Timpupo Festival
Introduction
The Timpupo Festival: A Celebration of Abundance and Thanksgiving in Kidapawan City
Held annually in Kidapawan City, Cotabato, Philippines, the Timpupo Festival is a vibrant week-long celebration that showcases the city’s rich agricultural heritage and its bountiful harvest. The festival’s name is derived from the Manobo word “timpupo,” meaning “to pick up, harvest, or harvest season.” It is a time for the people of Kidapawan City to express their gratitude for the blessings of the land and to celebrate the abundance of fruits that the region produces.
A Week of Festivities
The Timpupo Festival kicks off on August 12th and culminates on August 18th, coinciding with Kidapawan City’s founding anniversary. Throughout the week, a diverse array of events and activities fill the streets of Kidapawan City, immersing visitors and locals alike in the city’s festive spirit.
Celebrating Agricultural Heritage
At the heart of the Timpupo Festival lies a celebration of Kidapawan City’s deep connection to agriculture. The festival features a colorful parade showcasing agricultural produce, farm animals, and traditional farming practices. Local farmers proudly display their best fruits and vegetables, reflecting the region’s agricultural abundance.
Fruit Galore: A Feast for the Senses
One of the most popular highlights of the Timpupo Festival is the Fruit Galore, a grand feast where tons of fresh fruits are laid out on tables stretching for kilometers along a main road. Visitors are encouraged to indulge in the bounty of fruits, savoring the sweet flavors of nature’s gifts.
Cultural Extravaganza
The Timpupo Festival also showcases Kidapawan City’s rich cultural heritage. Traditional dance performances, such as the lively Tinikling and the graceful Ipasu, fill the air with energy, while local artisans proudly display their handcrafted wares, from intricate woven baskets to exquisite jewelry pieces.
A Culinary Delights
The Timpupo Festival is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a tantalizing array of culinary delights. Local delicacies take center stage, with fresh seafood dishes and traditional Manobo cuisine showcasing the flavors of Kidapawan City’s culinary heritage. Visitors can indulge in street food stalls offering mouthwatering treats or savor more elaborate meals at local restaurants.
A Celebration of Community
The Timpupo Festival is more than just a series of events; it’s a celebration of Kidapawan City’s strong sense of community. The festival brings together people from all walks of life, fostering a spirit of unity and camaraderie. Locals and visitors alike come together to share their love for their city, creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds that tie them together.
A Festival with a Lasting Impact
The Timpupo Festival leaves a lasting impact on Kidapawan City, long after the festivities have ended. The festival serves as a powerful reminder of the city’s rich agricultural heritage, its vibrant culture, and its warm hospitality. It is a celebration that not only entertains but also inspires, fostering a sense of pride and unity among the people of Kidapawan City.
The Timpupo Festival: An Invitation to Experience Kidapawan City’s Bounty
The Timpupo Festival is an invitation to experience the heart and soul of Kidapawan City. It is a celebration of abundance, thanksgiving, and community, offering a glimpse into the city’s unique identity and the warm hospitality of its people. Join the festivities and discover the captivating charm of Kidapawan City, a place where tradition and modernity converge in a harmonious blend.
Date, Days
In 2023, the festival will be held from the 10th to the 18th.
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 airport to Kidapawan City is the Awang Airport (AWN), located approximately 40 kilometers north of the city. Several airlines offer regular flights to Awang from Manila, Cebu, and Davao. From Awang Airport, you can take a van or taxi to Kidapawan City. The travel time is approximately 1 to 2 hours.
By Bus
Several bus companies offer direct bus services from Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other major cities in the Philippines to Kidapawan City. The bus ride from Manila takes approximately 20 to 24 hours, from Cebu 12 to 15 hours, and from Davao 4 to 5 hours.
Once in Kidapawan City
Once you arrive in Kidapawan City, you can easily get around by tricycle, jeepney, or taxi. During the Timpupo Festival, there will be special transportation arrangements to accommodate the influx of visitors.