BLESSINGS IN HAPPY FIESTAS
Filipinos are considered to be one of the happiest people in the world. No typhoon, monsoon, flooding, earthquake, tsunami, and landslide can dampen their spirits. They always get back on their feet. All smiles and laughing at the challenges they encounter.
Why is this so? Foreigners have always been intrigued with how Filipinos are able to pull themselves back up, every single time. They wonder in awe how Filipinos can still find reasons to smile despite a loss.
This endearing quality is what sets them apart from the rest of the world. Add to the list is their innate sense of gratitude towards the smallest things, their forgiving nature, and their strong Catholic devotion.
What fiestas are all about
Combine all of these traits, and you have Filipinos planning fiestas in every town all over the Philippines. Fiestas or festivals are a celebratory form of giving thanks to God and the town’s patron saint for all the blessings received for the past year. It is a gathering of devotees who display their acts of faithfulness by taking part in the processions, hearing mass and completing the novenas.
Highlighting cultural heritage and passing them on to the next generation is another reason why there are fiestas. People plan as early as a year before the main event, with a number of programs and friendly competitions lined up. It’s a chance for the townspeople to showcase the best of their talents, from colorful parades, intricate costumes, down to show-stopping song and dance numbers. And it’s always a delight to see younger generation in traditional garb and dance to the ethnic beats.
Another reason why people gather at fiestas is to enjoy homegrown feasts of the town's special delicacies. Having meals together and sharing meaningful conversations forges stronger bonds. It is also the perfect time to forgive, and to move forward and plan for the future together as a community.
Grateful celebrations
Giving thanks for the past year, embracing the rich culture and heritage, and strengthening familial and community ties… these are what fiestas are all about. Be grateful for the blessings, enjoy the sumptuous food, sing and dance all night, socialize and have fun… celebrate the fullness of life through year-round Philippine fiestas.