1001 Sandalwood Horse Parade & Ikat Tenun

This grand government-sponsored festival celebrates the two most iconic exports of Sumba: the Sandalwood pony and Ikat textiles. In July 2026, over a thousand horses will parade through the streets of Waingapu, adorned in traditional finery. The event also features massive exhibitions of hand-woven Ikat, where master weavers demonstrate the intricate ‘tie-dye’ process. It is a major gathering that brings together clans from across the island to showcase their regional pride and artistic excellence.