Here are 6 colorful festivals happening across the Philippines this April 2026 — each one bursting with culture, tradition, and unforgettable experiences! 🎉🇵🇭
📌Moriones Festival – Marinduque (March 29 – April 5, 2026)
This festival is a unique Holy Week tradition. During the event, participants wear Morion masks to portray Roman soldiers. There’s a re-enactment of the story of Longinus, the Roman soldier who converted to Christianity after witnessing the crucifixion of Jesus.
Accommodation Recommendation: Balar Hotel and Spa in Boac
Watatrip // April 2026 Festivals
📌Turumba Festival – Pakil, Laguna (Starts March 27, 2026) A vibrant religious festival in honor of Our Lady of Sorrows, featuring traditional “turumba” dancing, processions, and heartfelt devotion from the local community.
Accommodation Recommendation: Casa San Pablo in San Pablo City
Watatrip // April 2026 Festivals
📌Lami-Lamihan Festival – Lamitan, Basilan (April 14 – 16, 2026) A cultural showcase of Yakan traditions with tribal dances, colorful costumes, and local crafts, celebrating the identity and unity of the indigenous people.
Accommodation Recommendation: Kasinnahan Hotel and Resort
Watatrip // April 2026 Festivals
📌Capiztahan Festival – Roxas City, Capiz (April 13 – 19, 2026) A grand celebration of Capiz’s rich heritage with seafood feasts, civic parades, beauty pageants, and cultural exhibitions.
📌Rodeo Festival – Masbate City, Masbate (April 9 – 13, 2026) The only rodeo event in the Philippines, featuring thrilling bull riding, cattle events, and cowboy-themed contests that highlight the local ranching culture.
Accommodation Recommendation: Ranchers Hotel
Watatrip // April 2026 Festivals
📌Panaad sa Negros Festival – Bacolod City, Negros Occidental (April 13 – 19, 2026 – Tentative) Dubbed the “Festival of Festivals,” this weeklong event features the best of each town in Negros through food, performances, and exhibits.
Accommodation Recommendation: Seda Capitol Central
Watatrip // April 2026 Festivals
With so many festivals happening, you have so many reasons to travel this April! 🌞🎉 If you’re planning to join any of these, make sure to check out our recommended places to stay for a more comfy trip. 🏡🧳
Follow @Watatrip for more travel tips and festival guides around the Philippines! 🇵🇭✨
Here are some fun and different ideas you can try around Manila with your partner – Valentine’s day or not! 😀
💖Bamboo Bike Tour – Intramuros
A guided bamboo bike tour around Intramuros’ historic walls for a fun, romantic exploration of Manila’s heritage while pedalling together. Price: About ₱1,500 per pax for a 2-hour tour. Why It’s a Must-Do: Unique, not your usual dinner — adventure + bonding + culture all in one. FB:https://www.facebook.com/BambikeEcotours/
Watatrip // Bamboo Bike Tour – Intramuros
💖Escape Room Challenge – Vertis North QC, Makati
A hands-on puzzle adventure where you and your partner work together to “escape” themed rooms under a time limit.Clue solving, rapid partnership decision-making, witty clues, and suspenseful fun.
Price: ₱300–₱450 per person depending on location and difficulty. Why It’s a Must-Do: It’s interactive, hilarious, and gets you two working together, plus there’s bragging rights if you escape! 📱 FB:https://www.facebook.com/leftbehindph
Watatrip // Escape Room Challenge
💖Paint & Pottery Date – Poblacion, Makati City
Get artistic with your partner at a paint-and-sip class or pottery workshop where you create keepsakes together. Beginner-friendly clay sessions where couples can shape mugs, bowls, or trinkets together.
Price: ~₱2,500–₱4,000+ per person (varies by workshop, includes materials) Why It’s a Must-Do: Perfect for experiential bonding, create keepsakes to take home! Sessions are relaxed and fun for first-timers.
Which one sounds like your kind of date? Tag your special someone and plan something new together! 💕 Follow Watatrip for more travel and pop culture blogs.
💕Pio’s Kitchen Chic restaurant with local & international flavors. Laid‑back but elevated date environment with great food & drinks. Hidden‑gem vibe off the beaten path, ideal for easy dinner dates that feel “special yet natural.”
