The Philippines has hundreds of festivals and most towns have their own celebrations in addition to the popular festivals we are familiar with. Lasting anywhere between a day to an entire month, Philippine Festivals are mostly religious and cultural celebrations that attract thousands of local and foreign tourists because of its fun and colorful vibe.
List of major Festivals in the Philippines in January
Feast of Black Nazarene
Where: Quiapo
When: 9th of January
What is it all about? The Feast of Black Nazarene is one of the largest religious events in the Philippines, the annual Traslacion happening every 9th of January commemorates the first procession when the Black Nazarene was transferred from Intramuros to the Basilica Minor of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo in Manila. Thousands of devotees go to Quiapo to take part in the procession.
Sinulog Festival
Where: Cebu City
When: 3rd Sunday of January
What is it all about? The Sinulog is an annual festival held on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City, Philippines. It’s one of the grandest and most colorful festivals in the country. It is basically celebrated to honor the Santo Niño, or the child Jesus, patron of the city of Cebu. It is a dance ritual which remembers the Cebuano’s pagan past and their recognition of Christianity. It features street dancing,
Dinagyang Festival
Where: Iloilo City
When: 4th Sunday of January
What is it all about? A showcase of rich cultural heritage and colorful history, the Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo is one of the most popular festivals in the Philippines. It is celebrated to honor Senyor Santo Niño, the child Jesus. Highlights of Dinagyang are the Fluvial Parade by Friday, Kasadyahan Cultural Parade by Saturday and the Dinagyang Ati Competition by Sunday.
Ati-Atihan Festival
Where: Kalibo
When: 3rd Sunday of January
What is it all about? Considered to be the oldest among the festivals in the Philippines, the Ati-Atihan is a yearly feast held to celebrate Santo Niño, the child Jesus in Kalibo. It is famous for its one-of-a-kind
Other Philippine Festivals to watch out for in January
Kuyamis Festival
Where: Cagayan de Oro City
When: January 6-11
What is it all about? It is an annual festivity of thanksgiving and acknowledgment of the customs of the “lumads” who thrived in the Province of Misamis Oriental. It’s a week-long celebration participated by all towns and cities of the province.
Diyandi Festival
Where: Balingasag, Misamis Oriental
When: 3rd Monday of January
What is it all about? It’s basically Balingasag’s version of the Sinulog Festival.
Did we miss something? Do you know of any major Festivals in the Philippines not included in the list celebrated in January? Please let us know in the comment below. If you are from the local tourism office and would like your Festival included in this list, please email me with the festival’s name and a short description. Thank you!