Kaamatan or Pesta Kaamatan is a form of harvest festival celebrated annually in the state of Sabah in Malaysia. It is normally celebrated by the ethnic Kadazan-Dusuns, as well as by other related ethnic groups in the state, and lasts for the whole of the month of May, ending with a public holiday on the 30–31 May.
The traditional Kaamatan Festival is a colourful occasion that involves, amongst other big events, the city-level crowning of the Unduk Ngadau (Harvest Beauty Queen) and Sungdoi (Kadazan Idol).
The Harvest Festival features cultural activities, traditional displays, singing, lots of dancing and, of course, traditional and not-so-traditional alcoholic beverages – the focus of the event for many attendees.
Basically it’s Sabah’s biggest party of the year and the Harvest Festival draws thousands of people, local and visitors, to the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA), which is hub of activities.It’s a great opportunity for visitors to experience the hospitality and celebrations of Sabahans.