Kuta Karnival (Bali) set for September 11 to October 12, 2003

Bali's Kuta Beach will be alive with excitement September 11 to October 12 this year with the first Kuta Karnival. Kuta Small Business Association (KSBA) is finalizing details for a month long line up of activities centering along Bali's southwest coastline and famed "sunset beach", Kuta. Many other events will occur island-wide. Activities will draw national and international talent, sports stars and entertainers.

Among carnival thrills are X-treme sports events, live band performances, food festivals, fashion shows, traditional dance and drama, art and sculpture exhibitions. Celebrating life and peaceful living, the festival commemorates the New York World Trade Center terrorist tragedy in 2001 and Bali's bomb explosions 13 months later.

X-tremm week, October 2-9, will feature surfing and speed climbing events with the world's top competitors. Beach volleyball and soccer events are open to local and international teams. International Rugby Union and Aussie Rules tournaments will be a part of the celebration, as will the Wismilak International Tennis Tournament, occurring concurrently September 8-14.

Art, music and cultural performances and competitions will showcase traditional dance and theater, sand sculptures and art exhibitions, as well as fashion shows. National and international performers are scheduled throughout the month at Kuta's Hard Rock Hotel and along the beach.

A festive street market atmosphere will highlight international and Asian foods, with discounts at participating restaurants throughout the month. Likewise, participating outlets will offer shopping and activity discounts, along with special sales in a beach market area.

Events culminate October 12, in a colorful carnival parade, peace and remembrance ceremonies, unveiling plans for a memorial and garden at the site of the October 12, 2002, bombing of Sari Club and Paddy's Bar in central Kuta-Legian.

KSBA has said it encourages local, national and international financial and in-kind sponsorships; volunteer talent, artists and assistance; and other local events and activities to participate or join in the month-long carnival calendar.