Magayon Festival is an annual

festival in May that relives the

legend of Mayon Volcano. The
festival derived its name
from magayon, from
a Bicolanoterm which means
beautiful. This celebration is held
in honor of Nuestra Seora de la
Porteria, Daraga's patron saint.
This legendary, historical and
religious celebration aims to
showcase the cultural life of the
people of Daraga, Albay.

Ati3rd

Atihan Festival
weekend of January | Kalibo, Aklan
This Sto. Nio festival started it all. One of the oldest religious
celebrations in the country, Ati-Atihan is
characterized by a parade filled with
face-painted celebrants, indigenous
costumes and weapons, tribal
dances, and loud drumbeats.
Tourists who flock to Kalibo for the
festivities are free to cover
themselves in black soot and dance
on the streets with the drum beats.
Known as the The Filipino Mardi
Gras, it is truly an experience not to be
missed.

Sinulog Festival
3rd weekend of January | Cebu City
Cebu also has its own version of the festival in honor of the Sto. Nio. If you find yourself
attending the Sinulog Festival, Pit Seor! is a phrase you will hear a lot. It means
Panangpit sa Seor, a Cebuano phrase that means to plead to the Seor Santo Nio.
It is one of the most attended festivals in the Philippines, attracting millions of locals and
tourists from all over the world. In 2013, it was reported that the number of participants
reached a whopping four million.

Sinulog not only sets the stage for Cebuano

talents but also for other regional acts as
contingents from neighboring provinces are
showcased through street dancing,
pageantry, and sports. It is also known for
hosting the countrys biggest raves,
drawing a growing number of party-goers
from all over the country year after year.

Dinagyang Festival
4th weekend of January | Iloilo City
If you happen to know someone
from Iloilo, try and ask them about this
Philippine festival. Youll see how their
pride for their citys festival is nothing short of
astounding.
Once a year, Iloilo City transforms into one big street party streets closed, bands in all
corners, overflowing food and drinks, and towering boom boxes. To cap it all off, tribes
representing different barangays and high schools perform in one very competitive street
dancing contest.

Panagbenga Festival
February | Baguio City
The word Panagbenga comes from
the Kankanaey term that means
blooming. With the numerous parades of floral floats and children
flora and fauna, it definitely lives up to its name,
making Baguio the perfect destination
for those who still have a hangover
from the huge festivals in January.

season of
dressed as

Adding to the usual Baguio tourist

sites to visit, the whole length of the
Session Road during Panagbenga
becomes a feast for the eyes. Called
Session Road in Bloom, Baguios
famous street is closed to vehicular
traffic to make way for flower carts,
street dancing, and outdoor cafes.
Now that its a huge event bringing in thousands of tourists each year, its important to plan
ahead (make early restaurant reservations, bring a map, etc.) if you are attending this
Philippine festival.
Moriones Festival
Holy Week | Boac, Gasan, and
Mogpog, Marinduque
This week-long celebration of the life
of St. Longinus is what makes
Marinduque one of the top
destinations during Holy Week in the
Philippines. Morion is the helmet
worn by the centurions while Moriones
refers to the costumed penitents
reenacting the search for St.
Longinus, hunted by his fellow
centurions for converting to
Christianity. During the festival you
will see Marinduqueos dressed up
as centurions.

Aliwan Fiesta
Last weekend of April | Pasay City,
Manila
Aliwan Fiesta is more of a competition
than it is a festival. However, it has
undeniably added great value to the
growing interest in Philippine festivals.
Although it just started in the early
2000s, it has already gained a strong
fan-base nationwide with more than
5,000 young men and women from all
over the country joining the
competition.
For a lot of people who are in Manila, heading to the CCP Complex is the cheapest way to
see quality performances from tribes representing festivals in their respective provinces.
Plus, its always great to see tribes from Dinagyang and Sinulog give their A-performances to
grab the million-peso grand prize.

Pahiyas Festival
15th of May | Lucban, Quezon
One of the Philippines most colorful
harvest festival, May 15th marks that
time of the year when people in
Lucban decorate their houses with
different-colored produces in an
almost competitive manner.

