Are you looking for a great place to experience the unique culture and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature? Then look no further than Benguet, Philippines! This stunning mountainous region is home to some of the most remarkable festivals in the country.
Benguet’s must-see festivals include the Strawberry Festival with picks and strawberry-inspired dishes, the Adivay Festival celebrating culture, Bendian Festival showcasing indigenous dances, Fruit Festival highlighting fresh fruits, Panagbenga Festival with flower floats, Ibagiw Creative Festival for local artists, and the Mangan Taku Food Festival featuring culinary delights.
Read on to discover why this wonderful destination is the perfect place for your next vacation!
1. Strawberry Festival
If you are looking for a unique festival experience in the Philippines, then you cannot miss the Strawberry Festival in Benguet. This highly anticipated event celebrates the bountiful strawberry harvest in the region.
During the festival, the streets are filled with vibrant colors, sweet aromas, and joyful music as locals and tourists alike come together to admire the works of talented artists, indulge in scrumptious strawberry treats, and witness street dance performances.
From giant strawberry sculptures to intricate strawberry-themed products, the festival offers a wide range of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. So if you want to experience the taste and beauty of Benguet’s strawberries, be sure to mark your calendar for this must-see festival.
Month: March
2. Adivay Festival
The Philippines is home to a plethora of festivals that showcase the country’s vibrant culture and traditions. One of the must-see festivals in the mountainous province of Benguet is the Adivay Festival.
This colorful event is celebrated annually to honor the rich culture and heritage of the Ibaloi, Kalanguya, and Kankana-ey tribes. The festival features a variety of activities, including street dancing, parades, agricultural fairs, and sports competitions.
Tourists can also enjoy sampling the region’s delicious food and drinks while watching traditional performances by local artists. Adivay Festival is an educational and entertaining event that offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and customs of the Cordillera region, making it a must-see for all visitors to the Philippines.
Month: November (month-long celebration)
3. Bendian Festival
If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, be sure to add Benguet to your list of must-see destinations. This beautiful mountain province is home to the Bendian Festival, a vibrant and colorful celebration that takes place every year in the month of March.
During the festival, locals from the various indigenous tribes in the area come together to showcase their traditional dances, music, and cultural practices. The festival is a feast for the senses, with intricate costumes, lively drumming and singing, and lots of delicious food to sample.
It’s a unique opportunity to learn more about the fascinating history and culture of the Philippines, and to experience the warmth and hospitality of the local people. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable celebration!
Month: April (month-long celebration)
4. Fruit Festival
Benguet is an idyllic province nestled in the Cordillera Mountains of the Philippines. When it comes to festivals, no other event there is as anticipated as the annual Fruit Festival. An array of farm-fresh fruits burst with flavors and vibrant colors, offering a fascinating visual spectacle for all visitors.
Participating farmers display their overflowing harvest with pride. The lively festival often features musical performances, parades, and games, adding to the festive vibe.
Whether you want to munch on juicy pineapples, indulge in sweet mangoes or bite into crunchy apples, the Fruit Festival is a must-see festival that should be on your itinerary when you visit the province of Benguet.
Month: September
5. Panagbenga Festival
The Panagbenga Festival is a stunning event that is a must-see celebration while in Benguet in the Philippines. This unique festival was established in 1995 and has since become renowned as one of the most colorful, lively, and exciting festivals in the country.
The festival is a celebration of the region’s blooming season and features vibrant street dances, massive floral parades, music, and feasting. Visitors are offered a rare opportunity to witness and partake in the festivities, which are a reflection of the province’s cultural heritage and tourist attractions.
As such, it is the perfect time for tourists to immerse themselves in the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Benguet while partaking in this enjoyable and educational experience.
Month: February (month-long celebration)
6. Ibagiw Creative Festival
If you’re searching for a unique and fascinating cultural experience in the Philippines, look no further than the Ibagiw Creative Festival. Located in Benguet, this festival is a must-see event that draws in artists and creatives from all over the country.
The festival showcases a diverse array of art and performances, including visual arts, musical performances, and cultural dances. Attendees can expect to be immersed in the vibrant energy of the festival, which celebrates the rich culture and heritage of the region.
With so much to see and experience, the Ibagiw Creative Festival is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the art and culture of the Philippines.
Month: September
7. Mangan Taku Food Festival
Located in Benguet, Philippines, the Mangan Taku Food Festival is a must-see event for food enthusiasts. This festival invites visitors to explore the diverse range of flavors and culinary traditions of the region.
From rich, meaty stews to fresh, locally-sourced fruits and vegetables, there is no shortage of delicious options at this festival. Beyond the food, visitors can also take in the vibrant culture of the Philippines through live music and cultural performances.
Whether you are a seasoned foodie or simply looking to explore a new culture, the Mangan Taku Food Festival is an experience not to be missed.
Month: April – May (last week of April to 1st week of May)
In conclusion
Located in the northern region of the Philippines, the province of Benguet is home to a diverse array of festivals that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region. From the dazzling colors of the Panagbenga Festival to the vibrant beats of the Adivay Festival, these events provide a unique opportunity to experience the local traditions and customs of the area.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler to the Philippines, these 7 must-see festivals in Benguet are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and celebrate the vibrant spirit of the Filipino people.
