Bambanti Festival
Introduction
The Bambanti Festival is an annual cultural and thanksgiving festival held in the province of Isabela, Philippines, every fourth week of January. It is a celebration of the province’s rich agricultural heritage and the role of scarecrows, or bambanti in the Ilocano language, in protecting crops from birds and other pests.
The festival features a variety of colorful and lively events, including:
- The Bambanti Street Dance Competition: This is the highlight of the festival, featuring dance troupes from all over Isabela performing traditional and contemporary dances to the beat of drums and other percussion instruments.
- The Bambanti Giant Scarecrow Showcase: This is an exhibition of giant scarecrows made from a variety of materials, such as bamboo, hay, and cloth. The scarecrows are often decorated with colorful costumes and depict scenes from everyday life in Isabela.
- The Agri-ecotourism Fair: This fair showcases the best of Isabela’s agricultural produce and handicrafts. Visitors can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and other products, as well as souvenirs and other locally made items.
- The Culinary Festival: This festival features a variety of Isabela’s traditional dishes. Visitors can sample a variety of local delicacies, such as pinikpikan (chicken soup), pancit Cabagan (noodle dish), and binallay (rice cake).
The Bambanti Festival is a great opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of Isabela. It is a fun and festive event that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Date, Days
The festival begins on Fourth Sunday of January.
Please refer to the button below for the exact date.
(This is the starting date of the festival or the date on when the festival is being held.)
Location
How to get there
By Air
The nearest airports to Isabela Province are Cauayan City Airport (CAU) and Tuguegarao City Airport (TUG). Both airports offer regular flights from Manila, the capital of the Philippines.
By Bus
Several bus companies offer regular bus services from Manila and other major cities in the Philippines to Ilagan City. The bus ride from Manila to Ilagan City takes about 8-10 hours.
Once in Ilagan City
Once you're in Ilagan City, you can take a jeepney or tricycle to your hotel or accommodation. You can also hire a taxi or van for a more comfortable ride.