The Philippines, with its rich history and diverse culture, is a country that boasts a vibrant array of festivals celebrated year-round. September, in particular, is a month filled with cultural events that offer unique insights into the country’s traditions, heritage, and community spirit. This article will explore several key festivals happening in September, providing details on each event, the dates, activities to partake in, and the best times to visit.
Table of Contents
- Sarakiki Hadand Festival
- Handuraw Festival
- Victory Day
- Sinab’badan Tribal Festival
- Padul-ong Festival
- Minuluan Festival
- Linggo ng Bulakan
- Banok-Banok Maradjao Karadjao Festival
- Buyloganay Festival
- Anniversary of the Battle of Pulang Lupa
- Bislig City Charter Day
- Voyadores Festival
- Talakudong Festival
- Patabang Festival
- Anihan Festival
- Dalit Festival
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| Minuluan Festival |
1. Sarakiki-Hadang Festival
Location: Calbayog City, Western Samar
Date: September 7
The Sarakiki-Hadang Festival is an annual celebration held in Calbayog City, Western Samar. This festival is a vivid reflection of the region's cultural heritage and showcases the indigenous practices of the Waray people. The term "Sarakiki" refers to the ritualistic dance movements imitating the movements of chickens, believed to be a form of offering to the gods. Meanwhile, "Hadang" is the ritual itself, which aims to appease spirits for a bountiful harvest and protection from harm.
Things to Do:
- Watch the Sarakiki Dance: Local performers don vibrant costumes and perform intricate dances inspired by chicken movements.
- Participate in Rituals: Visitors can witness or even join the locals in the Hadang rituals, which are deeply rooted in animistic traditions.
- Explore Calbayog City: Take the opportunity to explore the city's natural attractions, such as waterfalls, caves, and the scenic coastal areas.
Best Time to Go:
Plan your visit a day or two before the festival to fully experience the pre-festival activities and explore the city's sights without the crowds.
2. Handuraw Festival
Location: Leon, Iloilo
Date: September 1
Handuraw Festival in Leon, Iloilo, is a vibrant celebration of the town's rich history and cultural heritage. "Handuraw," a Hiligaynon term meaning "to reminisce" or "to reflect," captures the essence of this festival. It commemorates the town's history, particularly its role in the revolution against Spanish colonization.
Things to Do:
- Join the Parade: The festival features a grand parade showcasing the colorful history of Leon, with participants dressed in period costumes.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy various cultural performances, including traditional dances and musical presentations that depict the town's past.
- Food Tasting: Leon is known for its agricultural produce, so don't miss out on trying local delicacies and fresh farm products.
Best Time to Go:
Arrive early on the festival day to secure a good spot for viewing the parade and enjoy the entire day's activities.
3. Victory Day
Location: Kiangan, Ifugao
Date: September 2
Victory Day in Kiangan, Ifugao, commemorates the surrender of Japanese General Tomoyuki Yamashita to the Allied forces during World War II, marking the end of Japanese occupation in the Philippines. This historical event is deeply significant to the locals, and the festival serves as a remembrance of the bravery and sacrifices of the Ifugao people during the war.
Things to Do:
- Attend the Commemoration Ceremony: The day begins with a solemn ceremony honoring the war veterans and those who perished during the conflict.
- Visit Historical Sites: Explore Kiangan's historical landmarks, such as the Kiangan War Memorial Shrine and the Yamashita Surrender Site.
- Cultural Displays: Experience traditional Ifugao music, dances, and rituals that are performed as part of the celebration.
Best Time to Go:
To fully appreciate the significance of Victory Day, consider arriving a day early to visit the historical sites and learn more about the region's wartime history.
4. Sinab’badan Tribal Festival
Location: Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur
Date: September 5 - 6
The Sinab’badan Tribal Festival is a vibrant celebration that honors the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous tribes in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. The festival is a gathering of various tribal groups, showcasing their unique customs, traditions, and way of life.
Things to Do:
- Witness Tribal Dances: Each tribe performs traditional dances, often accompanied by indigenous music played on native instruments.
- Cultural Exhibits: Explore exhibits that display traditional clothing, tools, and artifacts used by the tribes.
- Interactive Activities: Engage in activities such as weaving, pottery making, and other crafts demonstrated by the indigenous people.
Best Time to Go:
Visit during the festival dates to witness the full range of cultural performances and interact with the indigenous communities.
5. Padul-ong Festival
Location: Borongan, Eastern Samar
Date: September 7
The Padul-ong Festival is a religious and cultural event in Borongan, Eastern Samar, that pays homage to the miraculous image of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The festival reenacts the arrival of the image from Portugal to Borongan and its subsequent miracles, which have made it an object of devotion.
