Sepik Bilum and Basket Show

12TH TO 14TH OCTOBER, 2025 🪶

The Sepik Bilum Basket Show returns for its second edition from Sunday, 12 October to Tuesday, 14 October 2025 at the GC Sir Michael Thomas Somare Stadium in Wewak, East Sepik Province. Guided by the theme “I Am My Cultural Identity,” this three-day festival celebrates the creativity and resilience of Sepik women. Their bilums and baskets—famous worldwide for intricate designs and cultural meaning—take centre stage as tradition meets empowerment.

At the same time, the show highlights an important cause. Through the Pinktober campaign, the event raises awareness of breast cancer while showcasing the strength of mothers, daughters, and young women across Sepik. As a result, visitors experience not only vibrant artistry but also a message of health, unity, and innovation.

What to expect

• Day 1 – Sunday, 12 October: The event begins with participant registration. Meanwhile, stalls featuring additional local crafts open to the public.
• Day 2 – Monday, 13 October: A full exhibition unfolds, featuring bilums and baskets from 32 groups across Keram, Marienberg, Karawari, Angoram, and Wosera Gawi districts. Each creation reflects tribal identity, generational knowledge, and the remarkable skills of local artisans.
• Day 3 – Tuesday, 14 October: The highlight of the festival is the Bilum & Basket Runway Show. Here, tradition steps onto the catwalk as artisans model woven bilum dresses and basket designs. Moreover, prizes such as Bilum Dress Queen and Basket Dress Queen, sponsored by Vodafone, add excitement and recognition to the showcase.

Why it matters

The Sepik Bilum Basket Show goes beyond being a cultural festival—it acts as a platform for women in business. By connecting local artisans with broader markets, the event boosts opportunities in tourism, trade, and sustainable livelihoods. In addition, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Sepik culture and its role in shaping Papua New Guinea’s creative economy.

The festival enjoys strong community backing. It is supported by the East Sepik Provincial Administration’s Tourism Office and proudly partnered by Air Niugini, whose PX Tours packages make attending easy and affordable.

Travel packages

✈️ Air Niugini PX Tours offers special rates from Port Moresby and other centres.

• Travel dates: 12–15 October 2025

• Exclusive perks:

  • 10% OFF for Kumul Club members

  • 250 points for Destinations members

• 📧 Bookings: tours@airniugini.com.pg

• 🌐 More info: www.airniugini.com.pg 

Click: 2025 Sepik Bilum & Basket Show Package

Good to know

• Venue: GC Sir Michael Thomas Somare Stadium, a cultural landmark in Wewak.
• Weather: Expect hot and humid conditions—pack light clothing, sunscreen, and hats.
• Etiquette: Always ask permission before photographing people or their products.