Many tourists flock to Bohol to witness its natural beauty and discover its eco-tourism attractions. But Bohol is also an exciting island full of vibrant festivities that are loved by locals and tourists alike. Each festival is a celebration of Bohol’s culture, as well as a showcase of Boholanos’ talent, creativity, and love for revelries. Experience what it’s like to revel in Bohol as we list down some of the island’s best festivals and when they happen.
Sandugo Festival
Modern-day performers reenact the historic blood compact between the Spanish diplomat and the local tribe leader.
Perhaps the most popular festival in Bohol, the Sandugo Festival is a month-long celebration held in Tagbilaran City every July. This festival commemorates the Treaty of Friendship between Bohol chieftain Datu Sikatuma and Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi which was sealed with a sandugo ritual or blood compact, hence the name. This exciting festival features trade and agricultural fairs, a flower and garden show, song festivals, beauty pageants and a street performance of Kuradang, a traditional Boholano dance.
Saulog Festival (Tagbilaran City Fiesta)
Photo: driftstories.com
Tagbilaran City celebrates the feast of Saint Joseph, the city’s patron saint, every 1st of May. One of the most awaited occasions in Bohol, the Tagbilaran City Fiesta features a lot of exciting happenings. During the nine days before the feast, fun-filled events such as pageants, concerts, and other live entertainment are already being held every night. During the actual feast day, locals and tourists alike are welcomed with exciting activities and a generous spread of local specialties.
Ubi Festival
A tradition that started in 2000, the Ubi Festival is held every January to celebrate the ubi crop that has become an agro-historical symbol for Bohol. The festival aims to further promote the ubi crop in other parts of the country. All events and activities during this month-long celebration are held to showcase ubi and the many other products that are made using this root crop. The celebration usually features cultural activities, seminars, and exhibits.
Bolibong Kingking Festival
Photo: hellotravel.com
Bolibong Kingking Festival is celebrated every May 23 in Loboc. Its name is inspired by a phrase that locals use to describe the rhythmic beating of drums and gongs. Along with the music that these instruments make, a dance ritual is performed in front of the image of Loboc’s patron saint, Our Lady of Guadalupe. This festival of cultural dance and music also celebrates Loboc’s traditions and folklore.
Suroy Sa Musikero
Suroy sa Musikero is a Christmas tradition observed in Loboc every December 25 to February 2 of the following year. The festival’s name means parade of musicians, and during this period, Loboc musicians would play trombones, horns, clarinets, trumpets, and percussions in an assigned area. They would entertain the locals and spread the joyous holiday spirit by playing Christmas carols as they travel around town.
Sambat Mascara Y Regatta Festival
Photo: Sambat Mascara Y Regatta Festival Facebook
Every year, on the first Saturday of December, the town of Loay celebrates the Sambat Mascara y Regatta Festival to commemorate St. Francis Xavier. Considered as the main attraction of Loay, this fun-filled celebration features a market fair, musical competitions, street dancing, and the regatta which is held at the mouth of Loboc River.
Agbunan Festival
Photo: pia.gov.ph
The Agbunan Festival is held every June 28 to celebrate and showcase the Philippines’ rich culture and traditions. This vibrant celebration features colorful parades, energetic street dance performances, and lots and lots of traditional food.
Pahinungod Festival
Photo: Ronsoy Photography and Design
During the month of May, the Municipality of Calape holds a 10-day fiesta to honor its patron saint, San Vicente Ferrer, and to celebrate the town’s rich history and spiritual heritage. Festivities include live musical performances, street dancing, as well as exhibits and seminars that showcase Bohol’s history.
Katigbawan Festival
Katigbawan Festival is celebrated in Catigbian to highlight its Foundation Day which falls on June 17. Held every 3rd week of June, this festival started as a 3-day event and has now evolved into a week-long celebration full of exciting revelries such as a street dance parade, Miss Katigbawan pageant, carabao racing, and more.
Hudyaka sa Panglao Festival
Photo: Travel 29 Facebook
Every August 28, the people of Panglao Island celebrates the feast of their patron saint, Saint Augustine. Hudyaka sa Panglao is a huge dance festival that locals look forward to every year. Considered as the main event of the festival is the dance competition among the 10 barangays of the municipality.
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