Pintados Festival
29th of June | Tacloban City
Pintados is another festival in honor
of the Sto. Nio (yes, this is the 4th
of its kind in the list). It just goes to
show how Filipinos want to be
reminded to be childlike in their ways
and to place hope in their children.
This festival has been growing in
popularity because of the contingents
send to the Aliwan Fiesta every year.
fail to amaze. Leyte is also the home
other festivals like Alikaraw, Pasaka, and the
2009 Aliwan Fiesta champions, Buyogan.

they
They dont
base of

Kadayawan Festival
3rd week of August | Davao
City
Kadayawan comes from the
Dabawenyo word madayaw,
a friendly greeting which
means good or beautiful.
Probably the biggest festival in
Mindanao, Kadayawan has
everything all other festivals
have: street dancing, beauty
pageants, fireworks displays,
floral floats. It is a celebration
of Davaos as well as the rest
of Mindanaos abundance;
showcasing flowers, fruits, and
other produces that abound the countrys second largest island. Just two years ago, they
even introduced a week-long street food fiesta in Freedom Park, Roxas Avenue called Kaan
sa Dan.

MassKara Festival
19th of October | Bacolod
City
Colorful masks, street dancing, electrical displays
and best of all the sweet smiles of
Bacoleas! What more could you ask
for?
MassKara is a combination of
the words mass which
means crowd and kara
which means face. You will
see participants wearing
smiling masks signifying a
multitude of smiling faces,
Bacolods title as the City of

solidifying
Smiles.

Like Sinulog, it is also swarmed

by the younger party crowd as it
is conveniently scheduled during the semester break.
There are still a lot of Philippine festivals not mentioned in this list. The next time you book a
flight, you might want to consider scheduling it during that destinations festival dates.

PIYESTA

PAGDIRIWANG NG PISTA
Ang pista ay isa sa mga malalaking
pagdiriwang na ginugunita bawat
taon sa ibat ibang dako ng
Pilipinas. Tampok dito, saan mang
lugar sa kapuluan, ang mga
makukulay
na
parada,
mga
katutubong seremonya, sayawan,
paligsahan,
at
masasaganang
handaan.
Ang
panahon
ng
kapistahan ay isa rin sa mga
pinaka-inaabangang
pagdiriwang
na patuloy na dinarayo ng mga
turista taun-taon.

BAGONG TAON

Tuwing unang araw ng Enero

ipinagdiriwang ang Bagong Taon.
Masayang sinasalubong ito bago
maghating-gabi ng Disyembre 31.
Masayang
sama-samang
kumakain at nagkukuwentuhan pa
ang mga kasapi ng mag-anak.
Nag-sisimba, nagbabatian, at nagiingay pa sila nang buong sigla sa
pagsalubong nito. Ginagawa pa
nila itong family reunion. Dito
ipinapakita
ang
pagbubukludbuklod ng pamilya.

SIMBANG GABI
Ang Simbang Gabi ay isang
kinaugaliang pagdaraos ng Santa
Misa sa Pilipinas tuwing panahon
ng Kapaskuhan.

FLORES DE MAYO
Ang Flores de Mayo ay ang pista ng
bulaklak na ipinagdiriwang ng mga
Filipino sa buong buwan ng Mayo
bilang pagbibigay parangal kay
Birheng Maria. Bawat isang araw sa
buong buwan ng Mayo ay
naghahandog ng bulaklak kay Maria
para sa kaniyang taglay na
huwarang kalinisan at kabutihan.
ARAW NG PATAY/UNDAS

Ang Araw ng mga Kaluluwa, o All Souls'

pag-alaala
sa
mga
mananampalayatang
sumakabilangbuhay. Ang pagdiriwang ng mga
Romano Katoliko ay nakabatay sa doktrina na
ang mga kaluluwa ng mga mananampalataya
sa kanilang kamatayan ay hindi pa nalilinis sa
mga kasalanang mortal.

Day sa Ingles, ay ang

Ang kapistahan ng Todos los Santos,

Araw ng Lahat ng mga Santo o Araw ng mga ...
palansak na tinatawag itong Araw ng mga
Patay, Pista ng Patay, o Undas.

Ito naman
ay
ang Pasko
sa
Aming
Bayan ni Jerson
Samson. Dito
naman,
naipapakita ang pagsasamahan ng mga
Pilipino sa panahon ng Pasko. Dahil tayo ay
isang Katolikong bansa, napakaimportante ng
Pasko
para
sa
atin.
Kapag
Pasko,
nakapagbibigay tayo ng pagmamahal sa
isat-isa, at sa Diyos. Ito ay pwedeng sa
pamamagitan ng regalo, kainan, o kaya
naman sa pagsasama-sama lang. Dito
makikita kung gaano kahalaga sa atin ang
mga minamahal sa buhay. Ang obligasyon
naman na makikita dito ay ang pagmamahal
sa kapwa, na isa sa mga pinaka-tradisyunal
na katangian ng bawat Pilipino.