Things to Do:
- Witness the Reenactment: The highlight of the festival is the reenactment of the image's arrival, a colorful and dramatic performance.
- Attend the Procession: Participate in the religious procession that follows the reenactment, where devotees express their faith and gratitude.
- Cultural Shows: Enjoy cultural presentations, including traditional dances and music that celebrate the town's history and faith.
Best Time to Go:
Arrive in Borongan a day before the festival to experience the town's serene environment and prepare for the full day of festivities.
6. Minuluan Festival
Location: Talisay City, Negros Occidental
Date: September 8 - 10
The Minuluan Festival is celebrated in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, in honor of the city's patron saint, San Nicolas de Tolentino. The festival's name, "Minuluan," is derived from the old name of Talisay and reflects the city's historical roots.
Things to Do:
- Join the Street Dancing: The festival features a lively street dance competition with participants dressed in vibrant costumes, showcasing Talisay's history and culture.
- Food Festival: Talisay is known for its delicious local delicacies, so make sure to sample the food stalls offering native dishes.
- Fireworks Display: The festival usually concludes with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the night sky.
Best Time to Go:
Plan to be in Talisay City from the start of the festival to experience all the major events, particularly the street dancing competition.
7. Linggo ng Bulakan
Location: Malolos, Bulacan
Date: September 8 - 15
Linggo ng Bulakan is a week-long celebration in Malolos, Bulacan, commemorating the province's rich history and its significant role in the country's fight for independence. The festival features various events that highlight the cultural and historical heritage of Bulacan.
Things to Do:
- Historical Tours: Visit important historical sites in Bulacan, including the Barasoain Church and the Malolos Cathedral.
- Cultural Presentations: Enjoy a series of cultural performances, including traditional dances, music, and theatrical plays depicting Bulacan's history.
- Art Exhibits: Explore art exhibits showcasing the works of Bulacan's talented artists.
Best Time to Go:
Visit during the middle of the week to catch the major events and avoid the weekend crowds.
8. Banok-Banok Maradjao Karadjao Festival
Location: Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
Date: September 10
The Banok-Banok Maradjao Karadjao Festival is a vibrant street pageantry in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, celebrating the city's cultural diversity and rich history. "Banok-Banok" refers to a traditional dance of the Mamanwa tribe, while "Maradjao Karadjao" means "all is well" in Surigaonon, reflecting the festive and optimistic spirit of the locals.
Things to Do:
- Street Dancing: Witness the energetic street dance parade, with participants in colorful costumes performing to the beat of traditional and modern music.
- Cultural Exhibits: Visit exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Surigao, including artifacts and traditional crafts.
- Local Cuisine: Surigao is known for its seafood, so make sure to try the local dishes, particularly fresh fish and shellfish.
Best Time to Go:
Arrive early on the day of the festival to secure a good spot for viewing the street dancing and explore the city’s attractions.
9. Buyloganay Festival
Location: Ivisan, Capiz
Date: September 6 - 10
The Buyloganay Festival in Ivisan, Capiz, is a celebration of unity and thanksgiving among the townspeople. The word "Buyloganay" is derived from the Hiligaynon word "buylog," meaning to come together, symbolizing the community's collective spirit.
Things to Do:
- Parade and Street Dancing: Experience the festive parade and street dancing, where participants showcase the town's agricultural abundance and cultural traditions.
- Agri-Trade Fair: Explore the trade fair featuring local products, handicrafts, and agricultural produce.
- Cultural Nights: Enjoy cultural performances, including traditional music, dances, and theatrical presentations.
Best Time to Go:
Visit during the last two days of the festival to witness the major events, including the parade and street dancing competition.
10. Anniversary of the Battle of Pulang Lupa
Location: Torrijos, Marinduque
Date: September 13
The Anniversary of the Battle of Pulang Lupa in Torrijos, Marinduque, commemorates the historic battle between Filipino revolutionaries and American forces during the Philippine-American War. The event honors the bravery and sacrifice of the local heroes who fought for the country's independence.
Things to Do:
- Historical Reenactment: Witness the reenactment of the Battle of Pulang Lupa, a dramatic and educational portrayal of the historical event.
- Visit the Battle Site: Explore the actual site of the battle, which has been preserved as a historical landmark.
- Cultural Shows: Enjoy cultural performances that highlight Marinduque's history, traditions, and the bravery of its people.
Best Time to Go:
Arrive a day before the event to explore the historical landmarks and learn more about the significance of the battle.
11. Bislig City Charter Day
Location: Bislig City
Date: September 15 - 19
Bislig City Charter Day celebrates the founding of Bislig City in Surigao del Sur. This event is marked by various activities that showcase the city's progress, culture, and the resilience of its people.
