Fiestas are fundamental to Filipino culture. Every city and barrio celebrate at least one local festival of their own, often on the feast day of their patron saint but occasionally to mark a particular season. Consequently, a fiesta is always taking place somewhere in the nation. However, these festivals are unique because the entire city participates in the activities, which last all day and occasionally for weeks. There is unlimited access to food and beverages, dancing, music, and other forms of enjoyment.
Lechon, a whole roasted pig, is one of the most often made dishes during a fiesta and is a traditional celebratory treat in the Philippines. Pork or chicken adobo, the nation’s designated national cuisine, comes in second place very closely. The environment of kindness and giving that one experiences during a Filipino fiesta is more memorable than the food items.
If food is their soul in the Philippines, dancing is at the center of fiestas. In extravagant, vibrant costumes that change depending on the holiday, natives in the Philippines take over the streets as they parade through the city. It is typical for locals to travel to various parts of the city to witness or join in these activities, which last all day. Anyone is welcome to participate in the celebrations, especially the street dancing, whether they are a native or just a passing visitor. Participating in one of these fiestas is the best way to ingratiate oneself with the local culture in the Philippines.
Below are the major Philippine Fiestas / Festivals
Sinulog
Ati-Atihan
MassKara
Panagbenga
Pahiyas
The Philippine fiesta is much more than what is depicted online. No matter where you are, you are expected to attend. The event brings Filipinos from a particular region or area together and provides an opportunity to reconnect with their extended family and fellow countrymen and women.
It is a time to celebrate friendship, give everything you have, put money aside, and be glad you have enough to feed aside, and glad you have enough to feed and entertain others if you can!