Ang
huli
ay
ang Barrio
Fiesta ni Fernando
Amorsolo. Dito
naman, nalalarawan ang kasiyahan ng
mga Pilipino kapag may fiesta, pati na
rin ang isa sa pinakakilalang sayaw,
ang Tinikling. Sa mga probinsya,
maraming
mga
kapistahan
na
nagaganap, kung saan nagtitipon ang
lahat ng tao para kumakain, mag-usap,
at mag-enjoy. Meron ring mga sikat na
kapistahan, katulad ng Sinulog Festival,
Ati-Atihan, at Panagbenga Festival.
Naging tradisyon na sa atin ang mga
pistahan na ito. At, dahil gusto nating mahalin ng lubos ang kultura natin, ipinagdiriwang
natin ang mga tradisyon na ito kada taon. Siguro, nagiging napakasayang obligasyon na rin
natin ito.

Paghahanda kung may okasyon tulad ng:

a). Kaarawan

Ito
ay
ipinagdiriwang
upang
maalala natin ang ating kapanganakan at
kung ilan na ang ating gulang.

b). Binyag

Itoy okasyon na kung saan lahat

ng tao ay binibinyagan upang maging
ganap na kristyano.

c). Kasal
Ito ay ang pag-iisang dibdib ng
dalawang taong nagmamahalan
magpakailanman.

JANUARY

1. FEAST OF THE BLACK NAZARENE

Quiapo Church, Manila
January 9
People go to Quiapo Church, Manila to honor the miraculous
wooden black statue of Jesus Christ carried by male devotees
during the procession.

2. BINIRAY
Romblon
January 9
A festival parade in the sea followed by a celebration in Romblon

3. LINGAYEN GULF LANDING

Lingayen, Pangasinan
January 9
Held in Lingayen Pangasinan, it commemorates the landing of
General MacArthurs Allied Forces in Luzon in 1945.

4. ATI-ATIHAN
Kalibo, Aklan
Third Week
The Ati-Atihan Festival honors the 13th century land deal between
10 migrating Bornean chieftains and the indigenous Ati King
Marikudo. It also honors the town patron, the infant Sto. Nio. The
constant, rhythmic pounding of drums get to you, and before you
know it you are on the street, shuffling your feet, shaking your
head, waving your hands - and joining thousands of soot-blacked,
gaily-costumed revelers in an ancient ritual of mindless happiness.
A familiar battle cry reaches your ears, and amidst all this
bewilderment you remember where you are: Kalibo, Aklan. "Viva,
Sto. Nio!" The Ati-Atihan celebration is boomed in many parts of
the country.

5. DARO SINULOG
Dumaguete Negros
Third Week
A moving pageantry depicting Holy Childs conversation of pagan
tribes.

6. SINULOG
Cebu City
third sunday of January
Cebu City's fiesta of fiestas. Distinguished by its unusual two-stepsforward-and-one-step-backward shuffle, thus simulating the Holy
Child of the shores, the Sinulog is a century-old tradition observed
in the part of Visayas region. The prayer-dance is harmonized to the
beat of drums and shouts of "Pit Seor! Viva Sto. Nio!. Feel free
to dance with the best of them, enjoying all the way to the grand
final presentation at the Cebu City Sports Center.

7. CARACOL SA MAKATI
Makati City, Manila
Last Sunday in January
Groups dress as endangered flora and fauna to express the need to
preserve and conserve our natural heritage. Caracol is a Spanish
term for snail.

8. VIGAN TOWN FIESTA

Fourth Week
The highlight of the week long celebration is the procession in
honor of Vigans patron saint, St. Paul the Apostle.

9. APRIBADA
Donsol, Sorsogon
A celebration welcoming the whale shark (butanding) season and
the blessing it will bring.

10. DINAGYANG
Iloilo City
Fourth Weekend
Merry mayhem breaks loose in Iloilo City during this weekend, when
Ilonggos leave everything behind to join in the fiesta of the year. All
shyness are dropped: boring everyday clothes are exchanged for
"Ati" warrior costumes and black body paint. Shields and "weapons"
are held amidst the pounding rhythm of drums, the costumed
Ilonggos put their best feet forward in celebration of Dinagyang!

FEBRUARY
1. HOT AIR BALLOON
Clark Special Economic Zone
Early February
An annual tournament of balloonist from various countries. Features
aerosport shows, kite flying, games,live bands and exhibitions.

2. FEAST OF OUR LADY OF CANDLES

Jaro, Ilo-ilo
The largest and the most wealthy religious pageantry in Western Visayas.

3. FESTIVAL OF HEARTS
Tanjay City
month long
Major festival of romance to highlight Valentines Day.

4. LAOAG CITY AND PROVINCE (Pamulinawen)

Laoag City
February 7 to 10
Features a colorful floral parade and celebrates the Feast of William, the
toems patron saint.

