11 Best Festivals to Join in the Philippines

Experience the colorful culture of the Philippines by joining the vibrant festivals around the country. Find out the top festivals that are worth traveling to and learn about the event highlights in this article. 

The Philippines is known around the world not only for its stunning natural wonders but also for the locals’ love to get together and celebrate. Proof of this is the long list of cultural festivals in the country.



There are a number of holidays, long weekends, and top festivals in the Philippines that happen throughout the year. These vibrant festivals are characterized by the history, artistry, creativity, and passion of the people. While some of them take place for just a day, a lot of them are celebrated for a week and even for an entire month.

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Majorettes at the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Cavite, PhilippinesTravelers are attracted by these celebrations, along with the energetic, colorful, and fun environment they create. In fact, some of the celebrations are some of Asia’s most popular festivals.


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Here is a list of the best and must-see festivals in the Philippines:

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11. Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Philippine International Hot Air Balloon in Carmona of Cavite, Philippines

When: February or March

Where: New Clark City, Tarlac

Unlike most of the traditional festivals in the country, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is an extraordinary one and is often hailed as one of the top events in Pampanga.

 This 3-day festivity includes activities such as hot air balloon flying, skydiving, formation flying, paragliding, and aerobatic displays.

People all over the country and across the world gather during February to experience Asia’s longest-running sports event and to celebrate heart’s day with their loved ones.

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10. Giant Lantern Festival    

When: December

Where: San Fernando City, Pampanga

Feel the holiday cheer during the Giant Lantern Festival in Pampanga. San Fernando City or the Christmas Capital of the Philippines organizes the competition of giant lanterns during the weekend before Christmas Eve.

Participants create gigantic and bright lanterns made from locally sourced materials and parade them to each barrio or town in Pampanga before the midnight mass of Christmas. Add some Pampanga activities or book a stay at Pampanga hotels to make your Christmas holiday more special.

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