Solo Batik Carnival

That was the first time for me mingling with the crowd since 1998. My heart trembled whenever I saw a crowd. It is still fresh in my memory: in 1998, a lot of people gathered on the street, burned cars, motorcycles and tires. But in Solo Batik Carnival this time, I felt very different. People gathered together on the street to celebrate! For me, it seems to be a celebration of healing from a lot of bad memories. I am sure a lot of people feel the same way.

People had been gathering together since 1PM at Slamet Riyadi Street, the main street in Solo City (Also known as Surakarta); children, youth, even senior citizens who needed assistance from their children or grand children, while the parade itself would be held at 4PM. It was very hot; around 38 to 40 degrees (Celsius).

Journalists, amateur photographers and real photographers were looking for good places to take pictures. Children were playing around and parents were busy taking pictures of their kids.

A lot of people used that event as an opportunity to do business. The parking lot for cars and motorcycles was suddenly "managed" by local people. Some people needed places to park and some people needed more money. Anyone can sell anything. Mineral water, ice tea, toys even balloons.

Then the carnival begun and I was lucky to be in front to see the parade. That was so close for taking pictures. Unfortunately, I only used my pocket camera, so the result was not really good. However, at least I could capture some of them.