PH Local Holidays 2025: A Guide to Local Festivities

Experience the Rich Culture of the Philippines: 2025 Local Holidays

The Philippines is a country renowned for its vibrant fiestas and deep-rooted traditions. Beyond the national holidays, numerous provinces, municipalities, and cities celebrate their own special non-working holidays to commemorate founding anniversaries and unique cultural events. These occasions offer a fantastic window into the local heritage.

Here is a look at some of the declared special non-working days for 2025, giving residents the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the celebrations.

First Sas-alliwā Festival

• Date: April 21, 2025

• Location: Natonin, Mountain Province

• Occasion: A special holiday to celebrate the First Sas-alliwā Festival. This event is a cultural gathering that showcases the unity and rich traditions of the people of Natonin. It is a time for community bonding and the celebration of their unique heritage through various local activities.

Founding Anniversary of Rizal, Cagayan

• Date: April 26, 2025

• Location: Rizal, Cagayan

• Occasion: The municipality of Rizal in Cagayan province will celebrate its founding anniversary. This special non-working day allows the people of Rizal to honor their history, progress, and the leaders who have shaped their town.

Kneeling Carabao Festival

• Date: May 14, 2025

• Location: Pulilan, Bulacan

• Occasion: A truly unique and beloved tradition, the Kneeling Carabao Festival is held in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. The highlight of this festival is the parade of farmers and their trusty carabaos. In a remarkable display of devotion, the carabaos are trained to kneel in front of the parish church as a sign of respect and gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

Balangay Festival

• Date: May 19, 2025

• Location: City of Butuan

• Occasion: The Balangay Festival celebrates the rich maritime history of Butuan, which is believed to be the site of the earliest pre-Hispanic settlement in the Philippines. The festival is named after the balangay, ancient wooden boats that are a testament to the advanced seafaring skills of early Filipinos. This event honors the city's heritage as a major trading and cultural hub in Southeast Asia.

These local holidays provide an excellent opportunity for both residents and visitors to experience the diverse and colorful culture of the Philippines. Plan your calendars and get ready to witness these incredible local celebrations.