Things to Do:
- Civic Parade: The charter day celebration kicks off with a civic parade featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and representatives from various sectors.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy performances by local artists, including traditional dances and modern musical acts.
- Food and Trade Fair: Explore the trade fair showcasing Bislig's local products, delicacies, and handicrafts.
Best Time to Go:
Plan your visit for the middle of the festival week to catch the most significant events, including the parade and cultural performances.
12. Voyadores Festival
Location: Daraga, Albay
Date: September 15
The Voyadores Festival in Daraga, Albay, is a religious and cultural event that honors Our Lady of Peñafrancia, the patroness of Bicol. The festival name, "Voyadores," refers to the male devotees who carry the image of the Virgin Mary during the fluvial procession.
Things to Do:
- Join the Procession: Participate in the fluvial procession along the Bicol River, a significant religious event where devotees express their faith and devotion.
- Cultural Shows: Enjoy cultural performances, including traditional dances, music, and plays that reflect the region's history and religious traditions.
- Explore Daraga: Take the time to visit Daraga's historical sites, such as the Cagsawa Ruins and the Daraga Church, both offering stunning views of Mount Mayon.
Best Time to Go:
Arrive a day before the festival to explore the town and participate in the pre-procession activities.
13. Talakudong Festival
Location: Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat
Date: September 18
The Talakudong Festival is a vibrant street dancing festival in Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat, celebrating the city's cultural heritage. The festival's name, "Talakudong," refers to the native headgear used by the early settlers of Tacurong.
Things to Do:
- Street Dancing Competition: Watch the colorful and energetic street dancing competition, where participants wear traditional headgear and costumes.
- Cultural Exhibits: Visit exhibits that showcase Tacurong's history, culture, and local crafts.
- Food Festival: Enjoy Tacurong's culinary delights, including local dishes and street food.
Best Time to Go:
Plan to be in Tacurong City on the festival day to experience the full range of activities, particularly the street dancing.
14. Patabang Festival
Location: Tapaz, Capiz
Date: September 21 - 30
The Patabang Festival in Tapaz, Capiz, is a celebration of the town's unity and spirit of cooperation. "Patabang" means "to help," and the festival emphasizes the importance of community support and togetherness.
Things to Do:
- Join the Parade: Experience the vibrant parade that features floats, costumes, and performances highlighting the town's agricultural and cultural heritage.
- Cultural Nights: Enjoy evening cultural performances, including traditional music, dances, and theatrical presentations.
- Visit Local Attractions: Take the opportunity to explore Tapaz's natural attractions, such as its rivers, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes.
Best Time to Go:
Visit during the last weekend of the festival to witness the major events, including the parade and cultural presentations.
15. Anihan Festival
Location: Duenas, Iloilo
Date: September 25 - 30
The Anihan Festival in Duenas, Iloilo, celebrates the town's agricultural abundance and the hard work of its farmers. "Anihan" means "harvest," and the festival is a thanksgiving event for a bountiful harvest season.
Things to Do:
- Harvest Parade: Witness the harvest parade, where participants showcase agricultural produce and traditional farming practices.
- Agri-Fair: Explore the agri-fair, featuring local products, handicrafts, and farming equipment.
- Cultural Shows: Enjoy cultural performances that highlight the town's traditions and agricultural heritage.
Best Time to Go:
Visit Duenas during the last two days of the festival to experience the major events and sample the local agricultural products.
16. Dalit Festival
Location: Tangub City, Misamis Occidental
Date: September 29
The Dalit Festival in Tangub City, Misamis Occidental, is a celebration of thanksgiving in honor of the city's patron saint, St. Michael the Archangel. The festival features religious and cultural activities that reflect the city's gratitude and devotion.
Things to Do:
- Join the Procession: Participate in the religious procession, a significant event where devotees honor St. Michael the Archangel.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional dances, music, and performances that showcase Tangub's cultural heritage.
- Food Fair: Taste local delicacies and dishes at the food fair, offering a variety of Misamis Occidental's culinary delights.
Best Time to Go:
Plan to arrive in Tangub City a day before the festival to explore the town and prepare for the full day of festivities.
September is a month rich in cultural celebrations across the Philippines, each festival offering a unique glimpse into the country's diverse traditions, history, and community life. Whether you're interested in vibrant street parades, solemn commemorations, or religious processions, there's a festival in September that caters to every taste. To make the most of these events, it's best to plan your trip ahead, considering the dates and the activities you wish to experience. From the cultural richness of the Sarakiki-Hadang Festival to the historical significance of the Battle of Pulang Lupa Anniversary, these festivals are not just celebrations but a way to immerse yourself in the heart of Filipino culture.
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