By Anne Das

Feel like taking the kids out of Ipoh this weekend? Just 40 minutes down the road, Kampar has two days of music, cultural performances, heritage adventures and family fun lined up!

The Kampar Heritage Arts and Music Festival 2026 takes place on October 24 and 25, with plenty to see, do and discover. And the best part? Many of the activities are free!

Organised by Soul Performing, Grand Kampar Hotel & UTAR, the festival brings together artists, musicians, heritage enthusiasts and community groups for a weekend celebrating Kampar’s history, creativity and cultural diversity.

With activities taking place at Grand Kampar Hotel, along Jalan Timah and other locations around town, here are seven experiences worth making time for.

Take a Walk Through Old Kampar

There’s something fascinating about exploring an old town with someone who knows its stories. Join the free Kampar Old Town Heritage Walk and discover historic shophouses, old businesses and the town’s tin-mining past.

Discover Kampar’s Tin-Mining History

Step inside the Kinta Tin Mining Museum for a guided tour and discover the industry that helped build Kampar.

History buffs can also explore the Stories of Kampar exhibition, featuring rare photographs, artefacts and accounts of the Battle of Kampar during World War II.

Catch a Traditional Puppet Show

Here’s something you don’t see every weekend! Singapore’s Paper Monkey Theatre brings Chinese hand puppetry to Kampar with a performance inspired by Journey to the West.

There are also workshops for anyone curious about the skill and imagination behind this traditional art form.

Get Creative with Orang Asli Crafts

Try your hand at traditional weaving and discover the skills behind indigenous crafts.

These hands-on workshops offer children and adults a chance to learn something new while appreciating the cultural traditions of Malaysia’s Orang Asli communities.

Follow the Music

Expect a lively mix of local bands, cultural dances, instrumental performances and community singing.

Under the theme Rhythms of the Community, the outdoor stage will feature performances throughout the weekend.

There’s also Melodies in Motion, a special music and ballet fundraising concert featuring young performers.

Explore a Little Culture from Around the World

From Japanese yukatas and Chinese painting to tea tasting and traditional Malaysian games, the international cultural showcase offers a little something for everyone.

Visitors can also explore heritage crafts, including Chinese seal carving and letterpress printing.

Eat, Browse and Stay a While

What would a Malaysian festival be without food?

Browse the food bazaar, check out the arts and crafts market and soak up the atmosphere.

There will also be storytelling, singing competitions and other community activities throughout the weekend.

And if you’re feeling energetic, there’s even a pickleball tournament!

Whether you’re bringing the children, catching up with friends or simply exploring somewhere different, Kampar has plenty to explore.

Mark your calendars, round up the family and don’t miss this one!

Dates: October 24–25, 2026 (Saturday and Sunday)
Time: 8am–10pm (individual activity times vary)
Venue: Grand Kampar Hotel, Jalan Timah and selected locations around Kampar
Admission: Many activities are free. Selected performances and workshops require tickets
Full programme and registration: https://kham2026.soulperformingmusic.com/

Ipoh Echo

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