Festivals & events
Festivals and events that shape a trip — celebrations, closures, peak prices and when to book ahead.
Sinulog & Ati-Atihan
Celebration
Jan
Vibrant January street festivals in Cebu and Kalibo, among the country's biggest. Third week of January.
Panagbenga Flower Festival
Celebration
Feb
Baguio's month-long flower festival with grand float parades. Usually February.
Holy Week
Closures
Mar–Apr · approximate dates
The country largely shuts from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday; transport booked out. Dates late Mar–Apr.
Kadayawan Festival
Celebration
Aug
Davao's thanksgiving harvest festival celebrating fruit, flowers and indigenous culture. Usually August.
MassKara Festival
Celebration
Oct
Bacolod's 'City of Smiles' festival of smiling masks and street dance. Usually October.
Christmas Season
High prices
Dec
The Philippines keeps the world's longest Christmas season; December brings peak demand and busy transport.
