much More
Grand Hyatt Bali is offering a Grand Chrissie Dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and you’ll enjoy dishes such as perfectly grilled king prawns and crisp roast pork!
The prices start at 495,000 ++ IDR per person with no alcohol packages available.
If you’re in the mood for something more “fine dining”, then for 1,700,000++ IDR per person, you can visit Nampu, the Japanese restaurant, for a 7-course dinner.
And if you’re in the mood for Balinese classic food, then the Archipelago Buffet Dinner Spread will be ideal for you. This starts at 495,000++ IDR per person, too.
On Christmas Day, the Garden Cafe has a full set of live cooking stations for their brunch, which costs 495,000++
Where Is It? Grand Hyatt Bali,Kawasan Wisata Nusa Dua BTDC, Jl. Nusa Dua, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80363, Indonesia
Online: Hyatt
The Ritz-Carlton Bali: Getting Into The Christmas Spirit In Style
The ultra-luxury Ritz-Carlton resort also has a range of options. On the 24th, they have a Balinese Buffet at Bejana, which is 680,000 per person.
There is also the Festive Buffet at the Sense Restaurant, which is a more international buffet dinner at 700,000 per person.
The Beach Grill, on the other hand, has a fresh seafood dinner that runs to four courses.
On the 25th, the Beach Grill is hosting a seaside brunch, which is 750,000 per person.
In the evening, they will have a four-course set menu that boasts classic Christmas fare but with a unique slant on it. This is 1,680,000 per person.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan Jl. Nusa Dua, Lot III, Sawangan, Kec. Kuta Sel., Bali, 80361, Indonesia
Online: Ritz-Carlton
Four Seasons Resort Bali @ Jimbaran Bay: A Quality Christmas Feast
They’re keeping things very simple at the Four Seasons Resort Bali in Jimbaran Bay this Christmas.
You can enjoy a three-course degustation menu with a Christmas theme on the beach at Sundara.
This is 1,100,000++ IDR per person. You will definitely need to make a reservation if you want to attend this feast.
Where Is It? Four Seasons Resort Bali, Bay, Jimbaran, South Kuta, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Four Seasons
Intercontinental Bali Jimbaran Bay: An Elegant Christmas Eve Dinner And More
At the Intercontinental Bali Resort, there will be a Mediterranean Feast with some jazz musicians at Bella Cucina. This is a very fine dining option at 1,500,000++ IDR per person.
If you’d prefer something simpler (or cheaper), then there’s a buffet at Taman Gita, and they will host some awesome Balinese dancers, too. This starts at 595,000++ IDR per person.
There will also be a fixed three-course dinner at Table D’Hote for 495,00++ IDR per person.
On the 25th, Bella Cucina’s jazz lunch is 1,100,000++ IDR and the brunch in Jimbaran Gardens is 595,000++ per person.
In the evening, Bella Cucina will be serving the Table D’Hote four-course menu, and that’s 800,000++ IDR. And the KO Restaurant will have a Xmas teppanyaki at 1,200,000++ IDR per person.
In addition, there’s live music throughout the Christmas period at The Club Lounge with cocktails and canapes!
Where Is It? Uluwatu St No.45, Jimbaran, Bali, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Interncontinental
Opia Bali Jimbaran: Special Dinners For Your Christmas In Bali
Opia Bali has a special dinner on both the 24th and the 25th. You can enjoy food from their Xmas a la carte menu, and they will provide a free glass of bubbly, plus an amuse-bouche and some world-class petits fours to finish up with.
Prices are dependent on the choices from the menu, but you will need to pay a deposit of 900,000 IDR (which is a minimum spend for a table of 4) when you book.
Where Is It? Jl. Bukit Permai No.2, Jimbaran, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, IndonesiaOnline: Opia Bali
Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort: Beachfront Christmas Brunch And More
This pleasant hotel on the beach in Kuta is offering a buffet meal on the 24th, which has beachfront views and costs 600,000 ++ IDR per person and includes free-flow non-alcoholic drinks.
You can pay an extra 350,000++ for free-flow beer, and there are several other more expensive alcohol packages available, too.
