We The Fest 2020 goes online in September


2020 has been a rough year, and it has impacted so many aspects of our lives – including how we spend our leisure time. The entertainment industry wasn’t spared, and has had to adapt because the COVID-19 pandemic requires social distancing. 

We The Fest (WTF), the annual music and art festival in Jakarta that started in 2014, is no exception. The festival, which has attracted large crowds of young people over the years, is becoming an online celebration this year.


We The Fest celebrates music, art, and food


We The Fest 2020 virtual home edition - WTF 2019
We The Fest 2019
Image credit: @we.the.fest

We The Fest – or WTF – is the brainchild of Ismaya, one of the biggest lifestyle companies in Indonesia. The festival typically goes on for three days, and since 2014, international music artists such as Lorde, SZA, Phoenix, and Daniel Caesar have graced the festival stages. Local artists such as Raisa, Tulus, and Sheila on 7 have also wowed loyal audiences.

Music isn’t WTF’s only point of interest, as it has also centered on food, art, and fashion. Visitors at the festival grounds could enjoy watching their favorite artists while enjoying food and snacks, and also could buy merchandise such as tote bags and pins from various local brands.


Experimenting with a virtual home edition of the festival


We The Fest 2020 virtual home editionImage credit: @we.the.fest

We The Fest 2020, which was originally slated for August, had to be cancelled due to COVID-19. To adapt to the current circumstances, We The Fest is turning to the Internet this year to give fans its very first virtual home festival. It is a non-ticketed event that will take place from 26th to 27th September, and all you need to do is register here

Online concerts are no new thing in Indonesia – as many local artists have been relying on this format to entertain fans over the past few months. But many people are most likely curious as to how a relatively large festival will translate into a home concert.

So far, the lineup for WTF’s virtual home edition is still being kept secret. So if you’re thinking of attending it virtually this year, be sure to follow their Instagram page for the latest updates.


You can also submit your music and win prizes 


We The Fest 2020 virtual home edition - Submit your music
Image credit: @we.the.fest 

If you’re an aspiring artist who wants to get more listeners, you can submit your own tracks as WTF is always on the search for fresh talent. 

We The Fest 2020 virtual home edition - Prizes
Image credit: @we.the.fest

Winners will get to perform their music at the virtual festival. Other prizes include a free online course at SAE Jakarta, a school for creative media – perfect for sharpening your audio production skills – and an exclusive interview on Mustang 88.0 FM.

We The Fest 2020 virtual home edition - Terms and Conditions
Terms and conditions
Image credit: @we.the.fest

Before you submit your work here, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully.


Adapting to new forms of entertainment


Online shows might need some getting used to, but it’s important to remember that COVID-19 is not to be taken lightly. For now, practicing physical distancing by watching a concert from home is a safe way to enjoy our favorite entertainment and support local musicians and artists.

Also read:


Cover image adapted from: @we.the.fest

Enjoying The Smart Local Indonesia? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more stories like this. If you have a story to share, email us at [email protected].