Peran Perayaan Tradisi Karo Dalam Meningkatkan Kunjungan Wisata Di Desa Dokan Kabupaten Karo

Abstract

Dokan Village in Merek District, Karo Regency, is a traditional village that still maintains Karo cultural traditions, such as Kerja Tahun, Merdang Merdang, and the Dokan Cultural Festival. These traditions are a cultural tourism attraction because they feature traditional ceremonies, art performances, and typical culinary delights that attract local and international tourists. This study aims to determine the role of Karo traditional celebrations in increasing tourist visits to Dokan Village and describe the participation of the community and village government in their implementation. The method used is descriptive qualitative, with data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of the study indicate that traditional celebrations such as Merdang Merdang play an important role in attracting tourist visits. However, limited promotion is a major obstacle. Collaboration with external parties such as USU KKNT students has helped in digital promotion and improving the quality of events. These traditions have great potential to be developed as sustainable cultural tourism assets.

Keywords: Dokan Village, Karo cultural traditions, Merdang Merdang, Work Year, cultural tourism, community participation, cultural preservation