There’s a carnival brunch on the 25th, which is exactly the same cost as the brunch on the 24th. The alcohol packages are the same, too.
Where Is It? Jl. Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
Padma Resort Legian: Holly Jolly Kids Night Fun
You can take your kids along on the evening of the 24th for the Holly Jolly Kids Night Party, which looks like it will be a lot of fun.
There will be gifts, an elf playing games, magicians, movies and, of course, a very tasty buffet meal. This is 350,000++ IDR per child.
Adults can leave their kids in the hotel’s hands and slip off to enjoy the feast in the TENKAI Japanese Nikkei Restaurant, which starts at 700,000++ IDR per person. TENKAI is also running this again on Christmas Day.
Then, on the 25th, the main event is the brunch in the Plumeria Grand Ballroom, which will see a visit from Santa. The price is 650,000 ++ IDR per person for this.
In the evening, you can enjoy live music and a choir in the DONBIU buffet for 650,000++ IDR per person.
Where Is It? Jl. Padma No.1, Legian, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Padma Resort
Aloft Kuta @ Beachwalk Shopping Centre: Live Music For Your Christmas Dinner
There will be a live acoustic act on Christmas Eve to help you get in the party mood during their buffet meal.
This is just 350,000++ IDR per person, making it one of the cheapest meals on the 24th.
On Xmas Day, you can enjoy a two-course set menu, and that’s only 250,000++ IDR per person.
In addition, the Aloft Kuta is running a 90s-themed activities promotion from Dec 23 – Jan 2. This promises to be a lot of fun, so keep an eye out for it when you’re there.
Where Is It? Beachwalk Shopping Center, Jl. Pantai Kuta, Kuta, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
Bali Dynasty Resort: Christmas Day Fun
The Bali Dynasty Resort has already promised that there will be plenty of carolling on Xmas Day and also an International buffet lunch.
This will be in the Sen5es Restaurant and will cost just 350,000 IDR per person with a 50% discount for your kids.
You can also get access to the pool after dinner, which may make this the Xmas bargain of 2023.
Where Is It? Jl. Kartika Plaza, Tuban, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Bali Dynasty
Hard Rock Resort: A Rocking Christmas Eve And Christmas Day
If you want awesome live music and as much entertainment as you can shake a stick at, you’ll find it in the Hard Rock Hotel.
Expect live cooking stations, a chilled seafood bar, an ice cream station and some of the wildest desserts on the island at their Tropical Buffet Dinner.
There is a visit from Santa guaranteed, and they say they will have a unique Christmas choral offering, too.
The price is 600,000++ per person, and the alcohol package is a very reasonable 400,000++ per person, too. This is on both Xmas Eve and Xmas Day.
Where Is It? Jl. Pantai Kuta, Banjar Pande Mas, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Hard Rock
The Stones Legian Bali: The “Greatest” Christmas Eve Menu?
They have a theme at The Stones this year, and it’s “The Greatest”, which we’re going to assume equates to “The Best” as opposed to “The Largest”.
Their three-course meal on Xmas Eve will consist of seafood and some fine steaks prepared by their Executive Chef in Stones Kitchen. This is 665,00 ++ IDR per person, or 835,000++ IDR if you’d like free-flow wine.
On the 25th, they have a full brunch at the Big Fish Bar & Grill, which will have all the Xmas Classic Fare to enjoy.
It’s just 590,000 ++ IDR per person and 890,000++ IDR if you want free-flow sparkling wine; that’s an alcohol bargain for Bali.
Where Is It? The Stones Entertainment Center, Jl. Raya Pantai Kuta Banjar Legian Kelod Legian Bali, Legian, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: The Stones
Jejaton Restaurant, Fairfield Kuta Sunset Road: A Christmas Dinner To Remember
Every day from the 24th to the 26th, there will be a Christmas Together meal in the Jejaton Restaurant.
This is four courses with live music, and it’s just 400,000++ per couple, and it’s even cheaper if you book for four people!
Where Is It? Jl. Merdeka Raya Gg. VII, Abianbase, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
Mamaka by Ovolo: With Christmas Beats
Mamaka will have an amazing 10-course Christmas Eve spread from Ben Harrington. The price of this will depend on what your menu choices are.
