Special Events in Manila

Feast of the Black Nazarene
9 January
The streets of old Manila are flooded by a sea of devotees who try to touch a revered religious statue. Better viewed from a safe distance.
Quiapo

Bamboo Organ Festival
February
The oldest and largest in Asia, this musical instrument was made during the Spanish period, entirely out of bamboo, and it still works.
Las Piñas

Crucifixion of Christ
Good Friday
Next to Christmas, this is the best venue to see how fanatic devotion to religious beliefs can be pushed to bloody consequences.
City of San Fernando, Pampanga

Flores de Mayo
4 May
At first glance this seems to be a parade of beautiful Filipinas, but it is actually a religious procession commemorating Emperor Constantine's quest for the cross in which Jesus was crucified.
Rizal Park

Pahiyas
15 May
Townsfolk commemorate the feast of the patron saint of workers by decking their houses with colourful, edible décor.
Lukban, Quezon

Independence Day
12 June
Rizal Park

Cinemanila International Film Festival
Mid October
Screenings of the best contemporary and classic films from all over the world.
Metro Manila

Giant Lantern Festival
Early December
A competition of bright, giant Christmas lanterns (3-4.5m/10-15ft in diameter) so huge they are mounted on trucks.
City of San Fernando, Pampanga