A Festival That Is Unique!

 

It is important to protect our unique culture and rich heritage. The Kannawidan Ylocos Festival was established as an annual event with the goal of raising awareness about the preservation of the province's rich cultural heritage, practices, and traditions. Ilocos Sur's province administration created a festival to celebrate these customs and cultures and draw both domestic and international visitors. It is known as the Kannawidan Ylocos Festival and celebrates the anniversary of Ilocos Sur becoming a province.

Every person living in the province understands the importance of this festival because it commemorates the establishment of Ilocos Sur as a province by royal decree on February 2, 1818. The Philippine Historical Committee refers to Vigan in particular as the "Heart of Ilocandia" in reference to Ilocos Sur. The province has a very rich cultural history. Traditions are what Kannawidan means, and this province got to show off everything she has. Numerous events were planned from January 31 to February 6, 2011 to celebrate. The Ilocos Sur cultural communities put on a tribal performance, which was amazing. Along with wearing their traditional attire, they showcased their talents. The Partuat ken Patanor Trade Fair displayed regional goods like s longanisa, bagnet, garlic, bibingka, tinubong and many other foods including handicrafts.

The event was unique because it combined the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines with the historic Spanish architecture of Vigan City. The audience was equally as involved in the performance as they cheered and danced with the artists. It was incredible to observe how the city seemed to come to life during this event. If you have ever visited the Philippines, I heartily recommend checking it out. The intensity, dancing, and music all left a memorable impression. To put it simply, I really wish that this festival would continue since I know that many others would love to have experiences like this.