When my family and I planned our trip to Bali, we were filled with excitement. We envisioned sun-soaked beaches, vibrant markets, and, more importantly, the chance to immerse ourselves in the rich culture of Ubud. Little did we know that exploring Balinese culture as a family would open our eyes to a world of artistry, tradition, and community spirit. If you’re looking for family-friendly activities that will help you dive deep into Balinese culture in Ubud, you’ve come to the right place. Let me take you on a delightful journey filled with anecdotes, practical advice, and unique insights.
1. Join a Traditional Balinese Cooking Class
One of the best ways to connect with any culture is through its food, and Balinese cuisine is nothing short of spectacular. We signed up for a cooking class at Paon Bali Cooking Class, which turned out to be a highlight of our trip.
From the get-go, our chef, Wayan, greeted us with a warm smile and vibrant stories about each ingredient. My kids, aged 8 and 10, were captivated by the colorful spices and the excitement of pounding spices into paste. The best part? We all got to participate! My youngest loved mixing the ingredients for our sate lilit (minced fish satay), while my older child diligently wrote down every recipe step like a budding chef.
Pro Tip: Choose a class that markets itself as kid-friendly and ensures that children can actively participate without feeling overwhelmed. Don’t forget to savor the meal that you’ve prepared together—it’s a magical experience to taste the fruits of your labor.
2. Explore Ubud’s Art Markets
Ubud is known as Bali’s cultural heart, and the Ubud Art Market is one of the best places to feel its pulse. Picture this: rows of colorful handmade crafts, vibrant batiks, and intricate wood carvings. As we wandered through the market, I encouraged my kids to barter with the local artisans—a fantastic way for them to learn about local customs and culture.
My son, initially shy, found his voice when he spotted a beautiful hand-painted mask. With a little nudge, he haggled with the seller, using the “sincere face” technique I taught him (a polite smile and an open expression works wonders!). The laughter we shared while finding the right price became a priceless family memory.
Pro Tip: Teach your children some basic Indonesian phrases before hitting the market. Simple greetings like Selamat pagi (Good Morning) or Terima Kasih (Thank You) can create a meaningful connection with local vendors.
3. Enjoy a Traditional Balinese Dance Performance
Another relatively underrated experience is attending a traditional Balinese dance performance. We headed to the Ubud Palace for one of the evening shows, which featured the mesmerizing Kecak dance. The intricate movements and vibrant costumes drew us in, as did the captivating stories told through performance.
My daughter, who has been dancing since she could walk, was utterly fascinated. After the show, she asked the performers about their costumes and dance moves. One dancer, noticing her interest, even invited her to try a few cheeky steps on the side.
Pro Tip: Check the schedule for performances ahead of time, as they vary by day. Additionally, interacting with performers after the show can lead to even more insights about Balinese culture.
4. Visit Tirta Empul Temple for Water Purification Ceremony
Visiting a temple like Tirta Empul can be a transformative experience, especially as a family. When we visited, we participated in the holy water purification ritual. Each family member received a small offering, and after a brief introduction from a local guide, we were ready to step into the sacred water.
I watched my children approach this soul-cleansing ceremony with curiosity and reverence. As we took turns immersing ourselves in the water and making wishes, it became a reflective family moment where we discussed our hopes for the future.
Pro Tip: Dress modestly and respectfully. Sarongs are usually provided, but it feels good to have your own. Also, have a guide or local friend explain the cultural significance of the ritual for a deeper understanding.
5. Craft Your Own Balinese Offerings
What could be more engaging than hands-on creativity? We joined a local workshop to learn how to make canang sari, the beautiful daily offerings that Balinese people prepare for their gods.
Our instructor was a delightful local woman who shared stories about the spiritual meanings behind each component of the offerings. My kids specialized in arranging colorful flowers while I clumsily attempted to weave palm fronds as instructed. We ended up with our quirky creations filled with love and laughter.
Pro Tip: Make sure the workshop welcomes children; it adds a fun twist to the activity. This is a great opportunity to discuss the importance of offerings in Balinese spirituality, teaching kids about gratitude and respect for nature.
Conclusion
Ubud is not just a destination; it’s a treasure trove of cultural experiences waiting to be explored as a family. From cooking classes to market adventures, traditional arts, and spiritual practices, each activity opens a doorway to understanding the beautiful tapestry that is Balinese culture.Reflecting on our experiences, I can’t help but be grateful for the memories we created together. These activities not only taught us about Bali but also bonded us as a family. Just remember, the best way to learn is to engage, participate, and—most importantly—enjoy the vibrant culture around you. So, pack your bags, prepare your heart, and get ready to create unforgettable family memories in Ubud!