5. SAN FERNANDO, LA UNION

La Union
Februray 7 to 10
Musical extravaganzas, trade fairs and pageants featuring show business
and celebrity personalities.

6. TINAGBA
Bicol
Feruary 11
A harvest festival in which coincides with the feast day of Our Lady of
Lourdes. Main feature is a parade of colorful and grandiosely decorated
bull carabao carts

7. INTERNATIONAL BAMBOO ORGAN

Las Pinas
A 10 day cultural event which features international classical performers
and utilizes the ancient bamboo organ of St. Josephs Parish Curch, Las
Pias.

8. TAWO TAWO
Bayawan City
February 17
Giant, paper mache scarecrows highlight their roles as guardians of
Bayawan City crops.

9. DIA DE ZAMBOANGA
February 26
A celebration of cultural and religious harmony between Christians and
Muslims in this most cosmopolitan of Philippine cities. Marks the date when
Zamboanga became a city.

10. PANAGBENGA
Baguio City
Fourth Week
It's flower season in the city of Pines - perfect timing for an all-out fiesta in
the streets. The Baguio folk take a break on these days to revel in the cool
climate and the unique culture of the city. Multi-hued costumes are worn,
mimicking the various blooms of the highland region (or any of its 11
ethnic tribes). These are flowerbeds - masked, of course, as the
Panagbenga parade floats.

11. SANTIAGO CITY ARTS MONTH

Santiago City
February 1 28
Folk traditions in music, dance and play and a painting contest
featuring home grown talents.

12. SAMBALILO
Paranaque City and Metro Manila
February 1 28
Paraaque and Metro Manila celebrates cityhood with dance contests.

13. SUMAN Festival

Town of Baler in Aurora Province
Third Week
The festival highlights the varied rice cake delicacies.

14. KALILANGAN
General Santos City
Fourth Week
A celebration of the harmonious co-existence of numerous cultural and
religious communities.

15. ITIK-ITIK
Pasig City
last Sunday
Celebrates the native duck (itik).

16. SIBUG - SIBUG FESTIVAL

Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay
February 17 to 26
Sibug Sibug Festival is celebrated during their foundation day on
the province of Sibugay on February 26, with colorful Ethnic Street dancing
with rituals illustrating good harvest, wedding and healing rituals. During
the festival, it endorses its number one product which is the oyster or
talaba in tagalong which has been known to be the biggest, juiciest, and
meatiest oysters in the country.

MARCH
1. KAAMULAN
Malaybalay, Bukidnon
March 3 - 7
Expect the Bukidnon to go tribal from the first to the second week of March, when the
streets of Malaybalay take on that familiar fiesta theme. Banners, banderitas, and beer will
be standard, as well as the sweet, haunting sound of native music. An early morning
pamuhat ritual kicks off the festivities, to be followed by an ethnic food fest, trade fairs, and
a lot of native dancing.
2. ARYA ABRA
Abra Province
March 7-10
Celebrates the founding of Abra Province with a variety of events, including raft and horse
races.
3. SANDUGO
Tagbilaran, Bohol
Month-long (movable)
Highlighted every 16 March by re-enactment of the Blood Compact between Spain's Miguel
Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sik|tuna, which helped forge friendly relations between the two
countries.
4. ARAW NG DABAW
March 10-16
The celebration of Davao's Foundation Day as a chartered city.
5. PINTADOS DE PASI
March 14-16
Depicts the history of the Passi City and how it got its name.
6. HOMONHON LANDING
Southeastern Samar
March 16
A pageant by the seashore re-enacting the discovery of the Philippines by Ferdinand
Magellan.
7. MT. MANUNGGAL
Central Cebu
March 16-17
A Mountain trek, which Darks the anniversary of the tragic death of President Ramon
Magsaysay, whose plane crashed on the mountain.
8. SINIGAYAN
Sagas, Negros Occidental
March 19
Named after the native seashell (sigay). Shell craft art is featured during the festival.
9. FIRST MASS IN THE PHILIPPINES
Limasawa Island, Southern Leyte
March 31
Features a street pageant by the different municipalities.

EASTER
10. MORIONES
Marinduque
Easter Sunday
The island of Marinduque prides itself in being the "Lenten Capital of the Philippines", and it
is easy to understand why. Come the seven days of Holy Week, the people of the island take
part in the age-old ritual of the "Moriones". Colorful warrior costumes are worn topped with
finely carved masks portraying the violent Roman soldiers of Christ's time. All these are
done to show the story of the conversion of Longuinus, the centurion who stabbed Jesus'
side - and his subsequent beheading.

