Your Guide to February Festivals in the Philippines 2024

January festivals may be the month with the most famous cultural events in the country, but the party continues with these February festivals in the Philippines.

If you’re visiting our beloved Pilipinas, or taking advantage of our most-anticipated long weekend holidays, this guide should give you an idea of which events to join.

February Festivals in the Philippines: Luzon

The following events are nearest to Metro Manila.

You could reach them by car or commute by bus in about an hour to 12 hours, depending on the destination you chose.

1. The 49th International Bamboo Organ Philippine Festival

• When is the International Bamboo Organ Festival: February 18 to March 3
• Where is the International Bamboo Organ Festival: Las Piñas

2024 marks the 49th year we celebrate the International Bamboo Organ Festival.

The focus of this event is the unique, bamboo organ made by  Fray Diego de la Cera.

This magnificent-looking organ is now 200 years old. It is one of a kind and is found only in Las Piñas

What does this bamboo organ sound like? 

Every year, the festival hosts a series of cultural events, starting with a mass and followed by an organ recital and concerts by the Manila Baroque ensemble.

Here is the 2024 International Bamboo Organ Festival Schedule of Activities

Note that some events are free to enter, while others require a ticket (get your tickets here).

You may also send a message on their Official Bamboo Organ Festival Facebook page.

2. Guling-Guling Festival (Street Dancing)

• When is the Guling-Guling Festival: February 9
• Where is the Guling-Guling Festival: Paoay, Ilocos Norte

Guling-Guling was believed to have been celebrated by the locals even before the Spaniards came. But the Spanish monks turned it into a full-blown Catholic practice by the 16th century.

Guling-Guling Festival is celebrated in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, the day before the Ash Wednesday or the last day of merrymaking before the Lenten season.

Historically, the four-day festival begins with the “Guling” ritual (translated as “sign” or “mark”), wherein the town’s mayor would bless the people’s foreheads with a white cross using wet rice flour. This ritual supposedly cleanses the people from their sins.

Today, the festival is a true Filipino celebration with singing and dancing in the street. Townsfolk wear their native costumes (a type of Filipiniana kimona) adorned with century-old jewelry.

Like most festivals, food is a centerpiece of Guling-Guling. They’ve been doing boodle fights (with dozens of roasted native pigs) even before boodle fights became a thing in Metro Manila.

3. Panagbenga Festival

• When is the Panagbenga Festival: Entire February
• Where is the Panagbenga Festival: Baguio City

Panagbenga (translated as the “Season of Blooming”) is an annual flower festival and one of the longest February festivals in the Philippines.

It is celebrated during the entire month of February in Baguio, transforming the city into a burst of colors and cultural splendor.

People flock to the month-long Panagbenga Festival and experience Baguio and Cordillera’s rich history, traditions, and values in person.

The festival’s roots trace back to 1996 when the idea of a flower festival was presented by lawyer Damaso E. Bangaoet Jr. The community embraced it warmly, making the Baguio Flower Festival a reality.

In 1997, it evolved into Panagbenga, symbolizing a season for blossoming. The festival showcases diverse activities like floral parades, cultural shows, art contests, and street events, uniting the community in a celebration of Baguio’s identity and spirit.

Panagbenga continues to thrive, capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike, making it a cherished tradition in the City of Pines.

Check the 2024 Panagbenga Festival Schedule of Activities and Events below:

For 2024, there will be a month-long flower exhibit, the stunning flower parade, kite-flying activities, Panagbenga dance competition, and the grand flower float parade, among others.

Make sure to visit Session Road, as it is expected to be in full bloom from February 26 to March 3.

For more information and updated list of events, visit the official Panagbenga Flower Festival website.

4. Taytay Hamaka Festival

• When is the Taytay Hamaka Festival: February 10 to 16
• Where is the Taytay Hamaka Festival: Taytay, Rizal

Hamaka Festival is celebrated every third Sunday of February in Taytay Rizal.

As the Garments and Woodworks capital of the Philippines, the meaning of the word HaMaKa is an abbreviation of three words:

• Ha is for “Hamba” meaning woodwork,
• Ma is for “Makina” or the sewing machine, and
• Ka is for “Kabuhayan” which sums up all the industries in Taytay.

This weeklong celebration includes pageants, concerts singing competition (the Taytay Idol’s 14th Season) and other activities.

On February 16, 2024, the TAYTAY HAMAKA Festival Motorshow and Exhibits begins at 8am and ends around midnight. The stunts, food stalls, merch, motorcade, motorshow and other activities can be found infront of Taytay Municipal Hall.

The Hamaka Festival also showcases the artistry, craftsmanship and various talents of the people of Taytay.

For up-to-date schedule of activities during the Hamaka Festival week, go visit the Smile Taytay Facebook page.

5. Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

• When is the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival: February 16 to 18
• Where is the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival: New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is one of the most popular modern festivals in the Philippines.

Unlike many festivals of the country, the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is neither religious, nor cultural. It doesn’t even showcase the province’s traits or products.

However, people from the city (and even abroad) used to flock to Pampanga to join the 3-day festivity. This year, however, the festival will be held in a new venue — at the New Clark City.

Aside from being able to ride one of these hot air balloons (a ride is super expensive), other activities include skydiving, formation flying, paragliding, and aerobatic displays.

2024 Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival tickets range from 1,200 PHP for senior citizens/PWDs to P1,500 PHP general admissions for a 1-day pass. Two- and three-day passes will cost you 2,700 PHP and 4,050 PHP respectively.

If you’re looking for Hot Air Balloon Festival in Pampanga 2024 tickets, go buy tickets early – they shoot up in prices when the event gets nearer.

February Festivals in the Philippines: Visayas

There are dozens of festivals in the Philippines celebrated during love month in the Visayas. The following festivals are just the more popular ones:

6. Kali-Kalihan Harvest

• When is the Kali-Kalihan Harvest Festival: Usually from the last day of January or the first day of February, culminating in Februay 9
• Where is the Kali-Kalihan Harvest Festival: Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental

First held in 1991, the Kali-Kalihan Festival is an event to celebrate the town’s founding anniversary.

The festival’s name, “kali-kalihan,” comes from the ancient martial art called kali (or arnis). The main event involves 7 barangays competing in costume during the Street Dancing Parade. Participants reenact the ancient kali movements, gestures, and fighting stances.

For 2024, the Kali-Kalihan Festival activities run from February 3 to 9.

There will also be a farmers’ day, food festival, trade fair, beauty pageants, cultural competitions, street dance competition, concerts, free pet clinics, and more.

Check the Municipality of Don Salvador Benedicto Facebook for complete Kali-Kalihan Harvest Festival 2024 schedule of activities.

7. Utanon Festival

• When is the Utanon Festival: February 10
• Where is the Utanon Festival: Cebu

Utanon Festival (or the Dalaguete Fiesta) celebrates the food, agriculture and culture of Dalaguete – a southern town in Cebu.

This festival was founded by Mayor Andrade H. Alcantara as a thanksgiving event for the town’s abundant harvest of agricultural produce.

In Cebuano language, “utanon” means vegetables, so don’t be shocked that the annual festival showcases the town’s high value crops, fruits, and veggies during parades, floats, dance competitions, pageants, and other activities.

Here is the 2024 Utanon Festival schedule of activities:

8. Dinagyaw sa Tablas (originally called “Pabalhas sa Tablas”)

• When is the Pabalhas sa Tablas Festival: February 6 to 11
• Where is the Pabalhas sa Tablas Festival: Candoni, Negros Occidental

Pabalhas sa Tablas Festival recalls the bayanihan efforts of Santiago “Tagoy” Diego and other settlers (composed of Isabeleños, Hinigaranons, and Ilonggos) in clearing the Tabla tree forest.

Once the area was cleared, the people built a road to the upland community, and planted crops and veggies for their food and essentials.

This cleanup occurred in 1935 at Tablas or “Tabla Valley,” the former name of mountain valley area. This is now known as the Municipality of Candoni.

For 2024, Dinagyaw sa Tablas includes a sports fest (basketball/volleyball), religious activities, float parades, concerts, battle of the bands, pageants, school competitions, and other community events.

The 2024 Dinagyaw sa Tablas even has a DJ night and mobile legends tournament.

Of course, there will be a mass and street dancing competition.

For more updates about the 11th Dinagyaw activities, follow the official Facebook of the Municipal Government of Candoni.

February Festivals in the Philippines: Mindanao

9. Suroy sa Surigao

• When is the Suroy sa Surigao Festival: February 1 to 28
• Where is the Suroy sa Surigao Festival: Surigao City

Unlike other February festivals in the Philippines I featured so far, Suroy sa Surigao is a festival developed specifically to promote tourism.

Suroy sa Surigao, which translates to “Tour around Surigao,” is an annual festival initiated by the City Tourism Office.

It occurs throughout the month with participating groups promote, join and explore Surigao’s rich heritage, culture and stunning spots.

Activities such as island-hopping, cave exploration, canoeing to the lush mangrove areas, cashing waterfalls through the majestic Tinuy-an Falls and other interesting sites.

10. Kalilangan Festival

• When is the Kalilangan Festival: February 20 to 27
• Where is the Kalilangan Festival: General Santos City, South Cotobato

Kalilangan Festival was named after the Maguindanaoan word “kalilang,” which means “to remember” or “to celebrate.” As such, the festival brings the spirit of gathering, merry-making, and celebration alive every year. 

Kalilangan Festival was first held in 1989. Since then, it has become one of the largest events in the city.

