The Wao Festival: A Celebration of Culture and Tradition

The Wao Festival: A Celebration of Culture and Tradition

The Wao Festival is an annual cultural festival held in the town of Wao, Lanao del Sur, Philippines. The festival is held in honor of the patron saint of the town, Saint Bartholomew, and is a celebration of the town’s rich cultural heritage.

The festival is typically held in the month of August and features a variety of events, including traditional dances, music, and food. The festival also includes a religious procession and a fluvial parade.

Traditional Dances

One of the highlights of the Wao Festival is the traditional dances. These dances are performed by local dance troupes and showcase the town’s rich cultural heritage. Some of the most popular dances performed during the festival include the Maranao Singkil, the Maguindanao Pamamaskong, and the Tausug Pangalay.

Traditional Music

The Wao Festival also features a variety of traditional music. This music is performed by local musicians and singers and includes a variety of genres, such as kulintang, gabbang, and kudyapi.

Traditional Food

The Wao Festival is also a time to enjoy traditional Filipino food. Some of the most popular dishes served during the festival include pinakbet, kare-kare, and adobo.

Religious Procession

The Wao Festival includes a religious procession in honor of Saint Bartholomew. The procession is led by the town’s priest and is followed by local residents and visitors. The procession ends at the town church, where a mass is held.

Fluvial Parade

The Wao Festival also includes a fluvial parade. The parade is held on the Agus River and features a variety of boats decorated with colorful lights and flowers. The parade is a highlight of the festival and is a popular attraction for both local residents and visitors.

The Wao Festival is a celebration of the town’s rich cultural heritage. The festival is a time to enjoy traditional dances, music, and food, and to participate in religious and cultural activities. The festival is a must-see for anyone interested in Filipino culture and tradition.