The Kabayan Strawberry Festival is an exciting event that brings together local farmers, vendors, and visitors to have fun, celebrate their culture, and enjoy some delicious strawberries!
The Kabayan Strawberry Festival in Benguet is a beloved annual event in the town of Kabayan, renowned for its strawberry farms. With a rich history dating back several decades, this festival attracts locals and tourists alike. Expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with strawberry-themed activities, delicious treats, and live performances.
Come explore Kabayan’s beautiful scenery, meet friendly locals, and taste the sweetness of one of nature’s most perfect treats – strawberries! Read on to learn more about the history of the Kabayan Strawberry Festival and what you can expect when you visit.
History of the Kabayan Strawberry Festival
The Kabayan Strawberry Festival is an annual event held in the town of Kabayan, Benguet, Philippines. The festival is held in celebration of the strawberry harvest, which is one of the main agricultural products of the town.
It features a variety of activities, including a strawberry-eating contest, a strawberry-picking contest, a strawberry wine tasting, and a strawberry-themed parade. The festival also features a variety of stalls selling strawberry products, such as strawberry jam, strawberry ice cream, and strawberry wine.
The Kabayan Strawberry Festival was first held in 1997. The festival was the brainchild of then-Mayor Victorio Palang. Palang wanted to create an event that would promote the town of Kabayan and its strawberry industry. The festival was a success, and it has been held every year since then.
The Kabayan Strawberry Festival is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Cordillera Administrative Region. The festival attracts visitors from all over the Philippines and the world. The festival is a great way to experience the culture and traditions of the Cordilleras and sample the delicious strawberries of Kabayan.
What to Expect at the Kabayan Strawberry Festival
Benguet is known for its cool climate and fertile soil which make it an ideal location for growing various crops. One of the most beloved products of this region is the sweet and juicy strawberries, which are celebrated annually in the Kabayan Strawberry Festival. Here’s what you can expect if you plan to attend this colorful event.
A Bounty of Fresh Strawberries
Of course, the main highlight of the festival is the abundance of fresh strawberries that are harvested during the season. Visitors can indulge in various strawberry-based treats such as jams, pies, tarts, and ice cream. You can also buy freshly picked strawberries by the basket, and even participate in a contest to see who can pick the most strawberries in a given time.
Cultural Presentations and Performances
The Kabayan Strawberry Festival is not just about food; it is also a celebration of the local culture and heritage. Expect to be entertained by traditional dances, songs, and other performances that showcase the rich history and traditions of the Benguet people. You can also check out exhibits of local handicrafts and learn about the different aspects of their daily lives.
A Thrilling Adventure
For those who want to get their adrenaline pumping, there are several outdoor activities that you can enjoy during the festival. The strawberry fields offer picturesque views that are perfect for hiking, camping, and picnicking. You can also try horseback riding and off-road biking, or take a dip in one of the natural hot springs in the area.
A Festive Atmosphere
The Kabayan Strawberry Festival is a fun and festive affair that brings people together from different parts of the country and the world. The streets are lined with colorful decorations.
Everyone is in high spirits as they enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the event. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends, create lasting memories, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Benguet.
How to Get to the Kabayan Strawberry Festival
The Kabayan Strawberry Festival is a yearly event that celebrates the town’s strawberry harvest and features a variety of activities, including strawberry picking, strawberry-themed food and drinks, and live entertainment.
There are a few ways to get to the Kabayan Strawberry Festival.
By plane: The nearest airport to Kabayan is the Baguio City International Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Kabayan.
By bus: There are a number of bus companies that offer direct buses to Kabayan from Manila and other major cities in the Philippines.
By car: If you are driving to Kabayan, you will need to take Kennon Road. The drive from Manila takes approximately 6 hours.
Where to Stay Near the Kabayan Strawberry Festival
When visiting the Kabayan Strawberry Festival, finding suitable accommodations in close proximity to the festival grounds is essential. Luckily, there are several options available to cater to different preferences and budgets. Here is a list of recommended places to stay near the festival, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience for festival-goers:
1. Pinecone Lodge and Restaurant
If you’re heading to the Kabayan Strawberry Festival and are looking for a place to stay, Pinecone Lodge and Restaurant is an excellent option. This cozy lodge provides comfortable accommodations that are perfect after a long day of exploring the festival.
