Tradition & Festival
Tradition embodies the timeless customs, beliefs, and practices passed down through generations, serving as a cultural compass guiding societal rituals and values. It weaves the fabric of identity, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity within communities. Festivals, vibrant expressions of tradition, are celebratory manifestations that honor heritage, mark significant occasions, and unify people through shared experiences of joy, reflection, and camaraderie.
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Buhayani Festival
The Buhayani Festival in Calamba, Laguna, isn't just about fun parades and shows. It's a special event that helps
people remember the history of the Philippines.
A long time ago, before the Philippines was taken over by other countries, the folks in Calamba
celebrated their local heroes with big ceremonies. Even when the Spanish ruled the Philippines, they kept up
these traditions, but they also started honoring bigger national heroes like José Rizal and Andres Bonifacio.
After the Americans took over and the Philippines became independent, the festival changed again. It became more about
bringing people together, even if they were different, and it helped keep old traditions alive.
Today, the Buhayani Festival is all about celebrating the Philippines' past. It remembers the old ceremonies,
the fight against being taken over, and the rise of important heroes. It's not just about having fun; it's a way
to honor the brave people who fought for freedom. The festival started long ago in Calamba and continues to remind
people of their country's journey.
Back in the beginning, the festival started on June 12, which is the Philippines' Independence Day,
and ended on June 19. But in 2023, it was celebrated from June 2 to June 25. That same year, they also started
giving out the Calambagong Bayani Awards to recognize people who have done amazing things in different areas.
Feast of Patron Saint Isidore/San Isidro Labrador
Religious activities are an integral part of Calamba's festivals and events, including the
Feast of Patron Saint Isidore, also known as San Isidro Labrador, the city's patron saint.
This celebration gathers the Catholic community of Calamba in fervent devotion to Saint Isidore,
the patron saint of farmers and laborers, marked by religious processions, novena masses, and a grand fiesta
at the Calamba Cathedral. These activities foster a strong sense of community and offer space for spiritual
reflection and renewal.
This religious event, celebrated every 15th of May, honors Patron Saint Isidore for his blessings
of abundant harvests upon the people of Calamba. Concurrently, schools hold homecoming activities,
welcoming visitors from distant places back home to reconnect with family and friends. Additionally,
the eagerly anticipated coronation for Ms. Calamba Tourism engages the youth in promoting the city's tourist
attractions to non-locals, adding vibrancy to the festivities.