11. LENTEN FESTIVAL OF HERBAL PREPARATION

Easter Saturday
Secret rites of herbalists from the Visayas and Mindanao, who gather in San Antonio,
Siquijor, for the ceremony know as Tang Alap, the combining of medicinal herbs.
12. SEMANA SANTA
Iguig, Cagayan
HoIy Week
Pilgrims flock to the 11 hectare Calvary Hills to meditate on the passion and death of Jesus
christ.
13. AGOO SEMANA SANTA
Agoo, La Union
Features a parade of carriages and a Penitential Procession of women, dressed in black.
14. SALUBONG
Angono, Rizal
Celebrates the reunion of the Risen Christ with the Virgin Mary.
APRIL
1. CUTUD LENTENRITES
San Fernando, Pampanga
16-18 April. Prayer of a different meaning during the Lenten season, when villagers of San
Pedro, Cutud, engage in the act of self-flagellation. This ancient ritual is executed in the
morning of Good Friday during the Holy Week. Backs, arms, and legs are cut and then struck
with burillo beats. The climax to this occasion happens at midday, when penitents are
literally nailed to their waiting crosses.
2. KALILANG
Marawi City
April 10-1 5. The charter anniversary celebration of Marawi City. A celebration of Muslim
culture, including songs, dances, crafts and food.
3. KADAUGAN SA MACTAN
Cebu City
April 27. A complete reenactment of the Battle of Mactan, in which Magellan's Forces were
defeated by Lapu-lapu and his warriors, resulting in the death of the Spanish explorer.

4. TANDUYONG
San Jose City
4th Sunday. A celebration of the harvest featuring colorful costumes and street dancing.
Focuses on the contribution of onions, garlic and other vegetables to the city's economy
5. CONQUER MT. APO
Kapatagan, Davao del Sur
April 1-5. A climbing expedition to the top of Mt. Apo, the country's highest peak.
6. BANKARERA
Penablanca, Cagayan
April 21. A boat rowing race held on the Pinacanauan river in Callao Caves Tourist Zone.
7. CASSAVA
Camotes Islands, Cebu.
Last week of April. Highlights many uses of this root crop. Features cooking contests.
8. BINIRAYAN
San Jose, Antique
late April. Celebrates the re-enactment of the landing of ten Bormeo Datus in 13th Century.

MAY
1. PASALAMAT LA CARLOTA
1st Sunday. Offers thanksgiving to God of Agriculture in Kanlaon Volcano.
2. TAPUSAN
Alitagtag, Batangas
month-long. Celebration to honor the Holy Cross.
3. BOHOL
month long. Celebrations throughout the province, I where sumptuous feasts are prepared.
All Boholanos are expected to return home for the fiesta.
4. PISTA'Y DAYAT
Lingayen, Pangasinan
May 1. Celebrate rich harvested seafood in the province.
5. ALINSANGAN BOA-BOAHAN
Nabla, Camarines Sur
May 1. A fertility festival of pagan origin.
6. CARABAO CARROZA RACE
Pavia, Iloilo
May 3. The race features the fastest water buffalos (carabaos) in the area pulling bamboo
carts.
7. RODEO PILIPINO
Masbate City
May 6-9. The highlight of Masbate's Livestock Week focusing on the importance of cattle
raising to the island's economy.

8. PAHIYAS
Lucban, Laguna
May 15. Honors San lsidro, the patron saint of farmers. Beautiful decorations, made of edible
rice dough, are placed on the exteriors of houses representing various agricultural products.
9. MAGAYON
Mt. Mayon Volcano in Albay, Bicol Region
May 1-31. Pays tribute to the beauty and power of regal Mt. Mayon Volcano in Albay, Bicol
Region.
10. PINEAPPLE
Daet, Camarines Norte
May 1-31. In honor of Daet's main crop, the Queen Formosa Pineapple, reputed to be the
sweetest variety.
11. FLORES DE MAYO / SANTACRUZAN
Nationwide
May
A parade of the town's loveliest ladies, representing the search and discovery of Christ's
Cross by Queen Helena and Constantine.
more on santacruzan or flores de mayo