Organized by Mindanao State University and General Santos City, Kalilang Festival also occurs during the the founding anniversary of General Santos City.

Christians, Muslims, and the indigenous people (called Lumads) all come together to celebrate Kalilang and the city’s heritage.

This year, the week-long Kalilangan Festival 2024 will include the agricultural fair, parade (Parada ng Lahi), traditional games,  food festival, cultural and arts activities, sports competitions, and the main anniversary program that take place on February 27.

Kadsayagan (the street dance competition) is the main event. It starts at the historical Lion’s Beach to the Oval Plaza where the final showdown is held. Participants, each group representing their barangays, compete with each other not only in dance, but also their cultural show-stopping costumes.

Check the LGU GenSan Facebook page for updated 2024 Kalilangan schedule of activities.

National Arts Month

• When is the National Arts Month celebrated in the Philippines: Entire February
• Where is the National Arts Month celebrated in the Philippines: Nationwide

February is National Arts Month in the Philippines. 

Throughout the month, events all over the country focuses in showcasing the cultural heritage and arts of the Philippines and its artists.

• Exhibitions and Art Shows: Galleries nationwide display paintings, sculptures, and installations, providing a stage for artists.
• Performing Arts Festivals: Dance, theater, music, and film festivals celebrate diverse artistic expressions.
• Workshops and Seminars: Educational initiatives foster skill development and knowledge-sharing among artists.
• Cultural and Heritage Tours: Tours promote awareness of the Philippines’ cultural treasures, engaging the public with artistic legacy.
• Street Art and Public Installations: Festivals and installations transform public spaces, making art accessible to all.
• Literary Events: Book launches, poetry readings, and discussions celebrate Filipino writers and their literary contributions.
• Film Screenings and Festivals: National Arts Month showcases classic and contemporary Filipino films, promoting cinematic achievements.
• Community Art Projects: Collaborative projects involve local communities, focusing on social issues and fostering shared creativity.
• Artisan Markets: Markets feature handmade crafts, showcasing local artisans and allowing direct sales to the public.
• Public Art Initiatives: Mural painting and street art competitions beautify public spaces, involving local artists.

National Arts Month unites Filipinos, fostering appreciation for diverse artistic expressions that enrich the cultural tapestry of the Philippines.

Check museums, convention centers, art galleries, movie theaters, schools, and even malls for arts, crafts and cultural events.

A simple search using the term “national arts month Philippines” on Facebook gives you numerous activities to check out. Find one near you today!

Chinese New Year in the Philippines

• When is the Chinese New Year celebrated in the Philippines: February 9
• Where is the Chinese New Year celebrated in the Philippines: Nationwide (QC & Manila in Luzon, Cebu/Iloilo in Visayas, and Davao City in Mindanao)

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is widely celebrated in the Philippines.

While Chinese New Year is celebrated nationwide, you can expect areas with a significant Chinese-Filipino community to have a more lively, and spectacularly-organized festivities during this time. Some of these key locations include:

Chinese New Year in Manila (Binondo and Quezon City)

Binondo, located in Manila, is the oldest Chinatown in the world.

Chinese New Year celebrations in Binondo Manila are grand and festive, featuring dragon and lion dances, street performances, traditional Chinese rituals, and a lively atmosphere.

You can also see significant Chinese New Year celebrations in Quezon City (QC). After all, QC is one of the largest and most populous cities in Metro Manila. Various events, including street fairs and cultural shows, contribute to the festive atmosphere.

Chinese New Year in Luzon (Baguio City)

The Chinese community in Baguio organize a ton of activities, including the annual parade and fireworks along the city’s major thoroughfares.

Chinese New Year in Visayas (Cebu and Iloilo)

Cebu City also has a vibrant Chinese New Year celebration.

Festivities include a grand parade, cultural performances, and various events that showcase the rich traditions of the Chinese-Filipino community.

Iloilo, in the Western Visayas, is another area where Chinese New Year is celebrated with enthusiasm.

Festivities include cultural performances, parades, and various activities that bring together both the Chinese and local communities.

Chinese New Year in Mindanao (Davao)

If you’re in Mindanao during Chinese New Year, you might want to go on a day-trip to Davao City.

Davao city celebrates Chinese New Year with dragon and lion dances, cultural performances, and a street festival.

Which February Festivals in the Philippines Are You Excited to Join?

I’ve been dying to go back to Baguio and experience Panagbenga in person, but haven’t been able to do so.

How about you? Which of the February celebrations in the Philippines above sound interesting to you?

Of course, this isn’t a complete list.

I just showcased the bigger February festivals in the Philippines that I think are must-experience events, especially if you’re after a culturally rich trip.

Even smaller provinces have one-day festivals lined up this year.

As a romantic people, Filipinos also make a big deal about Valentine’s Day. Some cities even schedule their festivals exactly on hearts’ day.