There will also be a lovely Xmas Day dinner, which will have tomahawk steaks as the star of the show. Santa will be there too, and again, costs are variable depending on what you want to eat.
Where Is It? Jl. Pantai Kuta No.32, Legian, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Ovolo
Marriott Bali Seminyak: Sleek Christmas Eve Buffet Spread & More
Xmas Eve will see The Courtyard playing host to an international buffer with an Asian accent. This will include some vegan and vegetarian options.
Things will be more traditional on Xmas Day with turkey and Beef Wellington promised. This will be 675,000 ++ IDR per person, and that includes a free drink.
Where Is It? Sp, Jl. Camplung Tanduk Jl. Dhyana Pura No.103, Seminyak, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
Seasalt, Seminyak: Christmas Day Brunch With All The Trimmings
The Seasalt Santa and his Lady Elf preside over the proceedings at Sesalt, and they dispense Christmas cookies to good boys and girls.
You’ll get a fabulous view of the sea during this 4-hour brunch, and your kids will be able to make a Gingerbread House, too.
The menu looks great, and we’d love to try the spiced pork belly, but pricing has not been confirmed as we go to press, and it’s only on Xmas Day.
Where Is It? Jl. Taman Ganesha Jl. Petitenget No.9, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Seasalt
Hotel Indigo Seminyak: Kids Activities Galore Throughout The Festive Season
On the 24th, they’re catering to families in the Makase Restaurant with a full brunch buffet with plenty of Xmas treats. This will be 850,000 IDR per person.
On the 25th, it’s time for a 6-course Japanese meal, which will be served in the SugarSand restaurant. That’s a value for money of 800,000 IDR per person.
Where Is It? Jl. Camplung Tanduk No.10, Seminyak, Bali, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Hotel Indigo
The Corner House Seminyak: Christmas Dinner, Christmas Brunch & Christmas Lunch
The Corner House Brunch is famous for its huge and exquisite Xmas brunch that won’t break the bank.
Prices here are a very reasonable 499,000 ++ IDR per adult, and Kids (under the age of 12) will eat for just 199,000++ IDR.
This is a Xmas buffet that’s always full of good cheer.
Where Is It? Jl. Kayu Aya No. 10 A Kerobokan Seminyak, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Corner House
Santorini Greek Restaurant: Private Christmas Dinner
If you fancy luxury that goes beyond the standard coastal Christmas Eve dinner, then why not rent a villa and private chef for Xmas?
Santorini is promising to cater to your Xmas dinner wherever you want to hold it, and they will bring their packages to any villa in Seminyak.
These start at just 980,000 IDR for 6 people, which makes them exceptional value for money.
Where Is It? Jl. Arjuna No.17, Legian, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Santorini
The Goat: Celebrate Christmas With An All Aussie BBQ
The Goat is an authentically Australian Pub in Bali, and if you’re hoping for a taste of home on Xmas day, then you can do much worse than their BBQ dinner.
They will be serving both brunch and dinner on Xmas day, and prices will depend on how much you eat.
Where Is It? Jl. Kayu Aya A Oberoi No.176, Kerobokan Kelod, Seminyak, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: The Goat
COMO Uma Canggu: Christmas In Bali To Jazz Beats
COMO is promising a very chilled-out Xmas Eve with Sunset Gin and Hazz with a cocktail mixing session and a local Kecak dance performance.
They’re doing the same again on Christmas Day but with a performance from Yoga Funkoustic instead of the jazz.
There’s no brunch offering, just an a la carte menu and cocktails, and you pay for what you consume.
Where Is It? Echo Beach, Jl. Pantai Batu Mejan, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: COMO
Alila Uluwatu: The Kind Of Christmas In Bali That Nobody Forgets
The Alila Villas in Uluwatu are one of the most stunning destinations in Bali, and they sit on the cliffs and offer the most dramatic sunset view in that area.
On the 24th, for 950,000++ IDR per person, you can enjoy their 5-course meal, and they will have a cocktail artist on site to mix your extra drinks.
