Merti Tirto 2025: Ponggok’s Annual Water Gratitude Festival
Ponggok Village, Polanharjo Subdistrict, Klaten Regency — Sunday, July 27, 2025.
Ponggok celebrated its annual tradition, Merti Tirto. This cultural festival is a form of gratitude for abundant water resources. Therefore, it reflects respect for nature and a commitment to preserve the springs that support local life.
A Celebration of Life and Water
Firstly, the festival started at the Ponggok Village Hall. Residents of all ages joined the lively and friendly gathering. Ponggok is blessed with seven main springs: Umbul Besuki, Umbul Sigedang, Umbul Ponggok, Umbul Gedang, Umbul Kapilaler, Umbul Cobowo, and Umbul Kajen.
Moreover, a cultural parade brought jars and pitchers filled with spring water. This symbolized gratitude and care for the environment. In addition, the event presented gamelan, dances, and wayang kulit. These art forms shared ecological messages about protecting nature for the future.
Voices of Leadership and Tradition
However, Village Head Junaedhi Mulyono explained that Merti Tirto is more than a ritual. He said it also educates people about the importance of water.
“This tradition reminds us to care for our springs. They are the source of welfare for present and future generations,” he stated.
Therefore, Junaedhi highlighted that spring-based tourism has raised the village’s income. It also empowered residents through small businesses and eco-tourism.
Community Participation and Support
Meanwhile, the festival also involved traditional leaders, local artists, and students from KKN and PMM programs. They joined in parades, performances, and workshops on environmental conservation.
Finally, Slamet, Head of Polanharjo Subdistrict, praised the success of the festival. He called on residents to maintain unity, cooperation, and care for nature.
Merti Tirto is more than a cultural festival. It builds Ponggok’s identity as a water village and supports sustainable tourism for the future.
Read also : Tradisi Merti Tirta, Syukuran Masyarakat Desa Ponggok.
Referensi : detik.com/jateng
