by Isabella Monroe
Looking for something to do?? How about going to a festival? The Philippines is known for its vibrant and colorful festivals celebrated throughout the year. Here are some of the major yearly festivals:
Sinulog Festival (January) – Held in Cebu City, this festival honors the Santo Niño (Child Jesus) with a grand street parade featuring participants in bright costumes dancing to rhythmic drum beats.
Ati-Atihan Festival (January)—Celebrated in Kalibo, Aklan, this festival honors the Santo Niño and includes tribal dances, music, and participants painting their faces with black soot.
Dinagyang Festival (January): Iloilo City hosts this festival in honor of Santo Niño, which features street dancing, music, and cultural presentations.
Panagbenga Festival (February)—Known as the Flower Festival, this event takes place in Baguio City. It features flower floats, street dancing, and garden shows.
Moriones Festival (Holy Week, usually March or April)—Celebrated in Marinduque, this festival features participants dressed as Roman soldiers reenacting the search for Longinus, a centurion who was blind in one eye and miraculously healed by Jesus.
Pahiyas Festival (May) – Held in Lucban, Quezon, this festival celebrates the feast of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. Houses are decorated with colorful rice wafers (kiping) and agricultural products.
Kadayawan Festival (August): Davao City hosts this festival to celebrate its bountiful harvest. It features a parade of fruits and flowers and cultural performances.
MassKara Festival (October): Bacolod City is known for this festival, during which participants wear smiling masks and colorful costumes, symbolizing the city’s resilience and optimism.
Higantes Festival (November) – Angono, Rizal celebrates this festival in honor of San Clemente, featuring giant paper-mâché figures paraded through the streets.
Giant Lantern Festival (December) – Held in San Fernando, Pampanga, this festival showcases giant, intricate lanterns lit up in a spectacular display.
These festivals reflect the Filipino people’s rich cultural heritage, religious fervor, and community spirit. Be advised that these are very popular events, and local lodging does fill up. Plan accordingly and make your reservations early.
