Kannawidan Ylokos Festival

Culture, the acquainting ourselves with the best that has been known and said in the world, and thus with the history of the human spirit.

To promote Ilocos Sur tourism and its trade and industry products, a week-long Kannawidan Ylokos Festival is observed from January to early February each year to celebrate the creation of Ilocos Sur as a separate province on February 2, 1818. Highlights of the festival are the holding of a trade, agri-aqua and livestock fair to promote the One Town One Product (OTOP) Program.

If we stand tall it is because we stand on the shoulders of many ancestors.

Yes, it is wonderful to be an Ilocano—until one comes to Ilocos Sur.

The Ilocano has an elaborate network of beliefs and practices through which he deals with the world around him. These beliefs and practices developed and nurtured by his ancestors, guide him in going through the different stages of life. It is possible, however, that many of these beliefs and practices are gaining less importance among Ilocanos of today. And so I assent — Kannawidan may truly be a way to bring back the old times.

"Agbaliw ti panawen tayo, agbaliw met ti Kannawidan tayo."

Nothing in life is more breathtaking than history and culture—the enlightenment and sophistication acquired through education and exposure to the arts. The art, music, literature, and related intellectual activities are considered as exceedingly pleasing in our native land — Ilocos. Kannawidan provided an opportunity for the elders to pass on folk knowledge and the meaning of tribal lore to younger generations. It also binds its citizens in a unity that transcends personal concerns. 

'Culture' is simply how one lives, and is connected to history by habit.

- Imamu Amiri Baraka

For observers, this festival offers a nostalgic experience. It exhibits a sentimental portrait of our land. Ethnic and national groups are credited with the preservation of unique customs, folktales, costumes, and culinary skills. Kannawidan covers a variety of subject matter, exploring both personal and uiversal themes, depicting the dreams and realities of life, and portraying everyday activities and experiences. As we know it today, rituals are equally essential festive as are music and dances. Hardly any social function is ever complete without a ritual. As in this festival, Ilocanos reveal much of their character, beliefs, and aspirations. For now, I see the true old times of Ilocos Sur in action.