PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Bandung City Government reopened the Bandung Square area to the public during the Independence Day celebrations, (17/8/2026).

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan said the opening was combined with a people's party and various competitions that residents could participate in.

"After the August 17th ceremony, we will hold a people's celebration at the town square. The town square will open on August 17th. We will celebrate the August 17th there," said Farhan at Bandung City Hall on Tuesday (August 11, 2026).

The people's festival featured typical independence games, such as cracker eating competitions and sack races to entertain the residents.

"It's a people's party, with cracker races and cracker-eating contests. It's a people's party, and everything is just as fun there," he said.

Farhan invited residents to take part in the competition in a relaxed manner because the activity prioritizes togetherness and community joy.

"Tong competitive teuing, da ieu mah moal intake for the Olympics. Resepeun hungkul ieu mah," he said jokingly.

Residents do not need to register well in advance because participants can register directly at the competition location.

"Yes, directly at the location," said Farhan.

The Bandung City Government also prepared prizes for competition participants to add to the excitement of the people's party in the Bandung Square area.

After opening, the public is obliged to maintain cleanliness and comply with prohibitions on eating and smoking in certain areas.

"The most important special rules are no eating or smoking. Playing is allowed. Maintain cleanliness," he said.

The game rules also regulate the equipment of participants in certain competitions, including the use of footwear during sack races.

Farhan ensured that the Bandung City Government is ready to repair facilities if they are damaged again due to community activities.

"No, but it's broken, I'll brush it, I'll have less," he said.

The reopening of Bandung Square is expected to revive the public space as a place for community gathering and activities.

"Basically, it's a recipe, God willing. It's a people's party," concluded Farhan.

(Bandung City Communications and Information Service/bhf)