From north to south, Philippine Festivals in August are where the real party happens this rainy season.
Introduction: Why Philippine Festivals in August Are Worth the Trip
While many travelers avoid the Philippines during the rainy season, those in the know are heading straight into the heart of the action. That’s because Philippine Festivals in August are among the most colorful, energetic, and culturally rich events of the year. Instead of grey skies and quiet streets, you’ll find towns alive with beating drums, dazzling costumes, flower-covered floats, and centuries-old traditions passed down with pride.
Across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, each region celebrates its identity through dance, food, faith, and folklore. Whether it’s the vibrant floral parade of Kadayawan in Davao, the mythical storytelling of Ibalong in Albay, or the bee-inspired street dancing of Buyogan in Leyte, Philippine Festivals in August offer front-row seats to living history—right on the streets.
So if you’re on the fence about traveling this “wet” season, here’s your sign: go. Don’t just witness the culture—join it. With dozens of fiestas happening nationwide, Philippine Festivals in August are your passport to the most unforgettable, immersive experiences the country has to offer.
Philippine Festivals in August 2025
Arranged by date with travel tips for every major celebration.
August 1–7: Pangapog Festival
Samal Island, Davao del Norte
This indigenous thanksgiving ritual kicks off August by honoring the Sama tribe’s bond with the sea. Expect traditional boat races, native chants, cultural dances, and ritual offerings that express gratitude for a bountiful harvest and peaceful seas.
Travel Tips:
- Fly to Davao City and take a 15-minute ferry to Samal.
- Stay at beachfront resorts for the full cultural-and-nature experience.
- Visit Hagimit Falls and Monfort Bat Sanctuary while you’re on the island.
August 1–8: Kadagatan Festival
Mercedes, Camarines Norte
A coastal town celebration that centers on the town’s lifeblood—the sea. Locals organize fluvial parades, dance performances, and seafood cook-offs to thank the ocean for its continued generosity.
Travel Tips:
- Travel via Naga or Daet; buses run daily from Metro Manila.
- Enjoy nearby island-hopping trips in Siete Pecados or Calaguas.
- Bring cash and mosquito repellent—essentials for rural celebrations.
August 5–15: Guinobatan Longganisa Festival
Guinobatan, Albay
This festival is as delicious as it sounds. It celebrates the town’s famous garlicky sausage—Guinobatan longganisa—through culinary contests, trade fairs, parades, and cultural performances.
Travel Tips:
- Stay in Legazpi and take a 30-minute ride to Guinobatan.
- Sample longganisa varieties and bring home vacuum-sealed packs.
- Don’t miss the sunset view of Mayon Volcano from Ligñon Hill.
August 6–11: FISHtival
Mercedes, Camarines Norte
As a sub-festival of Kadagatan, FISHtival puts the spotlight on sustainable fishing. It includes educational exhibits, fishing games, and eco-tourism tours to promote marine preservation.
Travel Tips:
- Best time to visit Mercedes is mid-week to avoid weekend crowds.
- Ideal for travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path coastal towns.
- Eat local—grilled blue marlin and kinunot are must-tries.
August 8–17: Kadayawan Festival
Davao City
A grand thanksgiving celebration for nature’s bounty and indigenous cultures. Major events include Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan (street dancing), Pamulak (floral floats), tribal games, and cultural showcases from Davao’s 11 ethnic groups.
Travel Tips:
- Book flights and hotels at least 2 months in advance.
- Expect big crowds during the main parade weekend (Aug 15–17).
- Try durian, mangosteen, and pomelo—peak harvest season!
August 12–30: Ibalong Festival
Legazpi City, Albay
This festival is based on the legendary epic of three heroes who defended Bicol from mythical monsters. It includes costumed street plays, sports events, bike marathons, and colorful parades.
Travel Tips:
- Fly directly to Legazpi or ride a scenic bus/train from Manila.
- Best parade dates typically fall in the last 2 weeks of August.
- Mayon ATV tours are a thrilling addition to your trip.
August 14: Pangasinan Bamboo Festival
Calasiao & Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan
Celebrating the versatility and sustainability of bamboo, this one-day festival includes product exhibits, workshops, parades, and bamboo planting activities.
Travel Tips:
- Bus from Manila to Dagupan takes around 5 hours.
- Pair your trip with a visit to Hundred Islands in nearby Alaminos.
- Support locals by buying bamboo crafts and furniture.
August 15: Lubi-Lubi Festival
Calubian, Leyte
Lubi-Lubi pays tribute to the coconut—locally called lubi—which plays a vital role in the community’s livelihood. Events include street dances, coconut cooking contests, and themed parades.
Travel Tips:
- Ride a van from Tacloban City to Calubian (approx. 3 hours).
