Kannawidan Ylocos Festival

 

   

 The Ilocos Sur province's founding is remembered at the Kannawidan Ylocos festival. The festivities begin the last week of January and go through the first week of February. It is customary for a mass to be held at the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral during the festival's official opening. The patron saints of the 40 parishes and statues of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary are then carried in procession around Vigan City. Provincial DepEd officials frequently participate in the mass and parade. This occasion demonstrates the Ilocanos' fervent religiosity.

 

 Major activities occur in Vigan, the capital of the province. It was first launched within the term of Deogracias Victor Savellano in 2008. It was started to promote awareness and preservation of the local culture, tradition, heritage, and customs. It was also an opportunity to showcase local products, artistry, and craftsmanship. Moreover, it was also created to boost the local tourism industry. It is the Ilocanos’ way of giving thanks to the Almighty not only for the bountiful blessings but also for the rich heritage of the province, including the close family ties among the Ilocanos.

 

  

 The celebration gives Ilocano kids more focus. It's because the province's younger generations do not understand Ilocano culture. But current dances are covered more in depth. Children from the Ilocos can learn to appreciate their rich culture and traditions through projects like this. This Festival is held for that reason. The students from Ilocos Sur also participate in a traditional ritual on the festival's first day.

  This year, a variety of competitions that highlight the students' talent and expertise include choir, traditional and folk dances, as well as tribal rituals. Younger generations are inspired by the Kannawidan Ylocos Festival to learn the traditional music and dances of Ilocos Sur.