Kelanawisata.id, Wonosobo – The 2026 Wonosobo Homecoming Festival (Festival Mudik) has once again ignited immense public enthusiasm. Among the most popular venues was Karangluhur Field in the Kertek District, which was packed with thousands of spectators from across the country. According to official estimates, the festivities on March 23, 2026, drew an estimated 5,000 visitors, with attendees hailing from both Wonosobo and distant regions such as Bekasi, Semarang, Solo, Kebumen, Magelang, Jakarta, and even Surabaya

Visitors’ enthusiasm was also reflected in the various testimonials shared.

Mbak Ima, a visitor from Jatiasih, Bekasi, shared that the Wonosobo Balloon Festival is always an eagerly anticipated annual event.

　 “The impression of the balloon festival is always lively. I come to Wonosobo every year because it’s fun. Hotels and food are affordable, and the people are friendly. Wonosobo is fun—people from Bekasi, come here!” she said.

A similar sentiment was expressed by Yosi, a visitor from Solo, who was attending the festival for the second time.

　 “This is unique to Wonosobo. The scenery is beautiful, and the food is delicious, like nasi megono. Solo residents, come on down here,” he said.

Kristiana Dhewi, Head of the Wonosobo Regency Communication and Information Technology Office, who was present representing the Regent of Wonosobo, delivered a speech at the event, explaining that the 2026 Mudik Festival saw a significant increase compared to the previous year.

　 “This year’s Mudik Festival is being held at more locations—specifically, 23 sites spread across 9 subdistricts—from March 22 through its climax on March 29, 2026, at Wonosobo Square. This serves as clear evidence of the Regency Government’s support for developing community culture, which constitutes an intangible cultural heritage,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the Chair of the Karangluhur Hot Air Balloon Festival Committee, Yazid, noted that the Karangluhur location is one of the most popular spots due to its excellent facilities and scenic views.

“This year, the Karangluhur Hot Air Balloon Festival is being held in two sessions on March 23 and 24, with nearly 50 participating groups. The Karangluhur location offers stunning views of Mount Sindoro and Mount Sumbing, well-organized parking, and is supported by local MSME stalls serving Wonosobo’s signature cuisine,” he said.

From an economic perspective, the event has also delivered a positive impact, with approximately 70 MSME operators participating. The festival’s execution is considered orderly and safe; the spacing between balloon groups is well-managed, and while traffic around the venue is heavy, it remains smooth.

The 2026 Wonosobo Homecoming Festival has evolved into a hallmark event, seamlessly blending cultural heritage with economic empowerment and solidifying the region's status as a premier national tourist destination

The Wonosobo Tourism and Culture Office invites the public to take part in the festivities of the 2026 Homecoming Festival through to its conclusion.

Writen by Dimas D. Pradikta, S.E., M.M - Adyatama Kepariwisataan dan Ekonomi Kreatif Ahli Pertama Dinas Pariwisata dan Kebudayaan Kabupaten Wonosobo
Curator: kelanawisata.id