12. HUNDRED ISLANDS

Lucap, Pangasinan
May 11-12. Thanksgiving festival for the blessings of the unique, natural island formations.
13. MANGGAHAN SA GUIMARAS
Guimaras
May 15-22. Celebrates the founding of province and its famous golden mangoes.
14. BOLIBONG KINGKING
Loboc, Bohol
May 23-24. A music and dance festival of folklore and traditions.
15. PANAGYAMAN
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
May 19-24. Commemorates the establishment of civil government in the province.
16. ANTIPOLO PILGRIMAGE
Month long of May . Thousands of devotees venerate the miraculous sightings of the Virgin
of Antipolo image.
17. BANGKERO
Pagsanjan
Last Sunday of May
A flotilla of decorated boats (bancas). Features the skills of the Pagsanjan boatmen.
18. PAHIYAS/MAYON/AGAWAN
Quezon
11-15 May
Flowers come out in May, but these aren't the only things displayed during this merry
month. Down south in the town of Lucban, Quezon, there's also the kiping - a colorful,

transparent rice tortilla that serves as an edible ornament of sorts. You will see lots of these
at the Pahiyas Festival, an annual celebration held to accompany in a bountiful harvest, and
smashing good times.
It's a free-for-all, grab-all-you-can affair with suman-sweet, sticky native rice cakes-as
the center of contention. It is also the grand prize, so feel free to join the battle. Rest
assured, whether you get handfuls or just a plain mouthful, the Mayohan sa Tayabas will
leave you wanting for more - suman, of course!
Sariaya's own version of the San Isidro festival showcases the creativity and
ingenuity of the townsfolk in their craft and culinary tradition.
JUNE
1. MUDPACKFESTIVAL
Murcia, Negros Occidental
24 June
Oneness with nature is the underlying theme behind Murcia's annual mud-moving spectacle.
Check on its cloudy highlight - a lively street dancing parade with the participant wearing
nothing but mudpacks (well, almost...). It's a safe way to mix our ecological concerns with
good, clean, cloddy fun - just be sure to shower afterwards!
2. PINYAHAN SADAET
Daet, Camarines Norte
15-24 June
Sweet, juicy pineapple is the fruit of choice for the people of Daet, Camarines Norte. In fact,
they loved it so much that they made a festival in its honor. Join the locals as they celebrate
the Pineapple Festival featuring a colorful street presentation set by art exhibits, trade fair,
cultural dances, and sport events. Feel rich when you go for a visit at Paracale Gold Mines,
and be familiar with some Bicol heroes like Vinzon and Panganiban and Lucban.
3. PARADA NGLECHON
Balayan, Batangas
24 June
A different sight and flavor are introduced in June with a festival in Balayan, Batangas,
commonly known as the "Parada Ng Lechon". These luscious roasted pork form the highlight
of the occasion, decorated out in their platforms with all kinds of dcor. Since the festival
corresponds with the feast of St. John the Baptist, be prepared to get wet as people observe
the feast by repeating the ritual of baptism - pouring water.
4. TACLOBAN PINTADOS FESTIVAL
Tacloban City
29 June
Back during pre-Hispanic years, tattoos denoted courage among the natives of Tacloban.
These days they symbolize a cultural revival, and a wild, wild fiesta called the Pintados. Join
the town residents as they decorate themselves out in body paint, imitating the warriors of
old while dancing to the frantic beat of drums.
5. BUKLOG
Dipolog City, Mindanao
June 1-6. Festival features stationary dancing by native Subanons on three meterstructures.
6. BARAGATAN
Puerto Princesa City
June 17-23. Celebration of the founding anniversary of the civil government of Palawan.

7. PILI
Sorsogon
June 20-29. Street dancing showcasing the growth stages of Bicol's indigenous Pilinut.
8. TAONG-PUTIK
Aliaga
June 24. Devotees of St. John the Baptist cover their bodies with mud, vines, banana and
coconut leaves.
9. ARAW NG MAYNILA
Manila
June 24. Celebrates the founding of Manila with parades and sports events and the Manila
Film Festival.
10. SUBLIAN SA BATANGAS
Batangas City
June 26. Celebrates the Foundation Day of Batangas City.
JULY
1. SANDUGO FESTIVAL
Tagbilaran City
1-2 July. The Spanish colonization of the Philippines began with a blood-sealed peace treaty
on the shores of Bohol. This historic event is considered today with an all-out fiesta at the
island's capital city. Check out the Sandugo street dancing parade featuring ten colorfullydressed groups dancing to the beat of drums. There's also a traditional Filipino carnival, a
martial arts festival, and Miss Bohol Sandugo Beauty Pageant, among the dozen of other
exciting activities.
2. KINABAYO FESTIVAL
Dapitan City
25 July. An exotic and colorful pageant re-enacting the Spanish-Moorish wars, particularly the
Battle of Covadonga where the Spanish forces under General Pelagio took their last stand
against Saracan. They were able to overturn the tide through the miraculous spirit of St.
James. The addition of local color and modernism has made this annual revelry a popular
attraction which brings thousands of visitors to the city.
3. FEAST OF OUR LADY OF PIAT
Cagayan
July 1-2. A major religious event highlighted by the procession of the Marian.
4. SAGAYAN
Tubod, Lanao del Norte
July 3-4. The festival has its origin in a war dance that connotes masculinity. Unique in the
fact that it has no religious connotation.
5. PAGODA
Pasig River, Metro Manila
First Sunday of July. The Holy Cross of Wawa is paraded in a specially built river boat
(pagoda), accompanied by other vessels in a river procession along the Pasig River,
Metro Manila.

