Pesta Boneka has always grown through the hands of many.
What began in 2008 as an intimate gathering of just 5 artists from 4 countries has grown, eighteen years later, into an international meeting point for puppetry artists, audiences, and creative communities from around the world.
Along the way, Pesta Boneka has never been only about presenting performances. Every two years, we create spaces where people can sit close to one another, encounter stories and cultures through puppetry, share conversations and meals, and build friendships that often continue long after the festival ends.
Over the past 18 years, more than 154 groups from 41 countries have travelled to Yogyakarta and shared this journey with us. In 2026, for our 10th edition, we welcome 193 artists from 33 groups and 24 countries, gathering once again as one Pesta Boneka family.
As an independently initiated festival by Papermoon Puppet Theatre, Pesta Boneka continues to exist because many people believe in it and choose to take part—artists, partners, friends, volunteers, audiences, and people who simply want this kind of meeting place to continue.
And you can be part of this journey too.
Your support helps us welcome artists, create spaces for meaningful encounters, reach wider communities, and keep Pesta Boneka returning to Yogyakarta every two years.
No support is too small. Every contribution becomes another hand holding this festival together.
Hold hands with us, and help Pesta Boneka keep moving forward.
To Support Pesta Boneka by Donating
To Support Pesta Boneka by collaborating and partnering with us
