While some may wonder why anyone would feel the need to venture beyond JB, others may find that there’s plenty more to explore in Johor. Apart from the more well-known things to do in Desaru such as the fruit farm and waterpark, there’s now another reason to make the journey across the border – Ombak Festival 2024.
Happening over the weekend of 13th to 15th September 2024, the festival will feature musical performances, food pop-ups, and crafts workshops – a lot of which are kid-friendly too.
There isn’t going to be a single dull moment on that weekend considering there are over 50 events to choose from.
Image credit: Macy Gray
The festival calendar is packed with main stage acts with the likes of international artists Grace Jones, Macy Gray, and The Cardigans. Ombak Festival goers can also look forward to 23 local and regional acts including Alena Murang, Thee Marloes, and Aisyah Aziz.
Young ones aren’t left out; in fact, there’ll be a slew of fun activities catered just for them.
The traditional wayang kulit or shadow puppetry has been adapted to tell the beloved sci-fi story.
Image adapted from: Ombak Festival
These include a silent disco kids edition, traditional kampong games like congkak, and even a Star Wars-inspired wayang kulit.
Image adapted from: Ombak Festival
Kids will get to go on nature tours with JungleWalla Desaru Coast and spot native wildlife such as the white-handed gibbon, pig-tailed macaques, and banded langurs. If you want to bring home a handcrafted souvenir, adults can join their children to make tradtional Malay kites in a workshop conducted by a local wau-maker.
While you’re there, you shouldn’t miss the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark either.
What’s a festival without some aesthetic art installations for your IG feed? Ombak Festival 2024 is no exception; there’ll be plenty of photo spots to show off your weekend ‘fit.
Shore Debris Table – an interactive artwork where participants can remove microplastics from the “ocean”.
Image credit: Ombak Festival
As you walk about the festival grounds, you’ll come across sculptures and artworks, some of which have an interactive element.
There’s also a chance for you to shop from local artists at Ombak Festival 2024 as there’ll be 2 marketplaces. One will be focused on a curated selection of fashion and lifestyle retailers, while the other will feature designs by local artisans. The best part is that all these brands are environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
Now, a festival isn’t complete without talking about the food and drinks on offer. Foodies will be delighted to know that Ombak Festival 2024 will have F&B pop-ups and takeovers from Michelin-starred chefs and award-winning mixologists.
Image adapted from: Ombak Festival
Some of the regions top restaurants and bars will making an appearance including Ember Beach Club, Carbon KL, and Feliz; the latter of which will be serving Latin street food. To quench your thirst, you’ll get to taste Borneo-inspired cocktails too.
So, here’s the thing – Ombak Festival 2024 goers can choose to either get a 1-day or 2-day ticket pass. This is for those who only want to attend the festival as a day trip and then head back or elsewhere to spend the night. More information on the prices of these passes will be released on 22nd July 2024.
Image credit: Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast
The third option is to get a stay package (from RM4,500) with any of the 4 Desaru Coast resorts, namely The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, and One&Only Desaru Coast. These come in either 4D3N or 3D2N accommodations and include tickets to Ombak Festival 2024.
The festival’s opening party on 13th September 2024 is also only accessible to those who opt for the stay package.
To find out how to get to the festival, check out our full guide to getting from Singapore to Desaru Coast. While the ferry is the most convenient mode of transportation, there’s also the option of driving or taking a bus. It’s less than 90 minutes away, so there’s no excuse not to consider this as part of your September weekend plans.
Cover image adapted from: Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, Ombak Festival
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