Festivals In Surigao Del Sur: a glimpse of the unique traditions
Festivals in Surigao del Sur are region rich in cultural diversity and natural beauty. Among its many treasures is the vibrant and enchanting Ka’liga Tu Sur Festival which encapsulates the spirit and traditions of the local communities.
In this coastal paradise, where the rhythms of daily life are often influenced by the ebb and flow of the Pacific Ocean, festivals hold a special place in the hearts of its people. These celebrations are a tapestry of history, culture, and spirituality, weaving a story passed down through generations.
List of festivals in Surigao del Sur in every Municipalities:
Ka’liga Tu Sur Festival
- Date: 3rd week of June (usually 19)
- Location: Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: Introducing a groundbreaking festival concept that brings together the rich tapestry of Festivals in Surigao del Sur: the Araw ng Surigao. This innovative event captures the essence of Surigao del Sur’s spirit, celebrating life, abundance, and the thriving prosperity of its people. Imagine a grand spectacle where the unique traditions and vibrant cultures of Surigao del Sur’s various festivals converge into a mesmerizing showcase. This extraordinary celebration unites communities and highlights the region’s rich heritage. The Araw ng Surigao is a testament to the unity and diversity of the province. It embodies the harmony of its people and their shared aspirations for a brighter future. This festival in Surigao del Sur serves as a symbol of unwavering spirit, exuberantly rejoicing in the bounties of life and the prosperity that binds its communities together.
Gakit Festival
- Date: 3rd week of November (usually 19-20)
- Location: Bayabas, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: One of the celebrations of the Gakit Festival is through “gakit” which means Raft. The celebration takes place at the seaside where every local and tourist alike gathers. It also celebrates the Araw ng Bayabas in which every barangay showcases its harvest and its products.
Kaliguan Festival
- Date: 4th week of June (usually 21-25)
- Location: Cagwait, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: Kaliguan Festival is an annual celebration in honor of St. John the Baptist every 4th week of June.
Sirong Festival
- Date: 2nd week of August (usually 13-14)
- Location: Cantilan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: Originating as a religious movement in Cantilan, Sirong emerged as an Act of Piety. Over time, it evolved into a captivating spectacle, blending entertainment with a solemn observance by the faithful during Cantilan’s fiesta, honoring God through the Patron Saint. The term “Sirong” embodies action, signifying a fencing of one’s experiences to fortify communication, survival, and the pursuit of recognition and status.
Makong Kaumahan Festival
- Date: 2nd week of November (usually 16-17)
- Location: Carmen, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: Is a celebration of the bounty harvest of farmers.
Pahinungod Festival
- Date: 3rd week of July (usually 16)
- Location: Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: The Pahinungod Festival is a vibrant and joyous Mardi Gras-style celebration that takes place in the charming streets of Carrascal. This lively event is a celebration of their beloved Patroness, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, and serves as a dynamic platform to showcase and celebrate the rich tapestry of cultural diversity that Carrascal boasts.
Kalogatan Festival
- Date: 3rd week of November (usually 16-17)
- Location: Cortes, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: Is a celebration of Araw ng Cortes and Kalogatan Festival. The main highlight is the Inter-Barangay Street Dancing and Showdown Competition. It’s a free interpretation of a rural dancing contest anchored on the history and culture of the Municipality of Cortes.
Lanuza International Surfing Festival
- Date: 2nd week of November (usually 12)
- Location: Lanuza, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: The Lanuza Surfing Festival is an annual event that takes place in November, attracting surfers from around the world, as well as those from different parts of the country and the local community. This festival showcases incredible performances on various types of boards, including surfboards, longboards, and skimboards.
Inatu Festival
- Date: 3rd week of October (usually 15-17)
- Location: Lianga, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: The Inatu festival is also a celebration of Araw ng Lianga. Participants in these festivals are from different schools within Lianga. During this event, participants showcase a play that narrates the captivating tale of an inter-racial marriage.
Magdadaro Festival
- Date: 2nd week of May (usually 12)
- Location: Madrid, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: The Magdadaro Festival highlight is Sumyajaw sa Kadayanan and Grand Showdown. The Magdadaro Festival is a vibrant celebration that beautifully captures the essence of the Madridanon way of life. This lively event unfolds through mesmerizing dances of praise, graceful movements, elaborate costumes, and deeply rooted beliefs that hold special significance for the town’s people, particularly in the realm of farming. The term “Magdadaro” finds its origin in the Visayan language and refers to a “plowman,” while “Daru” represents the essential tool of farming, the farmer’s trusted plow. This festival is a heartfelt tribute to the hardworking farmers who toil in the fields, utilizing the plow as a symbol of their dedication and perseverance.
