Events & Festivals
From Chinese New Year lion dances to Hindu kavadi processions, Malay night markets to Buddhist temple ceremonies -- Penang's multicultural calendar is packed with celebrations year-round
What's On in Penang
Events in June 2026
Penang International Food Festival
A month-long celebration of Penang's legendary food scene with island-wide food trails, chef demos, cooking competitions, and showcases of hawker legends.
George Town World Heritage City Day
George Town marks its UNESCO World Heritage anniversary on July 7 with free guided walks, open houses at historic buildings, and community performances across the heritage zone.
Event Calendar
Penang International Food Festival
A month-long celebration of Penang's legendary food scene with island-wide food trails, chef demos, cooking competitions, and showcases of hawker legends.
George Town World Heritage City Day
George Town marks its UNESCO World Heritage anniversary on July 7 with free guided walks, open houses at historic buildings, and community performances across the heritage zone.
Penang Hill Festival
Three days of music, art, and nature education on Penang Hill — sunset performances against panoramic views over George Town, biodiversity walks, and art installations among old-growth rainforest.
St. Anne's Feast Day — Malaysia's Largest Catholic Pilgrimage
The Church of St. Anne in Bukit Mertajam hosts Malaysia's largest Catholic pilgrimage on July 26 — tens of thousands of pilgrims from multiple faiths attend the candlelit midnight procession.
George Town Festival
Penang's premier arts event transforms George Town's heritage zone into an open-air gallery with international theatre, dance, music, and visual arts across heritage buildings.
Hungry Ghost Festival
Penang's Chinese communities honour wandering spirits with elaborate street operas (getai), ceremonial paper-burning, and lavish food offerings during the seventh lunar month.
Maulidur Rasul — Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
Maulidur Rasul celebrates the Prophet Muhammad's birthday in September or October, marked in Penang by a major state procession through George Town. One of the island's largest community events.
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