Cozy Filipino restaurant with elevated comfort food. Warm interiors & hearty food for intimate conversations. Great for couples who love casual dinners with authentic flavors.
Contemporary art museum and garden. Explore inspiring art installations, stroll lush gardens, and enjoy cafés within the museum grounds. Great for creative couples who want a cultured, peaceful date surrounded by art and nature.
Offers private yacht cruises and romantic dinner dates along Manila Bay — including all‑exclusive cruises for couples with food and wine. Perfect for intimate Valentine’s experiences — a private dinner at sunset on your own yacht, ideal for proposals or special celebrations.
Price Points: *Dinner on a docked yacht: ~₱2,500/person (shared). *Exclusive cruise + dinner for two: ~₱16,000 (3‑course meal + cruising).
Forget the digital noise—pottery is the ultimate way to get offline and get your hands dirty. What started as a quiet hobby has become the Philippines’ go-to creative escape, offering a much-needed mix of therapy and artistry.
From cozy urban studios to hidden pottery farms, there’s a space for everyone to get messy and make mistakes. We’ve curated a list of the top wheel-throwing and hand-building classes for your next weekend adventure. If you’re looking for a mindful way to unwind or a unique date-night idea, it’s time to see what you can shape when you finally slow down.
1. Tahanan Pottery Shop
Tahanan Pottery is a well-known pottery studio in Quezon City offering classes for all skill levels, from beginners to more advanced learners. They offer multi-session classes on pottery wheel and hand-building techniques with glazing and firing included.
Classes & prices (based on current offerings):
Basic Pottery Wheel Class – Php9,000 for seven (7) sessions.
Mastering the Basics Pottery Wheel Class – Php10,000 for seven (7) sessions.
Intermediate Pottery Wheel Class – Php15,000 for seven (7) sessions
They also offer hand-building classes, advanced classes, and special workshops, plus studio use for former students.
Pottery Sessions is a Makati-based studio offering pottery workshops and classes focused on both wheel-throwing and hand-building. It’s suitable for beginners and those who want to relax and be creative. Their price range from Php3,000 to Php4,000++
Cornerstone Pottery Farm is known more as a ceramic shop and pottery destination showcasing hand-crafted ceramic pieces and garden pottery. The “farm” setting reflects their vision of a creative space where art, craft, and community meet.
The farm regularly hosts pottery workshops led by EJ Espiritu, a ceramic engineer by training. These sessions attract hobbyists, corporate teams, and local celebrities seeking hands-on experience in wheel-throwing and glazing. Beyond training, the studio participates in art fairs such as Artefino and Art in the Park, helping sustain Philippine craft visibility.
This pottery class place located in Cubao is very famous, so many celebrities and influencers have already visited to experience their pottery class. They have a variety of pottery classes that range from Php2,800 to multiple courses worth Php16,000.
They also have a pottery wheel throwing for Php 3,700, mug-making on the wheel for Php3,950.00. Check out their website for their rates.
Established in 2020, Wabi Sabi is a creative pottery studio and cafe that began in San Juan and later on relocated in Pasig. The founders, Pau and Gabbie Javier, drew inspiration from the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi—finding beauty in imperfection. Their move to Pasig allowed for a larger, naturally lit workspace conducive to creativity.
They’re well-known for their 1-day wheel throwing crash courses, group workshops, and additional creative sessions.
Examples of offerings:
1-Day Wheel Throwing Crash Course – around ₱3,000–₱4,400 depending on platform and inclusions.
Multi-session wheel workshops (e.g., 3 or 5 sessions) with varying prices.
Other activities like mug painting and cafe experiences are also offered.
Rise and Shine Pottery, located in Silang, Cavite, offers pottery classes and workshops that emphasize creativity and mental wellness. They have Pottery Workshops, Pottery Classes, and Medication through pottery, among others.
Besides showcasing your talent through pottery classes, it also helps your mind to refresh and to focus.
AMT Ceramic Studio is a home-based pottery and ceramic art studio in Tandang Sora, Quezon City, Metro Manila, founded by Filipino artist Alfred Mark (AM) Trajeco. The studio blends Japanese and Filipino aesthetics to produce minimalist, nature-inspired ceramics and provides creative spaces for learning and community engagement in pottery. The studio’s founding marked its first kiln firing or Hatsugama, a significant tradition in Japanese pottery.
