Louie Sison
August is a festive month in the Philippines, filled with holidays, festivals, and special days celebrating the country’s rich culture, history, and traditions.
From religious observances to patriotic commemorations to colorful harvest celebrations, there is something for everyone to enjoy during this lively time of year.
Let’s take a look at the key events happening in August 2024.
Regular and Special Non-Working Holidays
There are two official holidays in August 2024 according to Proclamation No. 368 signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.:
- August 21, 2024 (Wednesday) – Ninoy Aquino Day – This special non-working holiday commemorates the assassination of former Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. in 1983. His death is considered a key moment in the fight against the Marcos dictatorship that eventually led to the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. Many Filipinos honor Ninoy Aquino’s legacy by participating in events and gatherings on this day.
- August 26, 2024 (Monday) – National Heroes Day – Celebrated on the last Monday of August, this regular holiday pays tribute to all Philippine national heroes who fought for the country’s independence. It’s a day to reflect on their sacrifices and contributions. Some Filipinos visit historical sites and museums to learn more about these heroes.
The long weekend created by National Heroes Day falling on a Monday provides an opportunity for families to go on vacations or staycations. Popular destinations include beaches, mountain resorts, and heritage towns.
Colorful Festivals and Fiestas
August is also a month of lively festivals (fiestas) across the archipelago celebrating everything from religious feasts to bountiful harvests to local culture and history. Notable ones include:
Kadayawan Festival (Davao City)
The Kadayawan Festival is Davao City’s biggest annual event honoring the indigenous peoples and abundant harvests of the region.
Held in the third week of August, it features street dancing competitions, floral floats, trade fairs showcasing local products, and other cultural presentations. Tourists flock to Davao to join the festivities and enjoy the city’s many attractions like the Philippine Eagle Center and Samal Island.
Higalaay Festival (Cagayan de Oro)
Also known as the Kagay-an Festival, this month-long celebration culminates in Cagayan de Oro City’s fiesta on August 28 in honor of St. Augustine.
Higalaay, which means “beautiful” in the local language, perfectly describes the festival’s many colorful events like street dancing, cultural shows, culinary competitions, sports tournaments, and more. It’s a wonderful showcase of the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the people of Cagayan de Oro.
Pangasinan Bamboo Festival (Calasiao and Sta. Barbara)
Held on August 14, this unique festival puts the spotlight on Pangasinan’s bamboo industry. Bamboo is an important resource for the province, used in making furniture, handicrafts, musical instruments, and even as a food ingredient.
The festival includes exhibits of bamboo products, cooking contests using bamboo shoots, and bamboo planting activities. It’s a great way to promote the sustainable use of this versatile plant.
Other Notable Fiestas and Festivals
- Tig-Aw Festival (August 5-12, Tigaon, Camarines Sur) – An annual thanksgiving celebration in honor of St. Clare of Assisi featuring street dancing, cultural presentations, and a farmers’ festival.
- Coron Festival (August 5-13, Tiwi, Albay) – A festival showcasing the town’s different schools through dance and musical performances.
- Mercedes Kadagatan Festival (August 1-8, Mercedes, Camarines Norte) – A fishermen’s thanksgiving celebration for the blessings and bounty of the sea.
- Pangapog Festival (August 1-7, Samal Island, Davao) – A thanksgiving festival for a bountiful harvest highlighting the culture of the indigenous Sama people through sports and cultural competitions.
- Mercedes FISHtival (August 6-11, Mercedes, Camarines Norte) – Another thanksgiving festival by local fisherfolk for the blessings received during seafaring and fish farming.
- Ibalong Festival (August 12-30, Legazpi City) – A festival depicting Bicol’s early beginnings as portrayed in the epic Ibalong, featuring street dancing and the Mayon Triathlon.
These vibrant festivals are wonderful opportunities for Filipinos and foreign visitors alike to immerse in the country’s rich heritage and experience the warm hospitality of its people.
Other Special Days and Observances
Aside from the official holidays and festivals, there are a few other notable days in August that many Filipinos observe or celebrate:
- Buwan ng Wika (National Language Month) – The whole month of August is designated as Buwan ng Wika or National Language Month to promote the national language Filipino and celebrate the country’s linguistic diversity. Schools and government offices hold various activities like poetry readings, song competitions, and debates in Filipino. It culminates on August 19, the birth anniversary of President Manuel L. Quezon who played a key role in making Filipino the national language.
- Kain Na! Food and Travel Festival (August 18-20, Ayala Malls) – A 3-day food and travel fair organized by the Department of Tourism and Ayala Malls showcasing culinary tourism in the Philippines. It features regional food stalls, cooking demos, talks by renowned chefs and food experts, and special promos on hotels and travel packages. It’s a great way to explore the diverse flavors of the country and plan your next food trip.
- Cine Europa Film Festival (August 25-31, select venues) – An annual film festival organized by the EU Delegation to the Philippines screening acclaimed movies from different European countries. It aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding between the EU and the Philippines through the power of cinema. Screenings are usually free and held in various venues in Metro Manila and other key cities nationwide.
So whether you’re in the mood for a festive street party, a solemn religious procession, a patriotic ceremony, or a cultural immersion, you’ll find something to enjoy in the Philippines this August.
The month offers a delightful mix of holidays, festivals, and special events that showcase the best of the Filipino spirit – our faith, our resilience, our creativity, our love for celebration, and our warm hospitality.
Filipinos and foreign visitors are welcome to join in the merriment and discover the many reasons why it’s more fun in the Philippines!
As you plan your activities for the month, do check the latest health and safety protocols in your destination. Many events may have adjusted schedules or requirements in light of the pandemic. It’s best to verify details with the organizers or local tourism offices before making your trip.
Have a happy and meaningful August, everyone! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
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