Then, on the 25th, you can hit their fine dining restaurant, Cire and enjoy Lobster Thermidor, Wagyu Tartare, etc., for 1,200,000++ per person.
If you don’t make a reservation here and do it early, you have no hope of getting a table.
Where Is It? Jl. Belimbing Sari Tambiyak, Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80364, Indonesia
Online: Alila
Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa: Celebrate Christmas In Bali In Spectacular Style
The Clay Craft Restaurant will be hosting its famous Ren Christmas Eve Dinner, which will have live music from local bands, Santa and both local and international food options.
The price is 650,000++ IDR per person for the buffet and 1,200,000++ IDR if you want free-flow drinks included.
Then, on Xmas Day, there will be a Ren Christmas Day Bubbly Brunch, which will be in the Double Ikat Restaurant.
You can expect Santa to drop in during the proceedings, and you will pay 750,000++ IDR per person with a single glass of bubbly or 1,500,0000++ for as much as you can drink.
Where Is It? Jl. Pantai Balangan I No.1, Ungasan, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Marriott
Karma Kandara: Get In For All 12 Days Of Christmas
Karma intends to celebrate Xmas for 12 days, and it will begin the Karma Christmas on the 23rd of December! There will be a tree-lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. that day.
Then, their Di Mare restaurant will have a dinner menu for Xmas Eve with the Bali of Life Foundation present to offer carols at 550,000 ++ IDR.
And their Xmas day brunch is 595,000++ IDR per person.
Where Is It? Jl. Villa Kandara, Banjar Wijaya Kusuma, Ungasan, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80362, Indonesia
Online: Karma Kandara
The Intercontinental Bali Resort Sanur: Suave, Sophisticated Christmas Eve Dinner & More
The Intercontinental Bali Resort will welcome you with a free glass of eggnog on Christmas Eve before you enjoy a 5-course meal in the Layang Restaurant at 850,000++ IDR. Expect both local and international flavours.
Then, on the 25th, they will have their famous Bali Christmas Wonderland Buffet Brunch at The Lobby. This is a very reasonable 450,000++.
Where Is It? Intercontinental Bali Resort, Jl. Kusuma Sari No.8, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Bali, 80227, Indonesia
Online: Intercontinental
Holiday Inn Bali Sanur: A Balinese Festive Wonderland
Holiday Inn has a brunch on Christmas Day, and you can expect Santa to turn up and enjoy some seriously good live acoustic tunes while you eat.
It’s only 450,000++ IDR per person, and there’s a 50% discount for under 12s, which is very fair.
They will have evening meals on the 25th in Layang and Pier Eight with Balinese Fire Dancing. Prices will vary depending on your consumption for these events.
Where Is It? Jl. Kusuma Sari No.4, Semawang, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80227, Indonesia
Online: Holiday Inn
Andaz Bali: A Magical Christmas In Bali
If you want beachfront luxury on the 25th, then Andaz is offering a Village Square Festive Dinner, which will consist of 6 courses!
Reservations are required, and the sumptuous meal will start at 1,200,000++ IDR per person.
Where Is It? Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.89A, Sanur, Bali, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228, Indonesia
Online: Hyatt
Hyatt Regency – Special Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner
Omang Omang is doing buffets for both the 24th and the 25th, and it will cost 825,000++ without alcohol and 1,400,000++ with.
If you’d prefer an al a carte offering, Pizzarria will be doing a four-course meal for 750,000++ and 1,100,000++ if you’d like wine pairings included on Xmas Eve.
Then, on Xmas morning, they have a brunch, which is 450,000++ for the food and 950,000++ if you’d like free-flow booze.
Where Is It? Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.89, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali 80228, Indonesia
Online: Hyatt
Four Seasons Resort Bali @ Sayan- Upper Crust Christmas In Bali
This is going to be one of the poshest and, thus, most expensive Christmas Eve offerings in Bali.
If it’s not Xmas without foie gras and caviar, this is the place to be. It will cost 2,250,000++ IDR per person, and that includes a glass of champagne.
There is no Xmas Day offering.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Sayan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Online: Four Seasons
Nandini Jungle Resort & Spa – Tropical Christmas Luxury
The Dashing Wonderland will host a Joyous Christmas Dinner with an 8-course menu, and this will be accompanied by live music.
