KANNAWIDAN Ylocos Festival

Fifteen years ago, a noble idea developed in the minds of a group of civic spirited Ilocanos who wanted to promote cultural awareness and preserve the rich historical and cultural heritage of Ilocos Norte. They wanted to rekindle in the youth and future generations the pride of their heritage. The magnificent idea developed and is now a living reality, KANNAWIDAN, the Iloko Foundation of Arts and Culture.

Ilocos Sur has a rich heritage and unique culture that are to be preserved for the next generations because it is observed that many of these traditions, songs, dances and other Ilocano culture are not familiar to the younger generations already. Instead,children of today are paying more attention to the modern and novelty dances they seen on the television than the traditional ones. There is also a need to evaluate the different products of the different municipalities and the agricultural products and livestock of the farmers and fisher folks. Because of this, the provincial government of Ilocos Sur conceived a festival that will highlight these culture and traditions and attract local and foreign tourists as well. They call it the "KANNAWIDAN Ylocos Festival", it is also a time to commemorate the anniversary of Ilocos Sur as a province since it was separated on February 3, 1818.

Kannawidan became one of the most awaited annual celebrations in the province and consequently improves Ilocano culture. One way to understand community is to look at it as a social construction, in which people create the feeling of similarity based on their culture, thus the starting point of community is the culture (Cohen, 1985).

Kannawidan Festival is also a celebration that lasts from the last week of January up to the first week of February.On the opening day, there is usually a mass held at the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral. It is followed by a procession of the Patron Saints of the 40 parishes and images of Jesus Christ and Virgin Mary around the city. 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 city, including the close family ties among the Ilocanos. This event showcases the deep-rooted religiosity of the townsfolk.

One interesting event of the festival is the annual “Pinaka”contest where locals exhibit their amazing farm and fishery products and livestock. Another activity that catches the attention of the visitors is the gathering at Vigan Plaza Hotel, where Ilocos Sur comes back to the olden times and participants wear their old-fashioned dresses as they party to the tune of old songs and drown in the memories of old Ilocos. Also, a food festival is  held at Plaza Salcedo. There is fireworks display after the meal, lighting up the sky with a million colorful specks and flashes.

The much awaited event of the celebration is The Bayanihan Dance Company, it is presented by world-class performers showcasing the Beauty of the Philippines through dances, music, and sounds. Spectators are clapping with joy because of their great performances, graceful movements, and excellent rendition of songs while playing native musical instruments.

The local government of Ilocos Sur thought of this festival to encourage the younger generations to learn the indigenous songs and dances of the province. Also,this festival reminds us not to forget our culture and traditions. Indeed, Kannawidan is a very enjoyful festival. If you haven't yet experience to join in this festival, well what are you waiting for? Come and join us.

REFERENCE/s:

https://www.ijser.org/researchpaper/KANNAWIDAN-FESTIVAL-ITS-EFFECT-TO-MERCHANTS.pdf

https://www.vigattintourism.com/tourism/articles/Kannawidan-Ylocos-Festival-Pride-of-the-Ilocano-Culture

IMAGES:

ilokano of flickr.com

https://saluyot.wordpress.com/2015/02/02/kannawidan-ylocos-festival-2015/amp