Cities, municipalities and even islands have their own festivals as a way of commemorating their beginnings. While enjoying the catchy music and graceful dances that often have easy steps to replicate, witnessing festivals in Cebu is a great way to get to know the place as they tell stories about certain places and the Cebuanos living in those places.
Festival themes are often religious, cultural and historical, showcasing what a certain place is famous for. The locals work hand in hand not just to make the event a success, but also in keeping the stories of the town alive.
Here are some of the famous festivals in Cebu:
1. Sinulog
When people speak of festivals, this often comes to mind. Famous not just in the Philippines but also outside the country, Cebu City’s Sinulog is among the grandest and most celebrated of festivals, and is held on the 3rd Sunday of January, in honor of the Child Jesus or, as what Cebuanos call, the Santo Niño. People attend masses at the Basilica del Sto. Niño, which during this time concludes in spirited chants that the churchgoers gladly participate in. Cebu tour packages 2020 often include a visit to the church which is one of the must-visit places in the island. Processions, street dances as well as competitions are just among the many things you can expect during Sinulog.
2. Kadaugan Sa Mactan
Celebrated between April 22 and 27, the historical resort city of Lapu-Lapu becomes more alive as it reenacts the Battle of Mactan between Datu Lapu-Lapu and Ferdinand Magellan. The foreigner was invading the island of Mactan and the locals successfully stood up to them, driving the invaders away from the shores of Mactan.
3. Toslob Festival
Celebrated every December 8 in Oslob, the Toslob Festival is celebrated with street dancing and even a beauty contest, just like other Cebuano festivals. It is a feast of thanksgiving, and the town expresses its gratitude for bountiful catches and harvests. Other than the Oslob whale sharks, the town is also known as a fishing village.
4. Pintos Festival
Held in Bogo City between May 26 and 27, the Pintos Festival is based on the local delicacy that is made from corn, eggs and condensed milk. It is also a time to honor Saint Vincent Ferrer, the patron saint of Bogo. There’s a showcase of cultural tourism and you can expect the streets to become a mardi gras party.
5. Tag-Anito Festival
To celebrate the Tag-Anito Festival, the town of Tudela in Camotes recalls the ancient practice of worshiping anitos or nature spirits. It used to be practiced by Cebuanos before the coming of the Spaniards. During the festival, the tale of the folk hero Mandayang will be dramatized from December 8 until 9.
Cebu has rich culture and history, which is portrayed by the many festivals it holds per year. The above mentioned are but of few of the list. What better way to get to know the province and its people through each town’s retelling of their origins through songs, dances, parades, and food, among many others?
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