By Rowena T. Cruz The vibrant welcome arc at the entry point of Lucban sets the festive tone for the annual San Isidro Pahiyas Festival, inv...
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| The vibrant welcome arc at the entry point of Lucban sets the festive tone for the annual San Isidro Pahiyas Festival, inviting visitors to experience the town's unique cultural celebration. (Lucban LGU) |
LUCBAN, Quezon – The iconic annual San Isidro Labrador Pahiyas Festival officially opened today, Thursday, May 8, 2025, as the community launched its vibrant celebration honoring farmers and a successful harvest. The opening ceremonies took place at the town's entry point and included a ribbon-cutting for the Pahiyas Baluarte and Parade, following the May 1 opening of the Tiyangge market, which has already started offering a glimpse into Lucban's culture and heritage.
According to Jenifer Babat, Municipal Tourism Operations Officer, the Pahiyas Festival continues to evolve, and this year, the Tourism Office is eager to highlight attractions like the newly inaugurated Pahiyas Baluarte and Parade route. These additions, alongside the cherished home decorations and lively 'Superstars on Stage' event, create a unique blend of tradition and contemporary experiences for all visitors.
The launch of the Pahiyas Festival included a meaningful blessing for the agricultural community during the 'Misa ng Pasasalamat ng Maggasaka' (Thanksgiving Mass for Farmers). Visitors also had the chance to explore the 'Lucban Buntal Weavers Handicraft' exhibit and the 'Lucban Artists Guild' in Marcos Tigla Park. The 'Pahiyas Tagbuan Booth' on Quezon Avenue also welcomed visitors.
The "Superstars on Stage Year 2" event then brought local performers to the Festival Stage, following the earlier "Grand Finals Tinig-Lucban (Kids Edition)" and the announcement of the "Arko Rikit Pahiyas 2025" arch decoration contest were announced. A large crowd gathered to enjoy the lively performances as the day transitioned into evening.
Looking ahead, the week holds more festival highlights. The Pahiyas Festival program includes the "Lucban Bantay Weaver Handicraft Contests" on Friday, May 9, 2025. Anticipation is building for the grand parade on Wednesday, May 15, 2025, which traditionally draws thousands of spectators eager to witness the elaborate floats, costumed participants, and the towering higantes figures that are a hallmark of the celebration.
Central to the celebration, this tradition involves transforming homes into colorful displays featuring kiping decorations, local produce, and crafts. Families meticulously arrange these elements, creating a unique and festive streetscape. The term "Pahiyas," derived from the local "payas" meaning "decoration," perfectly encapsulates the joyful spirit of this annual event that draws thousands of visitors annually.
The Pahiyas Festival demonstrates gratitude for the harvest, rooted in agricultural traditions where decorating homes with kiping and local bounty is a visual offering of reverence for the land. This deep-seated appreciation remains a central theme. This tradition is also a form of devotion to San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers.
Through the continued participation of families in time-honored customs, this annual event connects today's celebrations to Lucban's agricultural heritage, emphasizing the vital role of farmers in the community and maintaining a strong link between the present and the past. Farming is still a big part of the economy in Lucban, Quezon, underscoring the ongoing importance of a successful harvest.
The bustling Tiyangge market offers a taste of local life and flavors. Here, visitors can sample Lucban specialties like Longganisa Lucban and Pancit Habhab. The market provides a sensory experience with aromas and lively sounds. Adding to the festive atmosphere are the iconic higantes, large paper-mâché figures parading through the streets.
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