It’s fiesta all the way
Imagine how fun and fantastic it would be to plan your travel around the Philippines based on our biggest celebrations.
January: Cebu
For: Sinulog Festival (third Sunday of January)
A vibrant celebration honoring the Santo Niño with street dancing, processions, and colorful parades. Sinulog is perhaps one of the best Filipino festivals to attend.
What to do: Cebu is known as the "Queen City of the South" and boasts a mix of historical landmarks and natural wonders. Magellan's Cross and Basilica Minore del Santo Niño highlight its rich history as the cradle of Christianity in the Philippines. Cebu’s beaches, particularly those in Mactan and Bantayan Island, are renowned for their pristine waters and marine life. Don’t miss Kawasan Falls, Temple of Leah, Sirao Flower Garden
Must-eat: Lechon Carcar, what else! Also try Puso (hanging rice) with BBQ at Larsian, ngohiong (Cebu-style spring roll), and hit Casa Verde for their famous ribs
February: Baguio (Benguet)
For: Panagbenga Festival (Month-long)
Panagbenga, known as the Flower Festival, features floral floats and street dancing inspired by the region’s blooms.
What to do: Perched high in the mountains, Baguio is called the "Summer Capital of the Philippines" for its cool climate. The city is known for its pine forests, scenic parks, and fresh strawberries. The Panagbenga Festival also showcases the artistic talents of locals with parades that fill the air with the fragrance of fresh flowers. Don’t miss Burnham Park, La Trinidad Strawberry Farm, Camp John Hay
Must-eat: Strawberry Taho at Mines View Park; Pinikipikan, which is a traditional chicken dish;
Good Shepherd’s Ube Jam and Peanut Brittle; Farmer’s Daughter for authentic Cordillera cuisine.
March: Zamboanga City
For: Semana Santa sa Sta. Cruz Island (March leading up to Holy Week)
A serene Holy Week observance on the world-renowned Pink Sand Beach of Sta. Cruz Island. The island is perfect for reflection and relaxation while exploring Zamboanga’s natural beauty.
What to do: Zamboanga, known as the "Asia’s Latin City," offers a unique blend of Spanish and Filipino heritage. Its distinct language, Chavacano, is a mix of Spanish and local dialects. Sta. Cruz Island's pink sand, colored by crushed coral, is among its iconic attractions. Visit Fort Pilar Shrine and Museum, Paseo del Mar for evening strolls, Merloquet Falls
What to eat: Curacha (spanner crab) with Alavar Sauce; Knickerbocker (a fruity dessert similar to halo-halo); satti (spicy barbecue with rice balls). Visit La Vista del Mar for seafood with a view
April : Marinduque
For Moriones Festival (Holy Week)
A colorful re-enactment of the life of Saint Longinus, with costumed Roman centurions parading through the streets.
What to do: Known as the "Heart of the Philippines," Marinduque is shaped like a heart and occupies a central location. It is famous for its unspoiled beaches, such as Maniwaya Island, and its rich folklore. The Moriones Festival is a unique blend of devotion and theatrics, drawing visitors from around the country. Hit up Poctoy White Beach, Bathala Cave, and Maniwaya Island.
What to eat: Kari-Kari (Marinduque-style kare-kare), Tinapa (smoked fish) from Boac’s local markets, visit local bakeries for arrowroot cookies, and hit up street vendors during the festival sell fresh Suman (sticky rice)
May: Quezon Province
For: Pahiyas Festival (May 15)
The more-than-500-year-old festival's highlight is the extravagant decoration of houses with kiping, leaf-shaped wafers made from rice and dyed in vibrant colors. These decorations, often shaped into flowers, chandeliers, or other creative designs, transform the entire town into a kaleidoscope of colors. Homes are adorned not just with kiping but also with fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, and rice grains, showcasing the agricultural wealth of the region. The festival begins with a morning procession of the image of San Isidro Labrador. Farmers bring their best crops to the church to be blessed, symbolizing their gratitude and hope for another fruitful year.
What to do: Quezon Province is celebrated for its lush landscapes and culinary heritage. Quezon is also home to the famous pancit habhab, a local noodle dish served on banana leaves. Visit: Kamay ni Hesus Shrine, Lucban town, Tayabas Basilica
What to eat: Lucban Longganisa and Pancit Habhab from local eateries, Buddy’s Restaurant in Lucban for affordable Filipino comfort food, Kiping (crispy rice wafer) during the festival, Hardinera (a unique Quezon meatloaf)
June: Samar
For: Parayawan Festival (June 19, Calbayog City)
Celebrating rice farming and local culture with street dancing and agricultural fairs. Performers dressed in rice-inspired costumes parade through the streets, showcasing the journey of rice from planting to harvesting through dance and music. This vibrant spectacle highlights the cultural importance of farming.