The lodge’s clean and modern rooms make for a refreshing retreat from the buzzing crowds at the festival. But the experience doesn’t end there. Pinecone Lodge also boasts a fantastic restaurant that serves up delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
Address: JRGQ+97F, Gurel – Bokod – Kabayan – Buguias – Abatan Rd, Kabayan, Benguet
Phone: +63927 586 0221
For directions, click here.
2. Baban’s Homestay
Baban’s Homestay offers comfortable and clean rooms, coupled with warm hospitality that will make you feel right at home. Start your day with a sumptuous Filipino breakfast and indulge in the sweet goodness of fresh strawberries picked from nearby farms.
Baban’s Homestay is the perfect choice for an enjoyable and hassle-free stay during your visit to Kabayan. Book your stay at Baban’s Homestay now and experience the beauty of Kabayan like never before.
Address: HV7H+69R, Kabayan, Benguet
For directions, click here.
3. Giraffe Boutique Hotel
Located just a short distance from the festival, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities. From the moment you step into the lobby, the hotel’s attention to detail will impress you.
The rooms are stylishly decorated and well-appointed with all the modern conveniences you could ask for. But what really sets the Giraffe Boutique Hotel apart is its personalized service. The staff are friendly and accommodating and always go out of their way to make sure guests have everything they need.
Address: Barangay, 5 C. Arellano Street, corner Moran St, Baguio, Benguet
Phone: +63916 497 7869
For directions, click here.
What to Eat at the Kabayan Strawberry Festival
Aside from the breathtaking scenery and the colorful festivities, one of the highlights of the festival is the food. Here are some must-try dishes when visiting the Kabayan Strawberry Festival.
Strawberry Taho
Taho is a popular Filipino snack made from soft tofu, caramelized brown sugar syrup, and sago pearls. At the Kabayan Strawberry Festival, you can enjoy a unique twist on this classic snack with the addition of fresh strawberries. The sweet and tart flavor of the berries complements the creamy texture of the tofu, making for a delicious and refreshing treat.
Strawberry Ice Cream
What better way to beat the heat than with a scoop (or two) of strawberry ice cream? The Kabayan Strawberry Festival offers a variety of ice cream options that showcase the flavors of fresh, locally grown strawberries. You can enjoy this sweet treat on its own or as a topping on other desserts.
Strawberry Jam
If you want to bring home a taste of the Kabayan Strawberry Festival, make sure to grab a jar of strawberry jam. The jam is made from the freshest strawberries picked from local farms and cooked down with just the right amount of sugar. Spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, or use it as a topping for your favorite desserts.
Strawberry Shake
Cool off with a refreshing strawberry shake. Made with fresh strawberries, milk, and ice, this drink is a perfect way to enjoy the flavor of strawberries while staying hydrated. Customize your shake by adding other fruits or toppings like whipped cream or chocolate syrup.
Strawberry Shortcake
End your food adventure at the Kabayan Strawberry Festival with a slice of strawberry shortcake. The cake is made with layers of fluffy sponge cake, whipped cream, and freshly sliced strawberries. It’s a classic dessert that perfectly showcases the sweetness of the local strawberries.
Things to Do in Kabayan Besides the Strawberry Festival
While many visitors flock to Kabayan for the annual Strawberry Festival, there are plenty of other exciting things to do in this scenic destination. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or immerse yourself in local culture. Here are some top picks for things to do in Kabayan besides the Strawberry Festival.
1. Visit the Kabayan Burial Caves– These caves are home to the mummified remains of the Ibaloi people, who have been practicing mummification for centuries.
2. Go hiking in the Kabayan Highlands– The highlands offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
3. Visit the Kabayan Hot Springs– The hot springs are a great place to relax and soak away your cares.
4. Go white water rafting in the Chico River– The Chico River is a popular spot for white water rafting and offers a thrilling experience for all levels of experience.
5. Visit the Kabayan Museum– The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the Ibaloi people and their culture.
6. Go trekking to Mount Pulag– Mount Pulag is the highest mountain in Luzon, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
7. Visit the Lake Danum Eco-Tourism Park– The park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including the endangered Philippine eagle.
In conclusion
The Kabayan Strawberry Festival is an annual event that celebrates the abundance of fresh strawberries in the region and brings together locals and tourists alike. From strawberry picking contests to cultural performances, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant festival.
Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or sample some delicious strawberry treats, a visit to the Kabayan Strawberry Festival is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So make sure to mark your calendars and join in on the festivities!