More than the beauty of the Philippines, one main reason why tourists flock to the county is because of the vibrant festivals celebrated throughout the year. This entails a complete sensory experience — both for local and foreign tourists — since communities encourage visitors to imbibe domestic culture and tradition at every events.

For January alone, three huge festivals showcase why it is truly “more fun in the Philippines,” a country which brings together cultural immersion and revelry together like no other.

Iloilo’s Dinagyang Festival

Probably the country’s most colorful celebration is Iloilo’s Dinagyang Festival held every fourth Sunday of January. The celebration symbolizes the love of people and thanksgiving to Señor Sto. Niño and the locals’ preservation of Iloilo’s rich heritage, culture, devotion, and tradition.

The festivity includes tribal dance competitions, street parties and fireworks display. Everyone can enjoy the drum beats and active presentations of the performers. Interestingly, street dance routines are made on designated stages for all to witness and participate.

Best hotels to stay: Adhara Eco Boutique Resort, Goldberry Lite Hotel Iloilo, Top Star Hotel Iloilo, and Solina Beach and Nature Resort.

Cebu’s Sinulog Festival

Held every third Sunday of January, the Sinulog Festival is a celebration in honor of Sto, Niño, also known as the Child Jesus, who is the patron saint of Cebu Province.

People from nearby provinces and within the country usually fly to Cebu to partake in this highly anticipated huge event. Famous for the province’s colorful displays, Sinulog participants are clothed with flamboyant costumes while they dance to the beat of drums, trumpets and native gongs. This event is a fête of the Filipino people’s pagan past and acceptance of Christianity.

Best hotels to stay: EON Centennial Soho Hotel, Palm Grass Hotel, Arterra Hotel and Resort, La Mirada Hotel, Voda Krsana each Resort, Dynasty Tourist Inn, Cebu Hotel Plus and Oftana Suites Main.

Aklan’s Ati-Atihan Festival

Said to be the mother of all Philippine festivals, Ati-Atihan is a cultural and religious festival which is also celebrated in honor of Sto. Niño every third Sunday of January in Aklan.

Similar to Sinulog, the Ati-Atihan Festival is also known to have dynamic and colorful street parades and performances. Participants wear ancient warrior regalia and have their arms and faces painted in black to signify the Ati local residents’ gratefulness for the help the Malay Datus extended to them when they faced challenges in the early years. Indeed, Ati-Atihan festival is also a celebration of unity between two different nations.

Best hotels to stay: Savoy Hotel Boracay, Hampstead Boutique Hotel, Lime Hotel Boracay, JJ Resort and Spa, The Orchids Resort, 8Colors Beach House, Bora Sky Hotel, The Rose Pike @ Boracay, Niu Ohana East Bay Apartments and La Banca at Boracay.

With information courtesy of Travel Book Philippines, Inc.