According to the Indonesian Music Promoters Association (2023, as reported by Kompas.com), the number of music festivals in Indonesia will double in 2023 compared to 2022. This surge in festivals is fueled by the fact that around 77% of Indonesians express interest in attending concerts or music festivals (Survey data from Populix). A significant portion of these attendees are young people, who overwhelmingly favor music festivals over other types of live events, as highlighted by data from IDN Times
Therefore, understanding the preferences and interests of Indonesian youth regarding the types of festivals they favor is crucial for effectively catering to this dominant market segment. To truly engage this demographic, organizers should consider factors such as genre preferences, interactive experiences, and the overall festival atmosphere that resonates with young audiences.
Our survey of 531 Indonesian youth aged 15 – 35 years old found that Indonesian youth liked festivals that are accessible, environmentally friendly, affordable, have various artists, during night time, and interactive.

Accessibility Matters for Young Attendees
Festivals that are easily accessible attract more Indonesian young attendees. This includes both geographical accessibility (e.g. location near public transportation or major urban areas) and physical accessibility (e.g. inclusive facilities for people with disabilities or facilities for children). Accessible festivals ensure that a wider audience can attend, fostering a more diverse and inclusive environment which resonates with the values of younger generations.
Youth Preference for Sustainable Practice
Environmental friendliness emerges as a crucial factor for youth when choosing festivals. Compared to older generations, younger attendees, especially Gen-Z, show a strong preference for festivals that incorporate sustainable practices. This includes measures such as waste reduction (e.g., banning plastic bottles), recycling, and minimizing energy use. As environmental awareness grows, young people increasingly prioritize eco-friendly options in their lifestyle choices, including entertainment.
This preference extends to potentially avoiding events that do not support an environmentally-friendly approach. Therefore, festivals that align with these values not only appeal to youth but also reflect their broader commitment to sustainability and climate action.

Ticketing Price Compared to The Same Festival
Affordability is closely linked to the desire for environmental friendliness, as young people are often both economically conscious and ethically driven. The cost of attending festivals is a critical factor for youth, who prefer events offering affordable tickets, food, and accommodations. Many young attendees, particularly students or those early in their careers, have limited disposable income.
This financial constraint makes cost a significant consideration in their decision to attend festivals. Affordable festivals provide a greater perceived value, allowing attendees to enjoy the experience without financial strain.
For examples, Pesta Pora that have highest ticket price is Rp550.000 get more audiences and hype because of their affordability compared to Joyland (Rp1.208.000), Synchronize (Rp900.000), and Wethefest (Rp3.700.000).
Attractiveness of Diverse Artist
A diverse artist line-up enhances the attractiveness of festivals to youth by catering to their eclectic musical tastes. Festivals featuring a wide range of artists across different genres offer a broad musical experience, which is particularly appealing to young people who enjoy exploring various styles. This diversity allows festivals to cater to a wide audience within the youth demographic, providing opportunities for discovering new favorite artists and enriching the overall festival experience.

Night Festival as Substitute for NightLife
Nighttime scheduling is another key factor, often interwoven with the vibrant and diverse atmosphere that appeals to youth. Festivals held during nighttime hours align well with the social and lifestyle patterns of young people. These events often feature a more vibrant and energetic atmosphere, enhanced by lighting and special effects, which amplifies the sensory experience. Nighttime festivals fit better with the routines of young attendees, who may have daytime commitments such as work or study.
Holistic Gig Interactivity
Interactivity ties together many of the elements that young people look for in a festival, including environmental friendliness, affordability, diversity, and vibrant scheduling. Interactive elements such as karaoke sessions, games, and social activities are highly favored, providing a more engaging and immersive experience.
These features allow attendees to participate actively, rather than just being spectators, which enhances their overall enjoyment and satisfaction. Interactive activities facilitate social interaction and community building, critical aspects of the festival experience for youth.
Combination of Perfect Youth Festival
The preferences of Indonesian youth for festivals reflect a combination of ethical considerations, economic constraints, and a desire for diverse, engaging experiences. Environmental friendliness, affordability, diverse artist line-ups, nighttime scheduling, and interactivity are all interrelated factors that contribute to a holistic and appealing festival experience.
By integrating these elements, festival organizers can effectively cater to the values and interests of the youth demographic, creating events that are not only enjoyable but also align with the broader lifestyle and ethical standards of young people today.