Each year, as the landscapes of Perlis shift from the cool embrace of the season to a dry, wind-swept era fondly dubbed as the 'Winter Wind,' the East Wind Festival, or Pesta Angin Timur, springs to life. It's a celebration that not only heralds this meteorological transition but also aligns with the completion of the paddy harvest, wrapping the region in a celebration of natural change and agricultural bounty.

Imagine the air, filled with the vigorous energy of the east wind, mingling with the warm, earthy scent of harvested paddies—a moment where time seems to hold its breath in anticipation. For adventurers with a penchant for diving deep into the heart of cultural festivities and for those with an insatiable appetite for discovering the rhythms of local life, Pesta Angin Timur extends an invitation to experience Perlis in a way that harmoniously blends tradition with the vibrant pulse of nature.

Read also: Popular Must-Try Local Food in Perlis

Table of Content

1. History of Pesta Angin Timur Perlis
2. International Kite Flying in Malaysia
3. Traditional Games & Activities in Perlis
4. Perlis Local Food Market
5. Biggest Bazaar & Shopping in Perlis
6. Live Performances & Show
7. Contact Information

Pesta Angin Timur Perlis is a popular Perlis attraction

Pesta Angin Timur Perlis

History of Pesta Angin Timur Perlis

Pesta Angin Timur or the East Wind Festival is an annual festival held at at Perlis - the northernmost state in Malaysia bordering the south of Thailand. This three-day event features an exciting line-up of cultural performances, delicious local cuisine and traditional games. The main purpose of this attraction is to promote the Malay, Chinese and Thai cultures of the northern peninsula to both locals and curious visitors.

In 2021, the Perlis’ East Wind Festival enters its 6th year while emerging as top three of the most popular traditional cultural events in Malaysia. It is jointly organised by the Perlis state government and the National Department for Culture and Arts. As a highly anticipated and unique cultural event in the country, the Perlis East Wind Festival celebrates more than just the transition from a cool weather to a dry, windy weather each year - but it also marks the post-harvest season for paddy farmers.

This festival gets its name from the winter-to-summer season transition that takes place in Perlis. During this period, the wind from the east is strong and cold, altering the way of life of the local communities in peaceful rural villages which are mostly made up of peasants and farmers. By taking part in this event, visitors can discover the beautiful weather, breath-taking sunset and landscape, and the unusual culture of the people here.

International Kite Flying in Malaysia

Kite flying plays a vital role during the East Wind Festival at Perlis. Enthusiasts not only from Malaysia, but across the world such as the Thais and Swiss make their way to this tiny state every year to showcase their unique, colourful and incredible kite collections. The windy weather paired with the impressive backdrop and large kites soaring in the sky make an unforgettable travel experience.

Kite Flying at Pesta Angin Timur Perlis

Local and international kite flyers can participate in the East Wind Festival in Perlis

Traditional Games & Activities in Perlis

At the Pesta Angin Timur Perlis, you will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of traditional games that were played by the local farmers and their families for many decades. Entry is free and all that's required is a good sportsmanship. Most of the games can only be found in this region, played on muddy paddy fields after the harvest season. It marks the time for farmers to have fun after months of labour and hard work.

There are many unfamiliar yet interesting activities such as hand-catching ducks and fishes and the "metal buffalo" race. There is also a carnival and other fun activities such as batik painting, rice hulling and chili fishing.

Take part in a chili fishing competition at the Pesta Angin Timur Perlis!

Both adults and children can participate in Pesta Angin Timur 

Paper ducks are part of the cheeky decor found here

Ducks swimming in the pond and getting ready for the game

Perlis Local Food Market

Tired after an entire day of exploring and playing? Take a break with a visit to the large food market to taste Perlis traditional dishes that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The amazing dishes sold here include Laksa Perlis, Pulut Kacau, Pulut Ikan Kering, Emping, Pek Nga Nyok, Pulut Nyok and Pulut Pelam. Rice is a staple in this region, and this is evident at the food market!

Food market at the Pesta Angin Timur Perlis

Deep fried baby crabs sold by cups

Kuey Teow Goreng Basah

Aromatic soup cooked for hours using beef and local spices

Deep fried snacks are a hit at this food market in Perlis

Steamed chickpeas as a healthier option

Biggest Bazaar & Shopping in Perlis

Looking to so some shopping in Perlis? Walk towards to theme park and you'll see rows after rows of vendors selling many unique local goods produced in Perlis. You will find anything from edible roots to live pets at this lively and loud bazaar!

A vibrant carnival at the Pesta Angin Timur Perlis

Raw honey straight from the hives

Local roots sold for all kinds of ailments and needs

This pet shop is a popular attraction at the Pesta Angin Timur Perlis

Think twice before buying any animal from the pet shop!

Live Performances & Show

There will be many traditional cultural performances at the festival as well, including live music, beauty pageants, dance performances by children and adults, and so many more. Grab a seat, sit back and enjoy the show!

Live performances at the Pesta Angin Timur Perlis

Contact Information

Pesta Angin Timur Perlis

Opening hours: 10.00am – 12.00am
Address: Please check the official Facebook page for the latest updates
Phone number: +60 49793600 / +60 49793604