Events & Festivals

Filipinos know how to throw a party—and we’re not just talking about birthdays. From colorful street parades to spiritual celebrations and quirky traditions, festivals in the Philippines are a full-on sensory experience. There's music, dancing, food (so much food), and the kind of energy that makes you feel like you’re part of something unforgettable.

Here’s a month-by-month look at the biggest, boldest, and most beloved events across the country.

🌅 January

Sinulog Festival – Cebu City
Arguably the country’s biggest street party, Sinulog blends religious devotion with week-long street dancing, parades, and drum-beating madness. Pack comfy shoes and join the crowd.

Ati-Atihan Festival – Kalibo, Aklan
Considered the “Mother of All Philippine Festivals,” it honors the Santo Niño with tribal costumes, body paint, and energetic dancing in the streets.

💘 February

Panagbenga (Flower Festival) – Baguio City
This month-long flower celebration lights up the cool mountain air with floats covered in fresh blooms, cultural shows, and a massive street parade. It’s like the Philippines’ version of the Rose Parade.

☀️ March

Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival – Puerto Galera
A chill fusion of music, art, and nature set in an amphitheater on a hillside. Think indie artists, local talent, and a creative crowd.

🏖 April

Moriones Festival – Marinduque
Holy Week in the Philippines gets a dramatic twist with Roman soldier costumes and reenactments of the story of Longinus. Equal parts spiritual and theatrical.

☀️ May

Pahiyas Festival – Lucban, Quezon
Locals decorate their homes with colorful rice wafers, vegetables, and handmade crafts to give thanks for a good harvest. It’s artsy, delicious, and totally Instagrammable.

🌧 June

Independence Day – Nationwide (June 12)
Parades, flags, and local pride. It’s a national holiday, so expect celebrations in town plazas and city squares across the country.

🌧 July

Sandugo Festival – Tagbilaran, Bohol
Celebrates the historic blood compact between a local chieftain and a Spanish explorer. Expect street dancing, cultural shows, and historical reenactments.

🌧 August

Kadayawan Festival – Davao City
A vibrant showcase of indigenous culture, floral floats, and tribal performances. This harvest festival honors the bounty of the land—and the people who care for it.

🌦 September

T’nalak Festival – South Cotabato
Named after a traditional woven cloth of the T’boli people, this festival highlights Mindanao’s rich indigenous heritage with parades, exhibits, and dance contests.

🌦 October

MassKara Festival – Bacolod City
A must-see! Known as the “Festival of Smiles,” MassKara brings out colorful masks, glittery costumes, and contagious street energy that rivals Rio Carnival—rain or shine.

🎄 November

Higantes Festival – Angono, Rizal
Giant papier-mâché figures roam the streets in a mix of art, folklore, and fiesta fun. It’s quirky, creative, and super local.

🎄 December

Simbang Gabi – Nationwide
This nine-day pre-Christmas dawn mass tradition turns into a festive food crawl. Wake up early, attend mass, and treat yourself to bibingka and puto bumbong after.

Giant Lantern Festival – San Fernando, Pampanga
A dazzling competition of massive, glowing lanterns—some as big as trucks. It’s the Philippines' version of a light show, and it’s magical.

✨ Festival Tips

• Book early: Major festivals = packed hotels. Reserve in advance!

• Join in: Don’t just watch—dance, eat, and enjoy with the locals.

• Stay hydrated: Between the heat and the partying, you’ll need it.

• Respect traditions: Many festivals have deep cultural or religious roots. Dress modestly when needed and be mindful of local customs.