Their workshops range from Php 2,800 (Wheel-throwing & hand building) to a full course worth Php8,500. Visit their website to know more about their promos and courses.
Watatrip is a soon-to-launch travel application that will let you discover amazing activities like pottery and give you the option to create your own tours and trips. To stay updated, follow Watatrip on Facebook.
🎾 Looking for a tennis court around the Metro? These are the perfect spots with great courts that you’ll definitely enjoy!
📍Tennis in the City – Century City Mall, Kalayaan Ave., Makati Convenient mall location with coaching services available Starts at ₱250 for members and ₱600 for non-member
Tennis in the City // Watatrip
📍Manila Polo Club – McKinley Road, Forbes Park, Makati 15 courts (10 covered, 5 outdoor); largest tennis complex in the country Exclusive to members; contact them directly to reserve.
Manila Polo Club // Watatrip
📍Ascott Makati – Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Makati Hotel-based court offering convenience for guests
Ascott Makati // Watatrip
📍Manila Padel Club – Bonifacio Global City & Arcovia City First padel club in Manila; offers coaching and equipment rentals Free “Intro to Padel” sessions Mon–Thu mornings and evenings ₱1,500–₱3,400/hour; per person rates vary
Manila Padel Club // Watatrip
📍UP Diliman Tennis Court – Ylanan Street, UP Diliman, Quezon City Newly renovated courts within the UP Sports Complex ₱120/hour court fee; coaching at ₱250/hour
UP Diliman Tennis Court // Watatrip
📍 Camp Aguinaldo Tennis Court – Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Open to civilians; first-come, first-served basis No court fee; ₱100/game for singles, ₱50/game for doubles; ₱100 guest fee
Camp Aguinaldo Tennis Court // Watatrip
📍 Kerry Sports Manila – Shangri-La at the Fort, BGC, Taguig Part of the largest indoor lifestyle and leisure club in the Philippines Starting at ₱5,000; rates vary
Kerry Sports Manila // Watatrip
Game on! Tag your tennis buddies and plan your next match! Don’t forget to follow us @watatrip.asia for more sports and wellness spots around the Metro!
Yes, the rainy days are here. But if you’re looking for fun and safe outdoor spots where kids can run, jump, and play, we’ve listed down five fantastic playgrounds where you can bond and make unforgettable memories!
📍 Boogie Bounce PH – Jump, bounce, and have a blast! 🤩🦘
Located at Blue Bay Walk, Pasay, Boogie Bounce PH is the biggest arcade-themed inflatable playground in Metro Manila. Spanning one hectare, this supersized play zone features giant inflatable slides, obstacle courses, and arcade-inspired attractions like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong. There’s even a 1,000-square-meter air-filled dance floor where kids and adults can boogie to the latest beats! Whether you’re here for high-energy jumps or interactive challenges, this spot guarantees endless fun.
Boogie Bounce PH // Watatrip
📍 Ayala Triangle Gardens – Nature and play in the heart of Makati! 🌳✨
This lush urban park now boasts a newly upgraded play area designed for kids aged 2 to 12. Surrounded by greenery, the playground features slides, jungle gyms, hopscotch markings, and sensory play structures. Parents can relax on shaded benches while kids enjoy safe and engaging activities. Plus, its central location in Makati makes it a perfect stop for families looking to mix playtime with city adventures.
Ayala Triangle Gardens // Watatrip
📍 Children’s Park, SM Mall of Asia – Playtime by the bay! 🌊🛝
Set against the backdrop of Manila Bay, Children’s Park, SM Mall of Asia offers slides, swings, climbing structures, and eco-friendly play equipment. Kids can enjoy the fresh sea breeze while engaging in active play, making it an ideal spot for weekend outings and post-shopping fun. If your kids want to continue playing somewhere a bit cooler, check out the other play places inside MOA like Cosmic Kidz.
