Whether you’re a tourist or a resident, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So join the fun, and experience the magic of October Festivals in Luzon!
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best festivals in Luzon this October and why you should add them to your bucket list. So get ready to immerse yourself in Luzon’s vibrant culture and rich traditions and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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October Festivals in Luzon: Paruyan Festival (October 1 – 4, Talisay, Camarines Norte)
The Paruyan Festival is a lively celebration that showcases the district’s primary product – rice, and its rich cultural heritage. Locals and tourists can enjoy various fun-filled activities such as parades, dance competitions, concerts, and contests during this month-long festival.
The festival is not just for farmers but for everyone who appreciates the goodness of rice in their daily diet. So partake of this exciting event celebrating the abundance of good harvests and the community’s gratitude for a bountiful yield.
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Kawayanan Festival (October 1, Gloria, Oriental Mindoro)
Have you heard about the Kawayanan Festival? It’s an annual celebration every October 1 in Gloria. This festival first started in 2003 and has been going strong ever since.
This festive occasion pays homage to one of Gloria’s most abundant resources, bamboo. With vast bamboo plantations in the area, it’s no surprise that the town celebrates this unique asset.
The festival is a sight to behold, with students from different levels performing a lively street dance wearing costumes made from or inspired by bamboo. Additionally, each barangay showcases various bamboo crafts, from small home displays to entire bamboo huts. It’s truly a celebration of the town’s culture and resources.
Catandungan Festival (October 22 – 24, Virac, Catanduanes)
Did you know that the Catandungan Festival became named after the island’s original name, Katandungan? The name came from an endemic beetle called tandu or a samdong tree. When the Spaniards came, they Hispanized it. So we now know it as Catanduanes.
The festival is a celebration of the province’s creation and history. Back then, the island was home to migrants who traded with neighboring islands and even as far as Borneo and China.
One of the festival’s highlights is the procession of Our Lady of La Naval, who played a significant role in the Battle of La Naval de Manila. This battle turned the tide in favor of Spanish colonizers against Dutch invaders in 1646. It’s a great way to honor the island’s rich history and culture.
Kasanggayahan Festival (Whole month of October, Sorsogon, Sorsogon)
Have you heard about the Kasanggayahan Festival in the beautiful province of Sorsogon, Philippines? It’s the biggest festival in the area and is held every October 1 to 31, with a month-long celebration of the province’s founding anniversary. This fabulous event is known as the Festival of all Festivals and is participated by the local government units of constituent localities of the area.
The provincial government and the Kasanggayahan Foundation, Inc. team up to organize the festival, with major events taking place in Sorsogon, the capital. One of the highlights of the celebrations in October 2019 was when they set the Guinness World Record for the most extensive Filipino folk dance performance.
The total number of participants from different localities was 7,1027, and they performed the folk dance Pantomina sa Tinampo on Rompeolas Baywalk, Magsaysay Street, and Rizal Street. In addition, the Kasanggayahan Festival has various activities designed to promote agriculture, art, culture, history, tourism, and trade.
October Festivals in Luzon: Cimarrones Festival (October 16 – 26, Pili, Camarines Sur)
Have you heard of the Cimarrones Festival in Pili, Camarines Sur? It’s an annual event hosted by the municipal government, celebrating the town’s religious roots. The festival’s name comes from the “Cimarrones” or “Remontados,” who resisted the Spanish colonial rule in the 1770s.
Rahugan Festival (October 17 – 24, Basud, Camarines Norte)
Rahugan Festival is a week-long celebration that brings together the community in a strong display of unity. The festival highlights the importance of family, belonging, a peaceful and comfortable life, and community spirit among the Basudenos.
This festival is a perfect opportunity for tourists to experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals. There are many activities to enjoy, like street dancing, wall painting competition, traditional games, agro-tourism expo, and beauty pageants. No wonder this festival is famous, attracting foreigners with their family and friends.
The Rahugan Festival is an excellent chance to witness the Basudenos’ spirit of courage, freedom, community leadership, and participation. So, what are you waiting for? Come and join the fun!
Apo Iraya Festival (October 23, Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro)
If you want a fascinating cultural experience, check out the Apo Iraya Festival! Held every October 23-24 in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro, this event showcases the unique traditions and way of life of the Iraya Mangyans.
The festival is not just a celebration but also educates non-Mangyans about the centuries-old folkways and beliefs of the Iraya Mangyans. In addition, attending can teach you about their culture, ideas, and daily activities.
From birth to death, marriage to livelihood, Apo Iraya plays a significant role in these people’s lives. So, if you want to learn about the rich culture and traditions of the Iraya Mangyans, come to the Apo Iraya Festival and join the celebration!
October Festivals in Luzon: Fiestang Kuliat (October 28 -29, Angeles, Pampanga)
This festival celebrates Angelenos’ strength and resilience in overcoming difficult times. In addition, the Fiestang Kuliat features two of the most popular celebrations in the city, the La Naval celebration honoring the blessed virgin of the Holy Rosary and the holiday of nangapung mamacalulu praising the Lord of the Holy Sepulcher, both of which pay tribute to the patron saints.
One of the festival’s highlights is the Tigtigan Terakan Queng Dalan, a lively street party where people can sing and dance in the streets of Balibago. People need to learn how to celebrate, like the Kapampangans in Angeles City, and the Fiestang Kuliat is the longest festival in the country, packed with events and activities such as three feast day celebrations, cultural and traditional festivities, and an epic street party.
Final Thoughts
Can you believe it’s just two months until Christmas? The Philippines is already getting into the festive spirit in October. Malls are starting to hold big sales to prepare for the holidays, and some neighborhoods celebrate Halloween in Western style with trick-or-treating and spooky costumes.
Although it’s worth attending October festivals in Luzon to enjoy the celebrations in the Philippines, just taking in the festive atmosphere is enjoyable too! Hope to see you soon!
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