6. CORDILLERA DAY
Cordillera Administrative Region
July 15. Cultural activities celebrating the creation of the Cordillera Administrative Region.
7. PINTA FLORES
San Carlos City, Negros Occidental
July 1. Participants with floral-painted bodies dance through the streets.
8. TINALAK
Koronadal, Cotabato Province
Harvest celebration.
9. SIMBALAY
Nabunturan
Highlighted by Mansaka Tribal dances.

AUGUST
1. KADAYAWAN SA DABAW
Davao City
20-24 August. Davao's annual festival, Kadayawan Sa Dabaw assures another weekend of
trumpet blast and fun - tribal style. Watch as the festivities reach a glorious peak on
Saturday morning: that's when the Kadayawan parade is held, featuring colorful, orchidbedecked floats and more than a dozen "ethnic" groups dancing to the beat of wooden
drums.
2. ADLAW HONG BUTUAN
Butuan City
August 2
Charter Day celebration of Butuan City.

3. PALO-PALO
Northern Province, Batanes
August 4-5. Cultural presentation of the lifestyles of the inhabitants of the Philippines most
remote Northern Province, Batanes.
4. KAADLAWAN HAN SAMAR
Catbalogan, Samar
August 11. Marking the celebration of Samar's provincehood.
5. KALIBONGAN
Kidapawan City
August 14. A gathering of tribal groups featuring horse fighting and a blood compact
ceremony in Kidapawan City.
6. KIDAPAWAN FRUIT
2nd weak
Featuring cultural shows and a variety of exhibits.

7. LUBI-LUBI
Calubian, Leyte
August 15. Festivities in Calubian, Leyte, which focus on the various uses of coconut and its
by-products.
8. BUYOGAN
Abuyog, Leyte
August 19. Bees (buyog) depicts origin of town's name in colorful dances.

SEPTEMBER

1. BONOK-BONOK FESTIVAL & SILOP CAVE ADVENTURE

Surigao City
9 September
Behind Surigao's talented culture is its original tribal background. The Surigaonons go back
to their roots this month as they celebrate their heritage with a loud, noisy street dancing
parade.
2. PEAFRANCIA VIVA LA VIRGEN
Naga City
16 September (third saturday of september)
Bicol Region's largest celebration is an annual affair that combines religion with culture and
tradition, stuffing it all in a 9-day fiesta of biblical proportions. Stay until sundown for stirring
climax: the fluvial parade as it makes its way down the river, surrounded by a sea of glowing
candles - a fitting end of this truly spiritual occasion.
3. TUNA SA GENSAN
General Santos City
September 3-5. Celebrates the contribution of tuna fish to the General Santos City's
livelihood.
4. SARAKIKI
Calbayog City, Samar
September 1-8. The Filipino passion for cockfighting is celebrated with dancing and
costumes which mimic the movements and appearance of the brave birds.

5. PANAGDADAPUN
Cabarroquis, Quirino
September 8-10. Presentation of 19 cultural groups residing in the province.
6. T'BOLI TRIBAL
South Cotabato
Third week
The culture of this unique tribe is celebrated in South Cotabato.
7. ARAW NG SIQUIJOR
Siquijor
Third week

