If you think Ubud is just rice terraces and smoothie bowls, oh baby, think again. This leafy corner of Bali knows how to keep things interesting with its buzzing art exhibitions, live jazz nights, and festivals that bring people together in the best way. If you’re building your Bali plans and wondering what to do in Ubud, these upcoming Ubud events will add something memorable to your trip. They’re the perfect mix of music, art, culture, and a touch of fun — because let’s be honest, a little festival energy never hurts when you’re in Bali.
1. PARALLELS: Legacies in Flux (11 July – 10 August 2025)
If you’re looking to dip your toes into the Ubud art scene, start with PARALLELS: Legacies in Flux, happening from 11 July to 10 August 2025 at Gudang Kayu, Ubud. This event transforms a rustic warehouse into a creative playground with works from over 70 Indonesian and Chinese artists, exploring how traditions evolve in today’s world.
Entry is free, open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, making it an easy addition to your day if you’re seeking unique things to do in Ubud that go beyond the usual café hopping and souvenir shopping. Expect contemporary paintings, immersive installations, and layered stories told through art. Plus, Gudang Kayu’s leafy surroundings and café next door make it easy to spend a slow morning here before heading to lunch.
2. Ubud Village Jazz Festival (1 – 2 August 2025)
Calling all music lovers and casual head-bobbers: the Ubud Village Jazz Festival is happening on 1 – 2 August 2025 at Sthala Ubud, and it’s ready to fill your weekend with groovy beats and riverside breezes. Celebrating its 12th year, this Ubud festival features performances by local talents and international jazz artists, from the East West European Jazz Orchestra (Czech-Serbia) to Germany’s SILK, alongside Indonesian stars.
The vibe? Just imagine lush lawns, wine in hand, and music flowing through the cool evening air. It’s intimate without being sleepy and lively without turning into a sweaty mosh pit. If you’re planning your Ubud Bali things to do this August, this festival is a must, whether you’re a jazz fanatic or just want an excuse to lie on a picnic mat and enjoy good music. Don’t forget to grab your tickets early, they tend to sell out fast!
3. Ubud Folk Festival (8–9 August 2025)
If your dream Bali weekend involves dancing barefoot on grass and chatting with local artists between sets, block out 8 – 9 August 2025 for the Ubud Folk Festival at BIJI WORLD in Mas, Ubud. This warm, community-centered festival blends live music, art installations, craft markets, film screenings, and even lantern parades into a wholesome two-day celebration of creativity.
It’s kid-friendly, pet-friendly, and “you being your quirky self”-friendly. You can join workshops on everything from handicrafts to local dance or simply wander, coffee in hand, discovering the local scene. If you’ve been searching for things to do in Ubud that are off the usual tourist trail, and help you feel connected to the local vibe, this festival delivers in the most genuine way. So yeah, don’t miss this out!
4. Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (29 October – 2 November 2025)
End your year with a dose of inspiration at the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, happening from 29 October to 2 November 2025 at Plataran Ubud. This festival, one of the most beloved Balinese holidays for book lovers, brings together authors, poets, journalists, and readers for panels, readings, film screenings, and live performances.
With panels, writing workshops, film screenings, and live performances, you can tailor your experience — maybe you’ll catch a talk from your favorite author, or maybe you’ll wander into a poetry reading and leave with new perspectives. It’s relaxed yet enriching, set in Ubud’s leafy venues that let you breathe between sessions (and yes, there’s plenty of good coffee). If you’ve been thinking about balancing your things to do in Ubud Bali list with something inspiring, guys, this is your chance.
Ready to Mark Your Calendar?
No matter if you’re a music fan, art lover, or book enthusiast, these Ubud events will bring something fresh and memorable to your Bali experience this year — far beyond the usual things to do in Ubud.
Don’t overthink your planning — just bookmark this guide, pack your comfy shoes, and get ready to dive into Ubud’s creative side while still leaving room for those spontaneous café stops and hunting down the best restaurants. After all, these events in Bali are your chance to experience the island’s culture, community, and creativity in one go. So, which one are you adding to your plans?