This is 1,000,000++ per person on Xmas Eve.
They also have an Orthodox Christmas dinner for Russian guests. This will be on the 7th of January and is 700,000++ for the food and 1,200,000++ if you want 2 hours of unlimited drinks included.
Where Is It? Br. Susut, Buahan, Kec. Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80572, Indonesia
Online: Nandini Jungle
Hanging Gardens Of Bali: Celebrate Christmas In Natural Splendour
You can join the Hanging Gardens for their “Bliss on a Plate” event, which starts with a cocktail class at 2 p.m. and goes to 7 p.m. with live entertainment, happy hour and more.
Chef Ridwan and his team in the Three Elements are doing a Xmas Eve dinner at 1,500,000++ per person with a wine pairing option for an additional 625,000++.
They are also offering an Orthodox Christmas dinner on Jan 7th, which will be 1,300,000++ for food and 2,500,000++, including free-flow drinks for 2 hours.
Where Is It? Buahan, Payangan, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Online: Hanging Gardens
Padma Resort Ubud: Celebrating Christmas With A Focus On Child-Friendly Fun
The Ubud Padma Resort is having a kid’s party on both Xmas Eve and Xmas Day, and it’s just 189,000++ IDR. Expect movies, snacks, games, gifts and more.
Xmas Eve sees Santa take up residence in the Puhu Restaurant, where a buffet will set you back 690,000++ IDR per person.
Then there’s the “Merry Meal” on Xmas Day, which includes an appearance from Santa and an Elf at 550,000++ IDR per person.
Where Is It? Padma Resort Ubud Banjar Carik, Desa, Puhu, Kec. Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80572, Indonesia
Online: Padma
COMO Uma Ubud – A Joyous Christmas Dinner In The Jungle
They’re only opening for a lunchtime meal on the 25th at UMA, but it will be an Italian fine dining event at their renowned restaurant UMA Cucina, which is a very reasonable 400,000 IDR per person.
This could be one of the best value offerings in Ubud for Christmas.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Sanggingan Banjar Lungsiakan, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Online: COMO
COMO Shambhala Estate – A Traditional Christmas Dinner & More
The open kitchen at Glow will welcome you to sample Christmas fare on the 24th, and they will also have a “Betutu”, which is a Balinese slow roast that’s super tasty. Prices vary by consumption for this night.
There’s a 650,000 IDR per person brunch on the 25th, which will have a wide range of international food, and there will also be a Gamelan Orchestra with local traditional dance performances!
Where Is It? Banjar Begawan, Desa, Melinggih Kelod, Kec. Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Online: COMO
Elevate Bali by Hanging Gardens – A Misty And Wonderful Christmas Brunch And Dinner
The Mystical Christmas Meal at Misty Wonderland will consist of a 5-course menu as you gaze out over the clouds and listen to an amazing acoustic band.
The 5-course menu will be available from Dec 20th until Jan 8th and will be 1,500,000++ per person. There are enhanced versions for Xmas Eve and Xmas Day, too!
This venue also has an Orthodox Christmas dinner, which takes place on January 7th and is 1,300,000++ per person or 2,500,000++ if you want 2 hours of free-flowing alcoholic drinks.
Where Is It? Munduk, Banjar, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81152, Indonesia
Online: Elevate
Other Potential Christmas Day Spots
As we go to press, none of these venues has confirmed a Christmas Dinner or Christmas Eve Celebration, however, they all had something in the 2022 festive season, and we’d expect them to do something this year, too.
These places include:
CasCades, Ubud
Daily Social, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort
Conrad Bali
The Apurva Kempinski
The Blue Door, Ubud
Sa’Mesa, Canggu
Copper Kitchen @ Bisma 8, Ubud
Andaz Bali, Sanur
Mulia Bali, Nusa Dua
KYND Cafe, Seminyak
FAQs
What Is There To Do On Christmas Day In Bali?
Christmas Day in Bali is an ordinary working day for the majority of the Balinese people, so you can do anything in Bali that you would normally be able to do.