Solili street dancing depicts the marriage rituals of the locals in Siquijor.
OCTOBER
1. ZAMBOANGA HERMOSA FESTIVAL
Zamboanga City
01-12 October
All roads in Mindanao lead to Zamboanga, as the "City of Flowers" celebrates its grand,
annual Hermosa Festival. The vintas, those colorful native sea boats, once again make their
appearance in a fast-paced, race-till-you-drop regatta. There's also a wealth of cultural and
flower shows, art exhibits, and trade fairs. It's an all-out celebration of life - Chavacano
style!
2. MASSKARA FESTIVAL
Bacolod City
14-21 October
The carnival spirit fills the air as masked participants putting on magnificent costumes dance
there way around the city's main street. This annual event reflects Bacolenos' love for fun
and jollity. Corresponding with the city's character day celebration, the festival features
carnivals.
3. LANZONES FESTIVAL
Camiguin
Third week of October
Lanzones Festival in Mambadjao Camiguin is celebrated with a weekend street dancing
competition and parties, cultural shows, parade and beauty pageant (coronation of Mutya sa
Buahanan) and trade fair that features local handicraft and products.Houses, street poles
and even people are ornamented with lanzones during the lanzones festival.
4. SIARGAO SURFING CUP
1st week (movable)
A recently inaugurated event held at Cloud 9 Break near General Luna, which has placed the
Philippines on the international surfing calendar.
5. IBALONG
Legazpi City, Bicol
October 6-12. The festival depicts Bicol's early history and is named after an early hero of
the region.
6. LA NAVAL
Quezon City and Angeles City
2nd Sunday. Celebrates the victory at sea against the Dutch in 1646. An image of the Virgin
is paraded through the streets of Quezon City in a carriage decorated to resemble a ship.
Also celebrated in Angeles City.
7. CATANDUNGAN
Virac
October 22-24. The festival celebrates the founding of the province.
8. A BATTLE OF SURIGAO STRAIT
October 25. Commemorates the anniversary of the largest naval battle in historywhich took
place in World Warll.

9. FIESTANG KULIAT (Tigtigan, Terakan Keng Dalan)

Balibago,Angeles City, Pampanga.
last week of October
Large street festival
10. SAGINGAN
Tubod, Lanao del Node
October 16-19. Street pageant, where the dancers wear costumes made from banana plants.
11. LEYTE GULF LANDING
Palo, Leyte
October 20. Marks the anniversary of the Allied Forces landing on Red Beach and the famous
return of General Douglas MacArthur to the Philippines.
NOVEMBER
1. PINTA FLORES FESTIVAL
San Carlos City
3-5 November. This city in the sugar-producing island of Negros Occidental honors its patron
saint, San Carlos Borromeo, with a pageant where participants with floral painted bodies
dance in rhythmic beat as they wind through the major streets. The festival is inspired by
the tattooed Negrenses of pre-colonial times.
2. FEAST OF SAN CLEMENTE / HIGANTES
Angono, Rizal
23 November. A fiesta of "gigantic" proportions, this one is highlighted by a grand
procession featuring the higantes, ten-feet papier-mche puppets, surrounded by a crowd of
drenched, water-fighting revelers. Better bring your squirt gun if you want to join the f`un. It
is a water-logged event that is sure to leave you wet n' wild - and wanting for more.
3. KANSILAY
November 5-13. Named after the tree with purple-pink flowers. The festival incorporates the
celebration of Cinco de Noviembre, a bloodless revolution in Silay which overthrew the city
guards.
4. HELUBONG
Lake Sebu, South Cotabato
2nd week
Cultural presentations of the T'Boli and B'Laan ethnic minorities.
5. SANDUGUAN
Calapan, Oriental, Mindoro
November 11-15. Re-enactment of the first contact between the natives of Mindoro and
Chinese traders.

6. GUINAKIT OF MAGUINDANAO
Rio Grande de Mindanao
November 22. Decorated boats are tied together and parade along the river.

7. MT. PINATUBO TREK

Capas Tarlac
November 30. A trek to summit of the world-famous volcano, guided by native Aetas.

8. P'YAGSAWITAN
Maragusan, Compostela Valley
Third week. A thanksgiving festival that highlights the province's eco-tourism potential
9. FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
November 29 to December 8. Highlighted by a fluvial parade and nightly cultural
presentations.
DECEMBER
1. SHARIFF KABUNSUAN FESTIVAL
Cotabato City
15-19 December
Cotabato City's Moslem population celebrates the arrival of Islam to the region with a series
of fun-filled activities. No need to go native to enjoy these - there's a fluvial parade, an
outrigger boat race, as well as various musical and athletics events.
2. GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL
San Fernando, Pampanga
3 December
San Fernando makes the biggest, most spectacular lanterns, at around 40 feet in diameter
and bearing thousands of light bulbs a piece. Watch them all in their twinkling, blinking,
flashing glory in this grand Christmas exhibit.
3. FEAST OF OUR LADY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPCION
Roxas City, Panay and Malabon, Manila
December 8. The Roxas Festival is a showcase of the culture of the province, while the
Malabon celebration features a river procession.
4. OLONGAPO FESTIVAL
December 30
The city's festivities include a lantern parade.

5. GRAND MARIAN PROCESSION

lntramuros, Manila
December 2. Sixty images of the Virgin Mary are paraded on lavishly decorated carriages
(carrozas).

6. CHRISTMAS SYMBOLS
Tangub, Misamis Occidental
Month long of December
A contest for Christmas displays that utilize indigenous materials.

7. TULTUGAN
Maasin
Highlights the town's bamboo industry and the versatility of bamboo.