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List of festivals in the Philippines
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 | Parts of this article (those related to dates) need to be updated. The reason given is: Some fiestas are no longer celebrated, or their dates have been changed. (September 2024) |
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The origin of most early festivals, locally known as "fiestas", are rooted in Christianity, dating back to the Spanish colonial period when the many communities (such as barrios and towns) of the predominantly Catholic Philippines almost always had a patron saint assigned to each of them. Originally encouraged by the Spanish to coincide with Christian holy days, early patronal festivals became vital instruments in spreading Christianity throughout the country.[1][2][3][4]
Festivals in the Philippines can be religious, cultural, or both. Several of these are held to honor the local Roman Catholic patron saint, to commemorate local history and culture, to promote the community's products, or to celebrate a bountiful harvest. They can be marked by Holy Masses, processions, parades, theatrical play and reenactments, religious or cultural rituals, trade fairs, exhibits, concerts, pageants and various games and contests. However, festivals in the country are not limited to Christian origins. Many festivals also focus on Islamic or indigenous concepts. There are more than 42,000 known major and minor festivals in the Philippines, the majority of which are in the barangay (village) level. Due to the thousands of town, city, provincial, national, and village fiestas in the country, the Philippines has traditionally been known as the Capital of the World's Festivities.[citation needed] The majority of festivals in the Philippines may have their own peryas (trade fairs with temporary amusement parks).
Some festivals, such as Holy Week and Christmas, are declared as public holidays, and thus, are observed and celebrated nationwide.
- ^ Hicks, Nigel (2001). "Profile of the Philippines; The People". This is the Philippines. London: New Holland Publishers (UK) Ltd. pp. 23–24. ISBN 9781843301707. Retrieved November 30, 2015.
- ^ Roces, Alfredo; Roces, Grace (May 15, 2013). CultureShock! Philippines. Marshall Cavendish International Asia Pte Ltd. ISBN 9789814634908. Retrieved November 29, 2015.
- ^ "The Barrio Fiesta in the Philippines". Philippine Centre. 2012. Archived from the original on September 25, 2023. Retrieved November 29, 2015.
The one unifying element amongst the geographical, historical and cultural diversity of the Philippines is the fiesta. Described as the most beloved institution in the country, fiesta is the embodiment of everything held dear by the Filipino people – pageantry, drama, humor, friendship, religious piety and earthy revelry. The roots of the fiesta reach back to the early years of Spanish rule, when the friars coaxed their converts within hearing distance of the church bells with the pomp and ceremony of organized celebrations. The Christian aspects of fiesta thinly veil ancient beliefs pagan celebration were altered rather than outlawed, the dances and rituals offered to saints, instead of heathen gods.
- ^ "Virtual Teacher Aide". Philippines; Celebrations. Retrieved November 29, 2015.
There is always a fiesta (festival) going on somewhere in the Philippines as every city and barrio holds at least one each year. The fiesta is usually to honor the local Roman Catholic patron saint and pay homage to the barrio's namesake for good harvest and health. It is a mixture of both pagan and Catholic beliefs. These fiestas are marked by feasting and celebration of holy mass, music, dance and song.
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