In addition to that, Christmas Day is a big deal for many of the island’s visitors, and there are many events in the island’s hotels, resorts, beach clubs, pubs, etc., that are designed to help you have a great time.
You can find Christmas Carols, Christmas Day Brunch, Christmas Dinner, Roast Turkey and all the trimmings, a Christmas BBQ dinner, sparkling wine, and everything else you need to celebrate Christmas in style.
If you are of a religious nature, there are plenty of Orthodox Christmas dinner celebrations too.
Where Is The Best Place To Spend Christmas In Bali?
FINNS Beach Club or FINNS Rec Club, of course! FINNS Beach Club is the world’s best beach club, and the Christmas Day party there is legendary.
You can enjoy dancing, great drinks and some of the coolest international and local people on the island for company.
If you’re more in the mood for a festive buffet dinner, then FINNS Rec Club is the place to go. They have an amazing Christmas market and some of the best entertainers on the island to make the day even more memorable.
The per-person costs are very reasonable at FINNS Rec Club, and it gets more popular each and every year. And FINNS Beach Club is often sold out on Christmas Day (so book your tickets today).
What Does Bali Eat For Christmas?
There is no official Balinese Christmas meal because most Balinese people don’t celebrate Christmas, and that’s just fine.
However, you can expect almost every Christmas Eve Dinner, Christmas Day Brunch, or Christmas Dinner (including every buffet dinner) to have most of the classic food options that you might enjoy back home (yes, roasted turkey is usually on the menu).
Depending on where you opt to eat, you may also find that the menu includes some luxury items, such as local fresh seafood and foie gras, and more exotic offerings, such as a Christmas ham Bahn mi.
You may also be treated to live cooking stations that turn that lovely freshly caught seafood into a fresh Java seafood platter to die for!
Is Bali Good At Christmas?
Yes! It’s awesome.
You can enjoy a sumptuous buffet spread or a la carte menu dinner that’s absolutely amazing without spending a fortune per person. It’s like having a mouthwatering Sunday brunch but with all the finest ingredients.
You can meet Santa Claus and sing Christmas carols. You can enjoy all the cultural and other highlights of this paradise island in the Indian Ocean, too.
One of the big advantages of Christmas not being a Balinese holiday is that everything remains open throughout the Christmas period. You can shop, travel, visit places, etc., and they’ll all be happy to see you.
Christmas is a public holiday in Bali, which means that most people have a day off work. You can check all the Public Holidays in Bali here.
Is Bali Busy Over Christmas?
Yes, the Christmas to New Year’s Eve period is the busiest time of year in Bali. It’s even busier than the school summer holiday season.
That doesn’t mean that every inch of the island is crowded, mind you, and it’s not hard to find somewhere quiet and relaxed.
But it does mean that the most tourist-focused places draw bigger crowds than normal.
It also means prices are a bit higher than normal, and you often have to book restaurants and hotels a long way in advance if you want to get in.
How Do the Balinese Celebrate Christmas?
They don’t. Balinese people are mainly Hindus (the Indian faith), and thus, they don’t have a Balinese Christmas equivalent.
There are some Balinese Christians who will celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but they are a fairly small minority group, and you are most likely to encounter them if you go to church during the Christmas period.
What Is Christmas Called In Indonesia?
The word for Christmas in Bahasa Indonesian is “Natal”, and it comes from the Portuguese word for Christmas.
So, if you see an advert for a Natale Eve Feast, it’s an advert for a Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet (and very likely a classic Indonesian buffet) and not some brand new celebration.
Final Thoughts On Christmas In Bali
As you can see, it’s always awesome to celebrate Christmas in Bali, and there are so many things to do in the festive season that you might be forgiven for thinking that Christmas was a Balinese tradition!
From Christmas Eve brunch through to Xmas Dinner, you can enjoy an amazing meal surrounded by friends and family in real style.
And, of course, if you prefer to celebrate Christmas in a rather more energetic style, then we’re looking forward to seeing you at FINNS. Why not book your tickets for FINNS’ Xmas today?
May we wish a very Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Did you know they also celebrate Easter in Bali and Valentine’s Day in Bali too?
