Special Events

Starting with an empty storefront on Germantown Avenue, Laura transforms the raw space into a magical and colorful art show & craft bazaar with tables, shelves, fabrics, bamboo, and lights that showcase glorious Indonesian handcrafts and treasures for sale, along with her own contemporary batik paintings. “I love creating an environment that is so intriguing you are enticed to come in and explore – and then, once inside, you feel transported halfway around the world.”

We are strongly committed to introducing a broader public to Indonesia and helping them learn about this land and people through special events, most of which are free of charge. The 2019 From Bali to Bala Show featured: a fun opening night party with Indonesian Dancers, a slideshow on Borneo and its orangutans and rainforest, a documentary about palm oil plantations and their impact on Indonesia’s natural beauty, an Indonesian cooking demonstration and feast, a show of Laura’s own slides reflecting her years of travel to Indonesia, and many other events as well.

As always, visitors help support several very worthwhile nonprofit causes. Each year we choose new causes: In 2019 it was particularly timely and important that a special Indonesian dinner helped raise funds for dear friends of hers, a Philadelphia family whose lives have been devastated by an ICE raid. Also, a portion of the proceeds went go to the Orangutan Tree Project, a nonprofit that works with other NGOs in Kalimantan (Borneo) to support the orangutans and their habitat, help offset the effect of fires in that rainforest, and engage young men and women in those communities to replant native trees.  “Each year”, as Laura notes, “In our small way, through our show’s fundraisers, outreach, and sales, we all can join together and help those in desperate need, both in our country and in Indonesia, to rebuild their lives.”

2024 SPECIAL EVENTS that enhance our understanding of Indonesia!

OPENING CELEBRATION with Indonesian Music, Dancing & Treats –

Friday, Nov. 1 @ 6 – 8 PM

To kick off our 28th season, we welcome you to enjoy our fantastic collection of treasures, delicious Indonesian treats and special drinks as Chestnut Hill’s arts scene comes alive on this First Friday of the month. Our doors open for Philadelphia resident Kirsten Spangenberg as she casts her spell with her Dangdut singing, a popular Indonesian fusion of local musical traditions, Indian and Malaysian film music, and Western rock. If her music makes you feel like dancing, be our guest!

GAMELAN MUSIC OF BALI –

Saturday, Nov. 9 @ 4 PM

Enjoy traditional Gamelan music performed by the Gamelan Gita Santi members from our South Philly Indonesian community, led by Professor Tom Whitman from Swarthmore College. Listen to sounds from a world away and be transported.

PASSION, SPICE & CANDLELIGHT DINNER with Chef Diana Widjojo –

Tuesday, Nov. 12 @ 7 PM

James Beard-nominated Philly-based Chef Diana Widjojo, formerly of Hardena Restaurant, and her partner, Jennifer Cowden, bring their acclaimed enterprise, Rice & Sambal to us for a very special evening of fine dining. Highlighting traditional & modern Indonesian cuisine, we’ll explore the islands of Indonesia, filled with all the passion & spice of the region. Please join us for an exceptional four-course dining experience unlike any other! Pre-registration is required: $85 per person, BYOB. Save a spot at this exclusive event by signing up at the shop or with our Evite. We sold out last year, so register ASAP!

Davas BATIK TRUNK SHOW –

Saturday, Nov. 16 @ 1 – 4 PM

We invite all lovers of Indonesian fabric to welcome Davas Batik, a fashion designer from Java, as they bring their innovative style of batik apparel to our very own trunk show. Their collections include unique jackets, skirts, shirts, jewelry, and more, all available for purchase. Each year we love to have them at our show!

DINNER IN INDONESIA: COOKING DEMO & FEAST –

Thursday, Nov. 21 @ 7 PM

Join us as we explore the blend of cuisine & culture from the island of Java with a touch of Chinese influence. The owners of Pecel Ndeso Catering will teach us how to make many delicious regional favorites while we feast on the dishes together. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. Pre-registration is required: $43 per person, but seating is limited and fills up quickly! Sign up at the shop or with our Evite.

STAG & DOE NIGHTS in Chestnut Hill –

December Wednesdays before the Holidays 6 – 9 PM

For three fun Wednesdays – December 4, 11, and 18, – experience the sights & sounds of Chestnut Hill’s many shops decked out for this special holiday tradition. Once again, From Bali to Us is the happening spot on the Hill: come taste our Indonesian treats and tropical cheer!

ART OPENING for LAURA COHN’S Contemporary Batik Paintings –

Friday, Dec. 6 @ 6 – 8 PM

Every first Friday, the vibrant community of Chestnut Hill comes alive with creativity, culture, and culinary delights! Join us as our very own Laura Cohn shares her journey of over 35 years as a contemporary batik painter while immersed in the scent of melting wax and learning about this ancient art form. Of course, Indonesian treats and delights will be offered. Afterwards, stroll the Avenue to enjoy the other shops, galleries, and restaurants open late for this ARTS & EATS monthly happening.

A Night of INDONESIAN DANCE & TEXTILES with Modero & WonderWorks –

Saturday, Dec. 7 @ 6 – 8 PM

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the traditional Indonesian culture through dance performances by Modero Dance Group and learn about the rich variety of Indonesian textiles through a fashion trunk show brought to you by WonderWorks event designer.

PASSPORT TO INDONESIA SLIDE SHOW with Laura –

Sunday, Dec. 8 @ 5:30 PM

Travel with Laura through her 35 years of living and working in Indonesia and loving it. Be transported to a distant, exotic land without needing your passport, and we’ll even have you home in time for dinner!