- Be prepared for humid weather; wear light clothing and a hat.
- Don’t leave without trying local coconut-based delicacies.
August 20 (Est.): Bankaton Festival
Lavezares, Northern Samar
This is a thrilling river boat race featuring colorfully decorated motorized bancas. Locals cheer from the banks while food stalls and live bands complete the fiesta atmosphere.
Travel Tips:
- Travel from Catarman or Calbayog City via local transport.
- Great for travelers seeking adventure in off-grid locations.
- Bring waterproof gear—part of the fun is getting splashed!
August 28: Higalaay Festival
📍 Cagayan de Oro City
Cagayan de Oro’s grandest celebration features a civic-military parade, float competition, fluvial procession, and culinary fairs. It culminates in a dazzling fireworks display on the Feast of St. Augustine.
Travel Tips:
- Fly to Laguindingan Airport, then take a shuttle to downtown CDO.
- Book accommodations near Divisoria Plaza for easy access to events.
- Sample pastel bread, sinuglaw, and sikwate at the food bazaar.
August 28 (Est.): Buyogan Festival
Abuyog, Leyte
Buzzing with energy, this festival mimics the movement and life of bees through choreographed street dancing. The performers wear elaborate bee-themed costumes and yellow-black motifs.
Travel Tips:
- Ride a van from Tacloban to Abuyog (approx. 2 hours).
- Best to arrive early in the morning for a good spot on parade day.
- Bring extra batteries—this one’s Instagram gold!
August 1–15: Pasaka Festival
Tanauan, Leyte
A religious-cultural event honoring the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Locals organize daily dance rituals, Marian processions, and nightly cultural programs at the town plaza.
Travel Tips:
- Stay in Tacloban and do day trips to Tanauan.
- Combine with a visit to the San Juanico Bridge or Palo Cathedral.
- Dress modestly if attending the religious processions.
August 11: Samar Day (Kaadlawan Han Samar)
Catbalogan City, Samar
A foundation day celebration filled with regional pride, beauty contests, cultural exhibits, and street parties. It’s a chance to see how Waray heritage lives on.
Travel Tips:
- Travel to Catbalogan by land or sea from Tacloban or Calbayog.
- Stay for at least 2 days to explore the caves and beaches nearby.
- Great time to enjoy local favorites like tamales and kinilaw.
Summary Table: Philippine Festivals in August Quick Travel Guide
| Festival | Date | Region | Access | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pangapog | Aug 1–7 | Samal, Davao Norte | Fly to Davao + ferry | Stay beachside |
| Kadagatan | Aug 1–8 | Camarines Norte | Bus from Naga | Book rural lodge |
| Guinobatan Longganisa | Aug 5–15 | Albay | Legazpi City | Explore Mayon area |
| FISHtival | Aug 6–11 | Mercedes | Via Naga | Ideal for seafood fans |
| Kadayawan | Aug 8–17 | Davao City | Direct flight | Book months ahead |
| Ibalong | Aug 12–30 | Legazpi | Flight or bus/train | Mayon ATV tours! |
| Bamboo Festival | Aug 14 | Pangasinan | Bus from Manila | Pair with Hundred Islands |
| Lubi-Lubi | Aug 15 | Leyte | Van from Tacloban | Try coconut sweets |
| Bankaton | Aug 20 | Samar | Local transport | Waterproof essentials |
| Higalaay | Aug 1–28 | CDO | Fly to Laguindingan | Stay near Divisoria |
| Buyogan | Aug 28 | Leyte | Van from Tacloban | Bring camera gear |
| Pasaka | Aug 1–15 | Tanauan | Day trip from Tacloban | Modest dress for processions |
| Samar Day | Aug 11 | Catbalogan | Bus/van from Tacloban | Explore nature spots |
Philippine Festivals in August Final Reminders:
- Bring both sunblock and rain gear—August is hot, humid, and wet.
- Pack cash—many provincial areas still operate without digital payments.
- Respect local traditions, especially during religious processions.
- If you can, combine festivals in nearby regions for a richer experience.
Conclusion: Why August Is the Month to Celebrate
The Philippine Festivals in August are more than just colorful parades and folk dances—they are living expressions of gratitude, heritage, and unity. Whether you’re witnessing the vibrant floral floats of Kadayawan in Davao or the legendary street dances of Ibalong in Albay, every event tells a unique story rooted in Filipino pride.
Traveling across the archipelago during this time gives you the rare chance to experience how culture thrives even amid monsoon rains. From coastal towns to mountain cities, the Philippine Festivals in August will immerse you in an unforgettable journey filled with food, music, devotion, and joy. So pack your bags, bring your spirit of adventure, and join the celebration where history and tradition come alive.