Children’s Park MOA // Watatrip
📍 Bonsai No Sato Park – A unique play experience in Isabela! 🌿🏯
This hidden gem in Cauayan City is more than just a playground—it’s a botanical wonderland featuring over 300 exquisite bonsai trees. Families can explore Japanese-inspired gardens, picnic huts, and interactive play areas. Kids will love the trampoline, inflatable island, and electric go-karts, while adults can admire the scenic bonsai collection. It’s a perfect blend of nature, culture, and fun!
Bonsai No Sato Park // Watatrip
📍 CDC Children’s Playground – Play and adventure in Clark! 🏃♂️🎠
Recently upgraded, CDC Children’s Playground in Clark Freeport Zone now features brand-new playsets, a spiral tunnel slide, curved monkey bars, and a rubber-mulch safety surface. The spacious park provides interactive structures and shaded picnic areas, making it a great destination for family bonding and outdoor fun. Plus, it’s free to enter, making it an accessible play spot for all ages.
CDC Children’s Playground // Watatrip
Discover more cool spots in and out of Metro Manila by following Watatrip!
August has a lot in store for you, festival-wise. Let’s see what festivals you can participate in for the rest of the month.
📍 Pangapog Festival (August 1-7)
The Pangapog Festival is a significant cultural celebration held annually in Samal Island, Davao del Norte. It is a heartfelt expression of gratitude from the Sama people, the indigenous inhabitants of the island, for a bountiful harvest.
This festival is a vibrant showcase of Sama culture, featuring traditional games, dances, and music. It is a time for the community to come together, strengthen bonds, and preserve their heritage. The festival also highlights the islanders’ deep connection to the sea and their reliance on its resources.
At the core of the Pangapog Festival is a thanksgiving ritual performed by a babaylan (shaman), offering prayers and blessings for a continuous flow of abundance. This spiritual aspect underscores the importance of nature and ancestral spirits in the Sama worldview.
Beyond the cultural performances, the festival also features local delicacies, showcasing the rich flavors of Samal Island. It is a time for visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s warm hospitality and experience the genuine joy of the Sama people.
The Palu-Palo Festival is a vibrant cultural celebration held annually in Basco, Batanes. It commemorates the bravery and resilience of the Ivatans, the indigenous people of Batanes, who used “palu-palo” or sticks to defend their island against foreign invaders.
This festival is a showcase of Ivatani culture, featuring traditional dances, music, and crafts. Participants don colorful costumes made from indigenous materials, reflecting the island’s unique heritage. The festival also includes historical reenactments, highlighting the Ivatans’ courageous past.
The Palu-Palo Festival offers visitors a glimpse into the idyllic life in Batanes. With its stunning natural landscapes and warm hospitality, the festival provides a truly unforgettable experience.
The Mercedes Kadagatan Festival is a vibrant annual celebration held in the coastal town of Mercedes, Camarines Norte. This festival pays homage to the town’s rich maritime heritage and its dependence on the sea as a source of life and livelihood.
The Kadagatan Festival showcases the town’s culture and traditions through colorful street dancing competitions, featuring participants dressed in costumes inspired by marine life. The festival also includes boat races, fishing contests, and other water-based activities that highlight the community’s deep connection to the ocean.
The Kadagatan Festival serves as a platform to promote marine conservation and sustainable fishing practices. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the marine ecosystem and ensuring its abundance for future generations.
The Tig-Aw Festival is an annual thanksgiving celebration held in Tigaon, Camarines Sur, in honor of the town’s patroness, Saint Clare of Assisi. This vibrant festival showcases the rich culture and heritage of the region through colorful street dancing competitions, captivating cultural performances, and lively community events.
The festival celebrates the agricultural bounty of the region with the Tig-Aw Farmers’ Festival. This component recognizes the hard work and dedication of farmers who contribute significantly to the local economy.
At the heart of the festival is the Yalu-Raya Grand Street Dancing Competition, where participants don colorful costumes and dance to the rhythm of energetic music. The festival also features a Special Program in the Arts Dance and Musical Night, highlighting the talents of local artists and performers.
The Kadayawan Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration held annually in Davao City, Philippines. It is a thanksgiving for the bountiful harvest and a celebration of life, culture, and nature’s gifts. The name “Kadayawan” comes from the Davaoenyo word “madayaw,” meaning “good,” “beautiful,” or “valuable.”
This festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of Davao’s 11 tribes through stunning street dancing competitions, where participants wear vibrant costumes and dance to the rhythm of traditional music. The Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan is a highlight of the festival, featuring a spectacular parade of colorful floats adorned with local flowers and produce.
The Higalaay Festival is an annual celebration held in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, every 28th of August, coinciding with the feast day of St. Augustine, the city’s patron saint. The name “Higalaay” means “friendship” in Cebuano, reflecting the city’s moniker as the “City of Golden Friendship.”
This vibrant festival is a week-long celebration filled with colorful parades, cultural performances, and exciting events. It showcases the city’s rich heritage, warm hospitality, and thriving community spirit. From street dancing competitions to religious processions, the Higalaay Festival offers something for everyone.
The event also serves as a platform to promote Cagayan de Oro as a tourist destination, highlighting its natural beauty, adventure opportunities, and investment potential.
The Ibalong Festival is a vibrant celebration held annually in Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines. Rooted in the epic tale of Ibalong, it is a grand spectacle that brings to life the legendary exploits of the Bicolano heroes: Baltog, Handyong, and Bantong.
Through colorful street parades, dramatic performances, and intricate costumes, the festival reimagines the epic battles between the heroes and mythical creatures. The streets of Legazpi come alive with the energy and passion of the Bicolano people as they pay homage to their rich cultural heritage.
Apart form these epic reenactments, the Ibalong Festival also highlights the region’s natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. It is a time for the community to come together and celebrate their shared identity.
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Ready to Experience the Best Festivals in the Philippines this July 2024? 🌟
Pack your bags and mark your calendars for an unforgettable journey through the Philippines’ most vibrant festivals happening this July!
From cultural parades to lively street dances, here are the must-see events this month, along with top accommodation recommendations in the area:
Pagoda Festival – First Sunday of July (July 7, 2024), in Bocaue, Bulacan
Join the grand fluvial parade with beautifully decorated pagodas on the Wawa River.
“The Pagoda sa Wawa fluvial festival is held in Bocaue, Bulacan, every first Sunday of July. It is a religious event where hundreds of devotees unite to pay homage to the Holy Cross of Wawa.” (Source: MDPI.com)
Lubid Festival – July 8-16, 2024, in Malilipot, Albay
Malilipot, Albay’s Lubid Festival, which takes place from July 8-16, 2024, honors the town’s rich cultural history as well as its valuable abaca hemp resource. There will be a range of activities at this event, including a job fair, educational sessions, sports competitions, and the Kalipi Dance Showdown. By showcasing the community’s skill and ecological agricultural methods, it pays tribute to the vital role that abaca plays in the local economy. The celebration highlights the identity of Malilipot and the continuing significance of abaca to its way of life.
T’nalak Festival – July 18, 2024, in South Cotabato
The T’nalak Festival, held every July in Koronadal City, South Cotabato, celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage. Named after the t’nalak cloth woven by T’boli women, the festival symbolizes unity among the diverse ethnic groups in the province. Highlighting the festival are various events such as parades, fun runs, and competitions, all culminating in a grand fireworks display. The festival also honors Lang Dulay, a renowned T’boli weaver, acknowledging her contribution to preserving this traditional art form.
Libon Paroy Festival – July 22-25, 2024, in Libon, Albay
”The festival, celebrated every July, reflects on the town’s main source of living ”paroy” or rice and known as the rice granary of Albay. It features various activities including street parade, sports fest, longest tilapia and corn grill, and many more.” (Source: Albay.gov.ph)
Grand Kaliga Festival – July 23, 2024, in Gingoog City
Celebrate the city’s charter anniversary with cultural performances and local competitions.
““KALIGA” means thanksgiving for the Gingoognons. This colorful and joyous festival of Abundance and Prosperity, also looks back at the city’s MANOBO and Higaonon roots, their culture and traditions through rituals and street dancing. The festive Kaliga is also the Gingoogonon’s expression of gratefulness to the Almighty’s undying Love and continued Blessings.” (Source: Gingoog.gov.ph)
Kinabayo Festival – July 25, 2024, in Dapitan City
Witness the historical reenactments of the Battle of Covadonga with spectacular parades.