What to do: Samar is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the Philippines, including caves, waterfalls, and rock formations. Its locals are known for their resilience and warmth, often recounting stories of how they have overcome natural disasters with community spirit. Don’t miss Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park, Biri Island Rock Formations, San Juanico Bridge
What to eat: Tinolang Isda (fish soup) and fresh seafood from Calbayog City, binagol (sweet taro delicacy) from street vendors, and linarang na kagang (crab dish)
July: Iloilo
For: Pintados de Pasi Festival (Mid-July)
A celebration of the ancient tattooed warriors of Panay, with vibrant dances and cultural events.
What to do: Iloilo is often called the "City of Love" for its friendly and hospitable people. Its heritage homes, century-old churches, and gastronomic delights like batchoy and pancit molo make it a favorite among history buffs and foodies alike. Don’t miss Miagao Church, Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort, Isla de Gigantes.
What to eat: · La Paz Batchoy at Netong’s in La Paz Public Market, Pancit Molo from Kapisnan, Ted’s Old Timer La Paz Batchoy, biscocho (toasted bread with butter) from Biscocho Haus, and fresh seafood from Breakthrough Restaurant
August: Davao
For: Kadayawan Festival (third week of August)
A thanksgiving festival celebrating bountiful harvests with floral floats, street dancing, and food fairs. Rooted in indigenous traditions, the festival pays homage to the gods, spirits, and ancestors for a fruitful harvest, good health, and harmony. It celebrates Davao’s status as the "fruit basket of the Philippines.” Performers clad in colorful, tribal-inspired costumes dance to pulsating drumbeats, narrating stories of Davao’s 11 indigenous tribes, collectively known as "Lumad."
What to do: Davao is a sprawling metropolis that offers a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. It is the gateway to Mount Apo, the tallest peak in the Philippines, and the home of the rare Philippine eagle. Durian, a local fruit with a polarizing smell, is a must-try for adventurous food lovers. Visit the Philippine Eagle Center, Samal Island, and for a beautiful ride, Buda Highway.
What to eat: Durian (try it fresh or as Durian Candy or Ice Cream); fresh seafood and BBQ at Roxas Night Market, kinilaw (Filipino ceviche) at Marina Tuna or at Luz Kinilaw, durian coffee concoctions and tuna belly at Jack’s Ridge, and Aling Foping’s Halo-Halo for dessert
September: Batanes
For: Nuang Festival (September 15). A tribute to the "Beast of Burden", the festival recognizes the carabao's indispensable role in farming, transportation, and as a symbol of resilience in the Ivatan community.
What to do: Batanes is often called the "Home of the Winds" for its strong breezes and dramatic seascapes. Its iconic stone houses and rolling hills make it a bucket-list destination for travelers seeking tranquility and unspoiled landscapes. The locals, called Ivatans, are known for their honesty and hospitality. Include the Basco Lighthouse, Marlboro Hills, Sabtang Island in your checklist.
What to eat: Uvud (meatballs made from banana pith and minced pork), venes (Ivatan-style adobo), and turmeric rice paired with fresh seafood. Visit Café du Tukon for a farm-to-table dining experience.
October: Bacolod (Negros Occidental)
For: MassKara Festival (fourth Sunday of October)
The MassKara Festival, held every fourth Sunday of October in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, is a vibrant celebration of joy and resilience, with colorful masks, parades, and lively street parties.
What to do: Known as the "City of Smiles," Bacolod is a hub of positivity and creativity. The festival started as a way to uplift the city's spirits during challenging times. Its nearby attractions, such as sugar plantations and stunning beaches, make it a well-rounded destination. Take pictures at The Ruins, Mambukal Resort, Lakawon Island.
What to eat: Chicken Inasal at Manokan Country, Calea pastries for cakes, particularly their famous Chocolate Mud Pie, piaya (flatbread with muscovado filling) from BongBong’s, and fresh seafood from 18th Street Pala-Pala
November: Camiguin
For: Lanzones Festival (third week of October but spills into early November)
A thanksgiving festival for the lanzones fruit, with street dancing and cultural events.
What to do: Known as the "Island Born of Fire," Camiguin is home to seven volcanoes and numerous hot springs. Its small size makes it easy to explore, but its charm and natural beauty leave a lasting impression. Go to White Island, Sunken Cemetery, and Katibawasan Falls.
What to eat: Fresh lanzones sold on the streets, pastel (sweet bun filled with yema) from Vjandep Bakery, kinilaw na tangigue (fish ceviche). Visit Casa Roca Inn for a cozy, scenic dining experience.
December: San Fernando (Pampanga)
For: Giant Lantern Festival (Week before Christmas)
Witness handcrafted, beautifully made, illuminated giant lanterns in a competition of craftsmanship and creativity.
What to do: San Fernando is known as the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines." The lanterns are a testament to the artistry and ingenuity of Kapampangans. This event draws tourists from across the globe to marvel at the dazzling lights and festive atmosphere. Go to the heritage District of Pampanga, visit Angeles City’s historical sites, and explore Clark Museum.
What to eat: Pampanga is best known for its food, so make sure you try Bringhe (Kapampangan paella), pork BBQ and local street food at stalls near the festival grounds, Susie’s Cuisine for halo-halo and native delicacies, and sisig. Go to Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy for Kapampangan-style snacks
