Philippine Festivals in September 2023

In the Philippines, the Christmas season officially begins in September. Yes, it’s really early, but it’s true. The length of Christmas in the Philippines may be the longest in the entire world. September, known as the first “ber” month because of the last sound in its name, is often seen as the beginning of a fruitful and joyful season for Filipinos. 

Filipinos start their shopping for presents, decorations, and firecrackers at this early hour. Additionally, mall-wide deals start to occur more frequently, and it comes as no surprise when you hear a joyful “Merry Christmas” now and then.

Numerous more events and celebrations are taking place all throughout the Philippines as the streets start to bloom with glittering lights, fake snowmen, and Santa Claus statues. In the nation, this month is no different from any other in that there is fascinating activity everywhere. 

During the month, Baguio City, General Santos City, Siquijor, and Bislig City celebrate their charter days, and at least 10 additional events are anticipated. There are numerous significant sporting events taking place across the nation.

The southwest monsoon, also known as habagat, which causes tropical storms and high winds, continues to make September in the Philippines rainy. Expect to have fewer sunny days even though storms do not always occur. 

This implies that rain showers could prevent you from enjoying the beach even in Visayas and Mindanao. Despite the weather, September is still an amazing time to visit the Philippines. Just remember to pack an umbrella and take your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C.

Please read: TOP HOTSPRINGS NEAR MANILA 2023

Here are some of what’s in store for everyone in the month of September:

Charter Day in Baguio

September 1

This year, the City of Baguio, which is known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, marks the 112th anniversary of its creation. Many people know the densely populated city in the Cordilleras as a top travel and holiday destination in the nation. The celebration this year will be informal and online.

Sarakiki Festival

City of Calbayog in Western Samar

September 1-8

Samar residents can be seen dancing around the city’s main streets while sporting rooster costumes.

Hin-ay Festival 

Sorsogon, Irosin

September 1-29

The semi-religious event emphasizes the triumph of good over evil. The festival includes marketplaces, cultural performances, and street dance that portrays the triumph of the archangel over the oppressed.

Bicol Food Festival

Naga City

September 1-30

Spicy food is popular in the Bicol region. The perfect time to test your tolerance for spice through authentic Bicolano cuisine is during the Bicol Food Festival. Get your fill of pinangat, laing, cocido, pecadillo, inolokan, Bicol Express, and so much more!

Busig-on Festival

Labo, Camarines Sur

September 7-9

The Bicolano epic Busig-on serves as the basis for this celebration. It highlights local virtues and heroism through talent exhibitions in prominent locations across Labo.

World Heritage Cities Solidarity Day

Vigan City

8 September

History lovers will undoubtedly like the events that take place on World Heritage Cities Solidarity Day. Vigan, the most intact history town in the Philippines, organizes the yearly festival among other heritage-rich locations around the globe. Repazzo de Vigan, Historia Oral, Putajes de Ayer, and Fotografias de Recuerdos are some of the highlights of this unique day. Following the procession, there is an oral history presentation of the city’s history and culture by its oldest citizens, known as Historia Oral, in which participants portray town life from the Spanish Era through World War II. 

At the Putajes de Ayer food festival, you may sample some of Vigan’s best dishes. Fotografias de Recuerdos is an exhibition of works of art and images that highlight the historic city.

Festival of Translation and Peafrancia

Naga City

September 13 

Our Lady of Peafrancia is regarded as a patron saint by the Bicolanos. Male worshipers carry the picture of INA from the Basilica to the Naga Cathedral during the translation. The celebration also kicks off a nine-day novena for the town’s patron in preparation for the feast on September 21. A fluvial parade along the Naga River takes place on the feast day.

Dalit Festival

Tangub City

September 21

Dalit is a traditional celebration that focuses on giving thanks for a plentiful harvest. Tangub’s city residents celebrate their harvest by participating in beauty pageants, fashion shows, and street dance.

Megayon Festival

Pagadian City

September 27-30

The Megayon Festival is the ideal opportunity to discover Zamboanga del Sur at its finest. In addition to fantastic Chavacano cuisine, the provincial government hosts commerce and travel expos, cultural performances, and competitions.

Siargao National Surfing Cup

Cloud 9, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

September 15-18

With waves that can easily match with those of Australia, Indonesia, and Hawaii, the island of Siargao is referred to as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. For the National Surfing Cup in September, Siargao experiences a surge in fans and surfers alike. 

Surfers from the area compete against one another, with the victors going on to represent the nation in the forthcoming International Surfing Cup. There are many beach parties and other events focused on the bohemian beach feel Siargao is famous for, so surfing is not the sole highlight of this festival.

Araw Ng Siguijor

Siquijor

September 17-22

A typical Filipino grows up believing that Siquijor is inhabited by witches and sorcerers who only curse individuals who hurt them since it is an island shrouded in mystery and terrifying tales. Wrong. Siquijor is a lovely province with historic buildings, gorgeous beaches, and breathtaking natural features. 

A week-long celebration culminating on the Araw ng Siquijor (Day of Siquijor) marks the province’s celebration of its charter. The celebrations will showcase the province’s numerous attractions, cultural activities, historical treasures, and culinary delights.

Please read: THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT HUNDRED ISLANDS PARK

Conclusion

You still have time to catch up with other upcoming festivals this September since September has already begun. For your upcoming travels at these upcoming festivals, don’t forget to use our travel insurance products.