Famous Festivals In La Union: Celebrating Culture, Tradition, and History

La Union, a coastal province located in the Ilocos Region of the Philippines, is famous for its stunning beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, and warm people. Aside from its natural attractions, it is also a melting pot of culture and tradition, which is showcased through its various festivals.

The Grape Harvest Festival 🍇

Also known as the Tapuey Festival, this event celebrates the grape harvest season in Bauang, La Union. It is held every March, and it features a grape-picking competition, cultural shows, and a wine-tasting event.

The Pindangan Festival 🐟

This festival is celebrated every April in San Fernando, La Union. It is a tribute to the fishermen who brave the rough waves of the West Philippine Sea to provide for their families. The festival features a street parade, a fishing competition, and a food fair showcasing the province’s fresh seafood.

The Kannawidan Ylocos Festival 🎉

Although it is not exclusively celebrated in La Union, the Kannawidan Ylocos Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the region. It is a week-long celebration of Ilocano culture and heritage, featuring various activities such as street dancing, beauty pageants, and trade fairs. The festival is held every January in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, which is a neighboring province of La Union.

The La Union Surfing Break 🏄‍♂️

Aside from cultural festivals, La Union is also known for its surfing scene. The La Union Surfing Break is an annual surfing competition held at the Urbiztondo Beach in San Juan, La Union. It attracts local and international surfers, as well as tourists who want to witness the exciting and adrenaline-pumping sport.

The Mango-Bamboo Festival 🥭

As the name suggests, this festival celebrates the abundance of mango and bamboo in the town of Bauang, La Union. It is held every April, and it features a street parade, a trade fair, and a cooking contest that highlights the use of mango and bamboo as ingredients.

The Kawayan Festival 🎋

Another festival that showcases the importance of bamboo in the province is the Kawayan Festival. It is held every June in the town of Naguilian, La Union, and it features a street parade, a bamboo planting activity, and a bamboo products exhibit.

The Adivay Festival 🌾

Derived from the Ilocano term adivay, which means coming together, this festival is a celebration of unity among the people of La Union. It is held every November in the town of Kapangan, La Union, and it features a street parade, a cultural show, and a sports festival.

The Boling-Boling Festival 🎭

This festival is celebrated every January in the town of Catanauan, La Union. It is a colorful and lively event that features a grand parade of people dressed in colorful costumes and masks. The festival symbolizes the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of a new year.

The San Vicente Ferrer Festival 🌺

Named after the patron saint of the town, this festival is celebrated every May in San Vicente, La Union. It features a street parade, a beauty pageant, and a trade fair. The festival is an opportunity for the locals to showcase their talents and products.

The Tumba Festival 🥁

This festival is a unique way of celebrating All Saints’ Day in the town of Luna, La Union. It features a street parade of people dressed in skeleton costumes, playing drums and other musical instruments. The festival is a reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring the dead.

The Town Fiesta 🎉

Aside from the individual festivals in each town, La Union is also known for its town fiestas. Each town has its own patron saint, and the fiesta is a celebration of the saint’s feast day. It features a grand parade, a mass, and a variety of activities such as sports festivals, beauty pageants, and cultural shows.

The La Union Foundation Day 🎂

Celebrated every March 2, the La Union Foundation Day is a commemoration of the province’s creation. It features a flag-raising ceremony, a civic parade, and a cultural show. The day is an opportunity for the people of La Union to reflect on their history and culture.

The La Union Day 🌞

Celebrated every March 8, the La Union Day is a celebration of the province’s identity and pride. It features a grand parade, a trade fair, and a fireworks display. The day is an opportunity for the people of La Union to come together and celebrate their achievements and aspirations.

The La Union Surfing and Music Festival 🏄‍♀️🎶

This festival is a fusion of music and surfing held every October in San Juan, La Union. It features local and international surfers competing in the waves, and live performances by popular bands and artists. The festival is an opportunity for the people of La Union to showcase their love for both music and surfing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit La Union?

The best time to visit La Union is from October to March, when the weather is generally dry, and the surfing conditions are ideal.

How do I get to La Union?

La Union is accessible by land, air, and sea. The nearest airport is in San Fernando, La Union, which is serviced by Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific. There are also buses and jeepneys that ply the Manila-La Union route.

What are the must-try dishes in La Union?

Some of the must-try dishes in La Union are the dinengdeng, a vegetable soup with grilled fish, and the paksiw na bangus, a sour stew made with milkfish.

Are there any accommodations in La Union?

Yes, there are plenty of accommodations in La Union, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Some of the popular ones are the Thunderbird Resorts and Casinos, Costa Villa Beach Resort, and Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa.

What are the other activities to do in La Union aside from surfing?

Aside from surfing, you can also go on a waterfall-hopping tour, visit historical landmarks such as the Ma-Cho Temple and the Christ the Redeemer Statue, and explore the various museums in the province.

Can I celebrate the festivals with the locals?

Yes, you can join in the festivities and celebrate with the locals. They are known for their warm hospitality and would gladly welcome visitors who are interested in their culture and traditions.

Are the festivals safe for tourists?

Yes, the festivals are safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution and take necessary precautions, such as keeping your valuables secured and following safety protocols.

What is the dress code for the festivals?

The dress code for the festivals depends on the theme of the event. It is always best to ask the locals or the event organizers for guidance on what to wear.

Can I take photos during the festivals?

Yes, you can take photos during the festivals. However, it is always best to ask for permission first, especially if you are taking photos of the locals or their properties.

What is the significance of the festivals in La Union?

The festivals in La Union are significant because they showcase the province’s rich culture and tradition. They are also an opportunity for the locals to come together and celebrate their identity and pride.

Are there any entrance fees for the festivals?

It depends on the festival. Some events are free, while others require an entrance fee. It is best to check with the event organizers for the fees and other details.

What should I bring when attending a festival in La Union?

You should bring comfortable clothes and shoes, a hat or a cap, sunblock, and a camera. It is also best to bring cash, as there might not be any ATMs in the area.

Can I buy souvenirs during the festivals?

Yes, you can buy souvenirs during the festivals. There are usually trade fairs where you can buy locally-made products such as handicrafts, food items, and clothing.

What is the most attended festival in La Union?

The most attended festival in La Union is the Kannawidan Ylocos Festival, which is held every January in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Although it is not exclusively celebrated in La Union, many locals participate in the festival.

Conclusion

La Union is not only a destination for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts, but it is also a province rich in culture