“Kinabayo is an annual observance of Dapitan City’s Fiesta in honor of Saint James “the Greater and the Moor Slayer”. Held every July, Sinug and Kinabayo have become a festivity. Sinug’ is purely veneration using San Francisco Leaves raised high, dancing through the rhythm of the gong or beating of drums as the throng of devotees brings the saint’s image to his chapel. On the other hand, Kinabayo is a unique dramatization of the triumph of the Catholic faith over Mohammedanism believed to have happened through the intercession of the saint in view of his apparition during the battles of Clavijo and Covadonga and the appearance of the Lady of the Pilar. Modernity has added more color to the festival with the allegorical dance drama presentation of the two events.” (Source: TPB.gov.ph)
Sinulog de Tanjay Festival – July 25, 2024, in Negros Oriental.
The Sinulog sa Tanjay festival, held in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, every July, commemorates the town’s history and cultural heritage. The festival highlights the town’s gratitude for bountiful harvests, particularly rice, which is used to create the famous bodbod delicacy. It features vibrant events, including the reenactment of the historic battle between Christians and Moors, modern festivities like beauty pageants, live bands, and food booths. The festival not only celebrates religious history but also showcases the community’s culinary and cultural traditions.
Sinulog de Tanjay Festival – July 2024 // Watatrip
Make sure to book your stay early and dive into the heart of Filipino culture. These festivals are not just events; they are experiences that you will cherish forever. 🇵🇭✨
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Community immersion is a transforming experience for tourists, providing deep insights into local cultures and creating lasting friendships.
Travelers who actively engage with communities get a nuanced awareness of the traditions, values, and lifestyles that govern daily life. This integrated approach goes beyond traditional tourism, encouraging cultural exchange and mutual respect that promotes empathy, deconstructs preconceptions, and fosters a global viewpoint.
When you immerse yourself in a specific local community, you also contribute to local economies by promoting small enterprises and sustainable practices.
The benefits go beyond personal development to foster cross-cultural understanding, resulting in a more interconnected world in which varied people can learn and appreciate one another.
So, if you haven’t had an immersion experience yet and are planning one, here are some pointers to help you get the most out of it.
✅ GET TO KNOW THE LOCALS
Show respect by researching and understanding the culture you’ll be immersed in. Familiarize yourself with their traditions, values, and social norms.
Immersion tips | Watatrip
✅ LEARN THEIR LANGUAGE
Learn key phrases in the local language. This effort demonstrates your interest in connecting and can break down communication barriers.
✅ PACK WITH CONSIDERATION
Pack essentials while considering the climate and cultural expectations. Respectful clothing choices and versatile items will help you adapt to different situations.
Immersion tips | Watatrip
✅ EMBRACE THE UNEXPECTED
Embrace uncertainty and be open to new experiences. The most memorable moments often arise from unexpected situations.
✅ BE FLEXIBLE
Plans may change, and schedules might shift. Stay flexible to adapt to the community’s rhythm and make the most of spontaneous opportunities.
Immersion tips | Watatrip
✅ CAPTURE MOMENTS, NOT PRIVACY
Capture memories responsibly. Always seek permission before taking photos or videos to respect the privacy and wishes of the locals.
✅ TUNE INTO LOCAL STORIES
Spend time observing daily life and actively listen to the community members’ stories. This will deepen your understanding and connection.
✅ GET INVOLVED
Engage in community activities or projects. Your involvement demonstrates genuine interest and fosters a sense of collaboration and friendship.
Immersion tips | Watatrip
✅ GAIN POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS
Adhere to local customs and traditions, even if they differ from your own. This shows respect and helps build positive relationships with the community.
Personal Well-being:
✅ PRIORITIZE HEALTH BY UNDERSTANDING LOCAL RISKS
Prioritize your health by understanding local health risks and taking necessary precautions, such as vaccinations and carrying essential medications.
Immersion tips | Watatrip
✅ ALWAYS PAY ATTENTION
Be aware of cultural nuances in gestures, body language, and interpersonal interactions. Sensitivity to these aspects contributes to smoother integration and understanding.
These simple tips can turn your journey into a meaningful adventure. So what are you waiting for? Follow us now Watatrip on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and updates!
Join us as we explore the joyous gatherings and spirited events that make this a month of fun, unity, and Filipino pride!
