Pahiyas Festival
Introduction
The Pahiyas Festival is a thanksgiving celebration held every May 15th in the town of Lucban, Quezon, Philippines. It is one of the most colorful and vibrant festivals in the Philippines, and it is a major tourist attraction. The festival is also known as the “Feast of San Isidro,” in honor of the patron saint of farmers.
History of the Pahiyas Festival
The Pahiyas Festival has its roots in pre-colonial times, when the Tagalog people celebrated a harvest festival called “Pagdiriwang ng Ani.” The festival was a way for the people to thank the gods for a bountiful harvest.
When the Spanish arrived in the Philippines in the 16th century, they introduced the Catholic faith to the Tagalog people. The Tagalog people eventually merged their traditional harvest festival with the Catholic feast of San Isidro, and the Pahiyas Festival was born.
Highlights of the Pahiyas Festival
The Pahiyas Festival is a week-long celebration that features a variety of events, including:
Pahilod: The pahilod is a traditional offering of fruits, vegetables, and flowers to San Isidro. The pahilod is typically displayed on bamboo arches that adorn the houses of Lucban residents.
Sayaw ng Sakong: The Sayaw ng Sakong is a traditional dance performed by women carrying baskets of fruits and vegetables on their heads. The dance is a symbol of gratitude for the bountiful harvest.
Pagbibigay ng Lugaw: The pagbibigay ng lugaw is a tradition of giving out free lugaw (rice porridge) to festivalgoers. The lugaw is a symbol of sharing and generosity.
Street parades: The Pahiyas Festival also features a number of street parades, where colorful floats and marching bands make their way through the streets of Lucban.
Other events: The festival also includes a number of other events, such as a cooking competition, a beauty pageant, and a trade fair.
Date, Days
This festival begins on May 15th.
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 Lucban is the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Lucban.
By Bus
Several bus companies offer direct routes from Manila to Lucban. The bus ride takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Bus tickets can be purchased online or at the bus terminals.
By Taxi
Taking a taxi is a more convenient but expensive option compared to taking the bus. The taxi ride from Manila to Lucban takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Taxi fares can be negotiated with the driver.