Abaca Festival
- Date: 1st week of August (usually 6)
- Location: Marihatag, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: It is a celebration to showcase its fiber industry and its products. Also, Marihatag celebrates its fiesta during this day.
Kalumonan Festival
- Date: 4th week of August (usually 22-28)
- Location: San Agustin, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: A celebration depicting the local culture, beliefs, and traditions, thanksgiving of graces showered to the people of San Agustin.
Humayanon Festival
- Date: 2nd week of June (usually 13-16)
- Location: San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: San Miguel, located in Surigao del Sur, Philippines, derives its name from the local term “Humay,” which means a grain of rice. The town’s name is a testament to its rich agricultural heritage and is closely tied to the celebration of the bountiful rice harvest in San Miguel. This celebration not only honors the hard work of local farmers but also highlights the importance of rice as a staple food in the community. San Miguel’s cultural and agricultural traditions are deeply rooted in its history, making it a place where the significance of rice cultivation is cherished and celebrated.
Kasubaan Festival
- Date: 4th week of August (usually 23)
- Location: Tago, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: “Kasuba-an,” rooted in the Tagon-on term ‘suba’ meaning river, pays homage to Tago’s abundance of rivers, prominently the Tago River. Historically and continuing today, Tago River significantly shapes the lives of Tagon-ons. Utilizing barotos, pump boats, or gakits, locals transport goods from various barangays to the municipality for trade. The ‘suba’ or river becomes the focal point for bartering and trading. The Tago festival derives its name and inspiration from this vital waterway, recognizing the enduring role of Tago River as the lifeblood of the Tagon-ons, connecting communities and facilitating commerce since time immemorial. Kasubaan Festival also celebrates Araw ng Tago.
Sangkaan Festival
- Date: 2nd week of September (usually 8-10)
- Location: Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: The Sangkaan Festival in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, is a celebration of culture, art, and community. One of the highlights of these celebrations is street dancing.
Sarapang Festival
- Date: 3rd week of October (usually 17)
- Location: Barobo, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: The term “Sarapang” in Kamayo culture denotes the traditional tool employed by Barobohanons for hunting and fishing. Originating from the Manobo word “Sapang,” initially used for hunting wild boars, the Kamayos innovated by creating the Sarapang. This three-pronged spear, crafted from Bagakay (a type of Bamboo), is now utilized for catching various fish species abundant in the area. The annual Sarapang Festival in Barobo becomes a celebration, commemorating histo-cultural roots, acknowledging the contributions of the founding figures, and showcasing the local richness in marine biodiversity and tourism potential.
Sayaw Sa Tinuy An Festival
- Date: 3rd week of September (usually 16-18)
- Location: Bislig, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: Bislig City’s major festival, celebrated with great enthusiasm every September 17th, shares the spotlight as one of the city’s co-major events, alongside the renowned Karawasan Festival.
Paladong Festival
- Date: 4th week of August (usually 28)
- Location: Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: The practice of the “ladong” ritual involves the use of a “ladonagan.” A skilled individual, possessing the power to heal, serves as a medium to connect with the spirits, particularly the abian. Through this intermediary, the wishes of clients are conveyed to the spirits, facilitated by an offering.
Sedong Festival
- Date: 2nd week of August (usually 9)
- Location: Lingig, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: “Sidong” in Manobo language translates to ‘ritual dance.’ This ceremonial dance serves as a gesture of gratitude to the anitos, bathala, and other deities revered by the lumads, believed to be the source of bountiful harvests. Additionally, the Sidong is conducted to pay homage to the town’s patron saint, Sto. Niño, blending cultural and religious elements in a celebration of thanksgiving.
Ta’ephag Festival
- Date: 4th week of June (usually June 27)
- Location: Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, Philippines
- Description: Usually these celebrations in Tagbina, the Manobo people have preserved time-honored rituals that infuse a sense of spirituality and community into their farming practices. These rituals are closely associated with activities like opening a Kaingin, rice planting, harvesting, and more.
These festival in Surigao del Sur are not only a source of entertainment but also serve as a platform to preserve and promote the province’s cultural heritage. They provide an opportunity for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the rich traditions and unique customs of this beautiful part of the Philippines. Whether you’re interested in history, spirituality, or simply having a good time, Surigao del Sur’s festivals have something to offer for everyone.
Reader’s Note: If you come across any inaccuracies in these festival details or their descriptions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@surigaotravels.com. We are more than willing to collaborate with you. Additionally, if you happen to have information about the dates and reasons for celebrations for festivals that currently lack this information, please share it with us. Your input is valuable to us.
Bonus table of Festivals in Surigao del Sur:
Check the dates if it happens that you visit Surigao del Sur.