The first day is a kaleidoscope of traditional costumes and dances. Cultural performances are offered on special nights by separate regional pavilions. The city celebrates its founding with a Metropolitan Ball. On the eve, several streets including the main business thoroughfare, Jalan Thamrin, are closed to traffic from dusk to dawn while there is street dancing and merry-making. The month-long celebrations before the actual day include social, cultural and sports events.
Prices are usually quite cheap.
Glodok is noted for its many antique shops specialising in porcelains. The most sophisticated and comprehensive shopping centre is the government-operated Sarinah Department Store at Jalan M.H. Thamrin. Souvenir shops like the Jakindra Foundation and Harris Art Gallery carry the widest choice of Indonesian arts and crafts. Hotels Jakarta Govt. Wahid Hasyim 114.