Bailes de Luces (January 5) – 📍 La Castellana, Negros Occidental
La Castellana’s Bailes de Luces (Dance of the Lights) festival may be in a small town, but it’s a big celebration. Unlike other festivals held during the sweltering daytime, this one takes place at night, allowing the lights and music to shine. It’s a unique way to conclude Christmas and celebrate the community. There’s street dancing, arena competitions, and other exciting events! 🎉💫
Bailes de Luces | Watatrip
🏨 Where you can stay: Seda Capitol Central (North Capitol Road, Lacson St, Bacolod, 6100 Negros Occidental)
Feast of the Black Nazarene (January 9) – 📍 Quiapo, Manila
The Black Nazarene is a highly revered religious statue in the Philippines, kept in Quiapo Church. During its feast, millions gather to see the statue of Christ. People eagerly try to touch or wipe their towels on the miraculous icon, creating a lively event.
Feast of the Black Nazarene | Watatrip
🏨 Where you can stay: Sun Star Grand Hotel (665-667 Quezon Boulevard Quiapo Manila, 10001)
Hinugyaw Festival (January 3-10) – 📍 Koronadal City, South Cotabato
Hinugyaw Festival in Koronadal City is all about laughter and fun! Enjoy colorful events like street dancing, the Marbeleño Mardi Gras, pageants, food fests, and concerts!
🏨 Where you can stay: Mezza Hotel (General Paulino Santos Drive Near Citra Mina, 9506 Koronadal)
Sinulog Festival (January 12 – event kick-off) – 📍 Cebu City
A lively celebration of the Sto. Nino, drawing deeply religious locals and visitors. Elaborate statues are displayed throughout the city, especially in the Basilica, where devotees gather to venerate the Child Jesus. The festival includes Sinulog dance competitions and a massive boat parade, attracting millions of participants worldwide.
For the full schedule of Sinulog festival, check out their website here.
Sinulog Festival | Watatrip
🏨 Where you can stay: AJ’s Haven Homestay (Lot 3 BLK 4 pH 1 Desana Heights, E. Sabellano St, 6000 Cebu City)
Ati-Atihan Festival (January 3-21) – 📍 Kalibo, Aklan
Dancers with black-painted faces shout ‘Hala Bira’ during Kalibo’s Ati-Atihan Festival, a lively party honoring Sto. Nino. Join the fun, imitate the Aeta tribe, and enjoy the wild street celebrations!
This month-long celebration starts on January 3, but the grand procession is scheduled on January 21, 2024.
For more information about this festival, visit their Facebook page.
Ati-Atihan Festival | Watatrip
🏨 Where you can stay: Ati-Atihan Festival Hotel (19 Martyrs Street, City Proper, Kalibo, Philippines, 5600)
Kuyamis Festival (January 8-14) – 📍 Misamis Oriental
This Festival marks the creation of Misamis Oriental as a separate local government on January 1, 1930. The festival begins with a booth displaying coconut products, crafts, and Filipino dishes with coconut. There are also sports and street dance competitions throughout the weeklong celebration.
The name Kuyamis Festival is derived from the Subanen term kuyamis, which refers to the sweet coconut kind found in the province’s regions. Did you know that it is also the source of the name Misamis?
Kuyamis Festival | Watatrip
🏨 Where you can stay: Limketkai Luxe Hotel (Limketkai Center, Limketkai Avenue, Cagayan de Oro, Mindanao 9000)
Dinagyang Festival (January 12-30) – 📍 Iloilo City
Iloilo City’s Dinagyang Festival is a vibrant celebration to honor the Sto. Nino and showcase Ilonggo heritage. The month-long celebration kicks off on the 12th of January. There will be music festivals, food festivals, and other spectacles such as lively dances, colorful costumes, and spirited chants.
Shout “Hala Bira!” and “Viva Senyor Santo Nino!” as you join the Motorcade of Senor Santo Nino de Cebu on the 24th. There’s also the Fluvial Parade on the 25th, the Kasadyaan Competition on the 27th, and the grand Dinagyang Tribes Competition on the 28th. 🎉
🏨 Where you can stay: Go Hotels Iloilo (Robinson’s Place Iloilo, Ledesma Street, Iloilo City, Iloilo Province 5000)
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